SHARE:
Wednesday's Afternoon Update
What you need to know about Florida today
Biotech companies lead venture dollars raised by Florida companies
Florida saw 24 venture capital deals worth $156.9 million in the first quarter of the year. That compares with 25 deals worth $855.3 million in the same quarter a year ago. But the year-ago numbers are unusually high because Magic Leap received $793.5 million in investments in the first quarter of 2016. When comparing first quarter numbers to two years ago, Florida had 17 deals worth $90.8 million. More from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
From Business Florida:
» List of Florida's venture capital firms
» List of Florida's business incubators (sorted by region)
Towns and cities throughout North Central Florida are experiencing growth
North Central Florida is largely thought of as a home to Old Florida’s natural history whose growth is rooted in Gainesville, and whose innovation is fostered by the University of Florida. But the strength of Alachua County runs deeper. More from the Gainesville Business Report.
Move to restrict use of plastic bags spreads to Miami
On the heels of Coral Gables restricting use of plastic bags, Miami city officials will consider a similar campaign in seeking a cleaner environment. In mid-March, Coral Gables commissioners voted to prohibit carry-out plastic bags from stores within the city. More from Miami Today.
Gov. Scott plans workshops to address opioid abuse
Florida Gov. Rick Scott announced steps to begin combating the state’s rising opioid usage cases on Tuesday, but stopped short of declaring a public health emergency as he has done in other cases. More from the AP and WUFT.
UF’s Michael Gannon, who made history lively, dies at 89
University of Florida history professor Michael Gannon, a former priest, an expert on the state’s Spanish beginnings and a calming presence on campus during troubled times, died Monday night, days shy of his 90th birthday. More from the AP and the Gainesville Sun.
Related Florida Trend Archived Content
» Florida Icon: Michael Gannon
Florida Dining
Portuguese cuisine catches on across Floria
While the cooking of Portugal was once forgotten or mistakenly lumped in with Spanish cuisine, that’s no longer true in Florida. More Portuguese chefs and restaurateurs from Orlando to Miami are expanding, polishing and serving a modern and upscale taste of their heritage.
Agriculture
Market Forces Changing Game for Florida Blueberry Growers
Florida blueberry growers are looking at one of their best seasons in recent years, but it might be a last hurrah for some growers, especially small farms. Increased competition from larger Georgia blueberry growers and a rising tide of imported blueberries from Mexico and South America mean the Florida blueberry industry is in the middle of a transition.
» Read more from the Lakeland Ledger.
In case you missed it:
