Thursday’s Afternoon Update

Florida Trend Exclusive
Florida Trend Publisher named President

Florida Trend is pleased to announce that Publisher David Denor will be adding president to his title. Since taking over as publisher in 2019, Denor has led Florida Trend to record-setting growth in both business revenue and profit. He has continued to cultivate the brand’s significance across the state, build upon the organization’s unquestioned editorial integrity, created new custom content and exclusive event divisions and continued to grow and advance the publication’s digital offerings. More from Florida Trend.

Florida restaurant workers get new mental health program via Florida Tech

Florida Tech and the Southern Smoke Foundation have partnered to offer free telehealth therapy to food and beverage workers. The "Behind You" initiative provides up to 20 no-cost counseling sessions for those in the industry experiencing hardship. Florida is the 13th state to join this program, expanding mental health support to a vital workforce. More from Florida Today.

Naples angel investors offer startups more than money

In September, Tamiami Angel Funds marked its 100th investment in a total of 48 companies since it began 17 years ago. It remains the largest member-managed angel fund in Florida, offering key support for innovative startup companies. Known as angel investors by trade, TAF members pool their own money and business expertise, using it to back young companies in a competitive process often likened to the television show “Shark Tank.” More from Gulfshore Business.

South Florida job fair offers hope as hiring challenges persist for recent graduates

Job seekers in South Florida found new opportunities at a local job fair as hiring challenges continue to impact recent graduates and experienced workers alike. The Federal Reserve recently reported that recent graduates are bearing the brunt of current market shifts, making it particularly difficult for new degree holders to find employment. More from WPTV.

Lawsuit could halt planned Orange County Convention Center expansion

An Atlanta developer is seeking to halt a planned $560 million expansion to the Orange County Convention Center until the county builds a highway interchange promised nearly 30 years ago. Universal City Property Management filed a lawsuit late last month in Orange County Circuit Court, citing land covenants attached to a 1998 sale of 230 acres to the county. The county bought the land to expand the convention center amid a nationwide race to be a leader in hosting business meetings. More from the Orlando Sentinel.

Meet the demand for EV charging without government subsidies

Until recently, many private and public entities were often turning to subsidies to help build out the charging infrastructure required to meet this demand. Billions of dollars flowed from the federal government for EV charging stations throughout the country. However, the EV charging market in Florida has always been led by the private sector, and continues to accelerate. [Sponsored report]

Florida Trend Mention

Florida Rural Economic Development Summit 2025 We’re thrilled to invite you to the upcoming 2025 FREDA Rural Summit, where this year’s theme – Rural Florida: The Future is NOW! – sets the tone for forward-focused conversations, cutting-edge strategies, and meaningful collaboration. You do not want to miss what has become Rural Florida's Signature event! Register for the event at Rural Summit Registration.