By: Chad Griffin
Beachside bike shops are not the only businesses booming in Greater Tampa Bay. From corporate headquarters to manufacturing, healthcare, information technology and defense, GTB offers a thriving business environment that attracts both large corporations and small businesses.
Manufacturing, Distribution and Logistics
Tampa Bay’s manufacturing sector is a key driver of innovation for various industries, with over 2,800 manufacturing firms employing nearly 62,000 people. The region is home to leading companies, contributing to the advancement of modern manufacturing technology and attracting investment from overseas.
- Global headquarters of leading manufacturing companies such as Jabil, Bausch + Lomb and Bertram Yachts, among others.
- Close to 500 foreign-owned companies representing more than 40 nations having established successful operations in the area.
Life Sciences and Healthcare
The area has emerged as a hub for the state’s fast-growing life sciences industry. Notable corporations have established major operations in Tampa, leveraging the region’s talented workforce, pro-business climate and quality of life.
- Over 7,000 companies supporting more than 131,000 jobs.
- Globally renowned corporations like Bristol-Myers Squibb and Johnson & Johnson, along with numerous other prominent companies in the sector.
Information Technology
Tampa is ranked among the top ten best American cities to work in tech, with a growing IT job market and a significant presence in high-tech establishments. The region’s favorable business environment and strong talent pipeline from area schools have contributed to its appeal for IT companies.
- The area holds 20 percent of the state’s IT positions and is known for its significant growth in the IT industry over the past five years.
Financial and Professional Services
The fastest-growing industry segment in Greater Tampa Bay, financial and professional services businesses have experienced year-over-year employment gains, benefiting from the area’s business-friendly government, low cost of living and quality of life.
- Tampa Bay’s financial and professional services businesses have experienced year-over-year employment gains of 3.9 percent, with an average workforce of 230,000.
- The region is home to Fortune 500 firms such as Raymond James and Franklin Templeton, as well as major operations of global companies including Johnson & Johnson and Citi, which leverage the area’s business-friendly government and high-quality talent pool.
Defense and Security
Home to MacDill Air Force Base and two, four-star Combatant Commands, GTB has developed a $14 billion military industry around cybersecurity, IT, intelligence and advanced manufacturing. The region’s large veteran workforce and specialized education programs support its role as a center for defense and security.
- Tampa Bay boasts one of the largest veteran workforces in the nation, with approximately 92,000 skilled professionals.
- Notable events such as the Special Operations Forces Industry Conference (SOFIC) provide businesses with valuable insights and opportunities through USSOCOM acquisition programs.
Why GTB?
Large Corporate Presence: The region hosts numerous Fortune 1000 companies and offers favorable conditions such as low labor costs, stable leadership and targeted financial incentives, making it an ideal location for corporate headquarters and large businesses.
Business-Friendly Environment: Tampa Bay provides a supportive business environment with collaboration between government, industry and community, resulting in effective development packages, financial incentives and streamlined regulatory processes.
Talented Workforce: The presence of globally renowned educational institutions and a strong university presence contribute to a talented workforce, attracting companies across various industries to the region.
Proximity to Major Transportation Hubs: The area’s high connectivity between Florida’s largest port, the Interstate 4 corridor and access to top-ranked international airports make it an attractive location for businesses requiring efficient transportation and logistics infrastructure.
The Greater Tampa Bay area’s major industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, IT, finance and defense, play a vital role in driving the region’s economy and attracting both large corporations and small businesses. With its diverse business environment, robust infrastructure and supportive community, GTB continues to be a prime destination for companies looking to establish and expand their operations.
Corporate HQ
- Tampa Bay hosts 19 corporate headquarters with over $1 billion in annual revenue, including Fortune 1000 companies such as Raymond James, Jabil, Tech Data and Citi, benefiting from low labor costs, favorable corporate tax policies and stable, pro-business leadership.
