Monday's Afternoon Update

What you need to know about Florida today

| 12/12/2016

Florida's economy grows, but not enough to avoid budget woes

Preliminary forecasts show Florida's economy is growing, but probably not enough to solve the state's looming budget constraints. State economists are meeting Monday to draw up forecasts to predict how much the state will collect in taxes. More from the AP.

Venture capital funding better than bank loans for small businesses

Investment from venture capital appears to help new startup businesses grow and boost entrepreneurship better than funding from bank loans, according to a new study by researchers at Florida Atlantic University, York University and the University of Hong Kong. More from Florida Small Business.

Orlando Tech still seeks new director

Hiring a replacement for Orrett Davis, former head of the Orlando Tech Association, a nonprofit that encourages tech and startup businesses, has proven difficult for the group. More from the Orlando Sentinel.

Republican lawmakers have big plans for Florida's Constitution

For the first time in 20 years, Florida embarks on a constitutionally mandated update of the state Constitution next year and, if Florida's top Republican officials have their way, they will use the process to overturn the most controversial rulings of the state's high court. More from the Times/Herald.

Small Business Advice
Why it's important to do strategic planning before budgeting

This time of year, firms are either starting or finalizing their budgets for the next year. Many small businesses go through this process so they can measure how effectively they are accomplishing their financial goals, but they should never tie their budgets into a strategic plan. More from Jerry Osteryoung.

Florida Small Business
Florida SBDC Report: State of Florida's Small Businesses

The Florida SBDC Network, the state's principal provider of business assistance and thought leader for small business, is pleased to announce the release of its second annual State of Small Business Report: Small Business and Its Impact on Florida.

» Read the full report here.

Sports Business
Building on Tradition

St. Lucie County wants $20 million from the state to carry out a $55-million renovation of the ballpark, which is home to Mets spring training and the minor league St. Lucie Mets. The Mets would contribute $2 million a year as part of a 25-year agreement with the county.