On May 20, 2025, the Sumter County School Board held a reception for the recipients of the Outstanding Service to Schools award, followed by their regular board meeting. Sumter County Economic Development was recently honored with this award for their support of students and workforce development in Sumter County.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Florida who sustained economic losses caused by the drought beginning May 6. The SBA is offering low-interest economic injury disaster loans. The loan amount can be up to $2 million, with interest rates as low as 4%, and terms of up to 30 years. The deadline to apply is February 2, 2026.
As Florida enters another hurricane season, businesses — especially small and medium-sized enterprises — face heightened risks of operational disruption, property damage, and financial loss. According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses never reopen after a disaster, and 25% more fail within a year if they lack a continuity plan.
Fortunately, Florida offers a wealth of resources to help businesses prepare, respond, and recover. The Florida Division of Emergency Management provides comprehensive guidance through its Business Planning portal, while the Florida Department of Financial Services offers consumer-focused storm preparedness tips.
Florida’s population could grow by 1.4 million people by 2030. Florida Taxwatch examined key trends in population growth, employment, income, GDP and tourism and predicts the state’s economy could hit some headwinds by 2027 before recovering by 2030.
This free tool from SBA helps connect businesses with verified U.S. manufacturers, producers, and suppliers. It’s built to support companies that want to onshore operations, strengthen their supply chains, and source the components they need—all proudly Made in the USA.
On May 20, 2025, the Sumter County School Board held a reception for the recipients of the Outstanding Service to Schools award, followed by their regular board meeting. Sumter County Economic Development was recently honored with this award for their support of students and workforce development in Sumter County.
State-of-the-Art Plant will Increase Capacity to 5.5 Million Gallons per Day
The City of Wildwood hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, to kick off construction of its new water reclamation facility at 1290 Industrial Drive.
SCED hosted their Bi-Annual Manufacturing Roundtable at the Sumter Center of Lake-Sumter College on May 20th. Sumter County manufacturers and strategic partners gathered for a lunch and learn where Team Leader & Senior International Trade Specialist
According to Wildwood officials, the project is expected to bring new dining and entertainment venues to the downtown area. Located a block south of the city’s new Main Street Parking Garage, the Railyard will feature indoor and outdoor areas for the public to enjoy food, drinks, entertainment and recreation.
