West Palm Beach March 2026

- Submitted by Kelly Smallridge, President and CEO, Business Development Board of Palm Beach County - IN THE PALM BEACHES Advancing aHigh-Impact InnovationEconomy BUSINESS PROFILE T he Palm Beaches have rapidly emerged as one of the nation’s most attractive destinations for business investment, talent, and innovation. Driving this evolution is the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County (BDB), the county’s official public-private economic development organization dedicated to attracting, retaining, and expanding companies that generate long-term economic value. Founded in 1982 as a not-for-profit corporation, the BDB serves as the official partner to Palm Beach County and state partner to FloridaCommerce and SelectFlorida. Its mission is clear: support corporate relocations and expansions, strengthen existing employers, and help deliver high-quality jobs for local residents through strategic economic development. The BDB provides confidential, complimentary services to companies evaluating growth opportunities in the Palm Beaches. DELIVERING MEASURABLE RESULTS Over the past five years, the Business Development Board has supported more than 140 companies, contributing to the creation or retention of over 13,110 direct jobs across Palm Beach County. These positions offer average annual wages exceeding $80,000, underscoring the organization’s focus on quality employment and workforce advancement.. During the same period, BDB-supported projects generated more than $1.12 billion in capital investment, strengthening the county’s economic foundation. In the most recent year alone, the BDB facilitated: • 21 corporate relocation and expansion projects • 2,623 new and retained jobs • $239.9 million in capital investment • 775,544 square feet of newly leased or constructed space Companies include D-Wave, ServiceNow, HOERBIGER, BioStem Technologies, ADMA Biologics, GummyWorks, NewDay USA, and SV Microwave, to name a few. ATTRACTING AND RETAINING BUSINESS While attracting new companies remains a priority, business retention is a central component of the BDB’s strategy. Supporting companies already operating in the Palm Beaches helps protect existing jobs, encourages reinvestment, and maintains economic stability. The BDB works directly with employers to address workforce needs, site selection, infrastructure considerations, and expansion planning. This work is closely aligned with broader community priorities, including 4 W E S T PA L M B E A C H | M A R C H 2 0 2 6