The City of Sarasota’s Office of Economic Development (OED) drives inclusive, citywide growth through strategic planning, redevelopment, and public-private collaboration. We manage key revitalization projects, support local businesses, and oversee city-owned properties to maximize community impact.
From business incentives and workforce training to neighborhood improvement initiatives, OED is committed to creating jobs, attracting investment, and building a resilient Sarasota for all.
What We Do?
Revitalization & Redevelopment
We lead redevelopment efforts in priority areas—such as the Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) and Downtown Improvement District(DID)—to strengthen neighborhoods and spark economic growth.
Public-Private Partnerships
OED brings together businesses, nonprofits, and government partners to deliver impactful projects that enhance infrastructure, public spaces, and community assets.
Marian Anderson Place Redevelopment
First Street - Attainable Workforce Housing Project
Business Incentives & Support
We can offer a range of business incentives and support, including tax incentives, grants, workforce development, and assistance with site selection and permitting. We help businesses grow and expand by providing resources for job creation, financial support, and collaboration opportunities with local educational institutions.
City Property Stewardship
We manage city-owned real estate with a focus on long-term community and economic value—aligning public assets with Sarasota’s growth goals.
For businesses and individuals interested in learning more about the city's economic development initiatives, programs, or seeking assistance, the OED serves as a valuable resource and point of contact.
Marketing Analysis & Visioning
The City of Sarasota’s Office of Economic Development has completed a comprehensive Economic Development Market Analysis & Visioning initiative to guide future planning. This effort analyzes local market conditions, demographic trends, and community input to identify strategic opportunities and address economic challenges. Key recommendations focus on business retention, branding, planning, and resilience—framed around the core drivers of economic development: markets, land, labor, capital, and regulation.
Economic Market Analysis and Visioning for the City
City of Sarasota Business & Commercial Areas
Our Community Partners & Resources
Sarasota County Government
Sarasota County Government serves the community by providing essential services, maintaining public infrastructure, and supporting a high quality of life. Guided by elected leaders, the County oversees areas such as public safety, parks, transportation, environmental protection, and long-term planning. Its mission is to deliver efficient, transparent, and responsive governance to residents and visitors
Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County
The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Sarasota County is a public-private partnership comprised of dedicated business and government leaders working together to grow a more diverse and resilient Sarasota County economy. The EDC is the designated economic development partner for Sarasota County, the Cities of North Port, Venice, and Sarasota and the Town of Longboat Key.
The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce (GSCC)is a major force in our community's economic prosperity and outstanding lifestyle. An award-winning not-for-profit membership organization, the Chamber provides the leadership to achieve a diverse balanced economy that enhances the quality of living and working in greater Sarasota.
Visit Sarasota
Visit Sarasotapromotes our region as a top travel destination, helping attract visitors to enjoy our beaches, arts, culture, dining, and events. By encouraging tourism, we support local businesses, create jobs, and boost the local economy.
CareerSource of Suncoast Florida
CareerSource Suncoast is a workforce development organization that connects job seekers, employers, and training opportunities across the Suncoast region of Florida. They provide services such as career counseling, job placement, skills training, and recruitment assistance to help individuals succeed in their careers and support local businesses in finding qualified talent. Their goal is to strengthen the regional economy by empowering individuals and enhancing the workforce.
SCORE of Manasota - Serving Sarasota County
Service Corps of Retired Executives - SCORE Manasota is a nonprofit organization that provides free, confidential mentoring and educational workshops to small business owners in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The Manasota Chapter connects experienced business professionals with entrepreneurs to offer guidance on business planning, marketing, financial management, and more. SCORE Manasota is dedicated to supporting local businesses and promoting economic growth across the region.