Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have awarded $255,000 in grants to 20 organizations across Florida to support economic development efforts. The funding aims to help counties attract businesses, strengthen the workforce, and promote technological growth.
Since 2020, Duke Energy and its Foundation have contributed nearly $2 million in similar grants throughout Florida. These programs are designed to make it easier for businesses to operate in the state and encourage job growth in key industries.
Some of the recipients include Citrus County, which received $15,000 to improve its Economic Development department’s website with enhanced mapping tools and resources for marketing materials. The North Florida Economic Development Partnership Foundation was granted $15,000 to develop a matrix of grant programs targeting infrastructure needs in 15 rural counties. The Central Florida Development Council also received $15,000 to focus on attracting jobs and aligning local investments with high-potential companies.
Melissa Seixas, president of Duke Energy Florida, said: “Florida’s economic strength instinctively makes our state a great place to establish and grow a business, so it’s our privilege to build upon these competitive advantages through innovative, strategic resource grants.”
Sean Malott, president and CEO of the Central Florida Development Council, commented: “This grant from Duke Energy will play a critical role in shaping the future of Polk County’s economy. By updating our target industry study, we will gain additional insights needed to continue attracting high-quality jobs, support local businesses and align Polk’s workforce and infrastructure investments with the industries that drive long-term growth. We are grateful for Duke Energy’s continued partnership in building a stronger, more resilient economic future for our community.”
A full list of grant recipients is available on Duke Energy’s website along with further program details (https://www.duke-energy.com/community/duke-energy-foundation/Florida).
Duke Energy Florida supplies electricity to about 2 million customers across a service area covering 13,000 square miles. The parent company serves millions more across several states and is investing heavily in electric grid upgrades as well as cleaner energy sources such as renewables and energy storage (https://www.duke-energy.com/our-company/about-us).
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support funded by company shareholders.
More information can be found at duke-energy.com or through their social media channels.
