West Palm Beach March 2026

FOR WHAT COMES NEXT ARegional Roadmap BUSINESS PROFILE T he most meaningful progress happens when communities come together around a shared vision. Over the past year, that spirit of collaboration guided the development of the Palm Beach North Regional Strategic Plan (2026–2030) , a comprehensive roadmap shaped by voices from across Palm Beach County and designed to guide our region’s growth, resilience, and quality of life for years to come. - By Noel Martinez, Chair, Florida Association of Chamber Professionals; President & CEO, Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce - - Photos provided by Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce - At its core, this strategic plan reflects a collective commitment: private, public, education, and civic leaders working together to ensure Palm Beach North remains Florida’s Prosperity Coast®. Rather than focusing on isolated challenges, the plan aligns regional priorities around long-term outcomes that benefit residents, businesses, and future generations. BUILT THROUGH COUNTYWIDE COLLABORATION This effort extended well beyond the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. Local business owners, employers, and community stakeholders from throughout Palm Beach County contributed insight and on-the-ground perspective, ensuring the plan reflects both the day-to-day realities of doing business locally and the broader regional opportunities ahead. Leaders such as Kelly Smallridge, President and CEO of the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County, brought a countywide economic development lens to the conversation, while Michele Jacobs, President and CEO of the Economic Council of Palm Beach County, offered insight into regional competitiveness and the business climate shaping employer decisions across industries. Their perspectives were informed and strengthened by feedback from local businesses investing, hiring, and growing throughout the region. Their involvement, alongside dozens of local business leaders and community partners, reinforced a simple truth: the challenges and opportunities facing Palm Beach North do not stop at municipal boundaries. Supporting a strong local business environment requires regional solutions that are coordinated, inclusive, and grounded in collaboration. CLEAR PRIORITIES FOR A STRONGER REGION The 2026–2030 Strategic Plan is organized around four interconnected priorities: fostering a prosperous economy, ensuring a high quality of life, building a resilient and connected region, and strengthening regional leadership. Together, these focus areas address workforce development, attainable housing, transportation and infrastructure, business growth, innovation, and long-term preparedness. Importantly, the plan is not intended to sit on a shelf passively but rather be an active guide. It serves as a living framework that will guide partnerships, advocacy efforts, and decision-making across 6 W E S T PA L M B E A C H | M A R C H 2 0 2 6