Florida has advanced to become the 15th largest economy in the world, according to an announcement from the Florida Chamber Foundation. This milestone was revealed at the Future of Florida Forum and Florida Chamber Annual Meeting in Orlando, where a preview of the upcoming Florida 2030 Blueprint Halftime Report was shared.
“When we launched the Florida 2030 Blueprint, Florida ranked 18th in the world,” said Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Foundation. “Today, we are 15th and gaining ground on Australia. This is the direct result of years of laser focus on free enterprise, principled leadership, smart policy decisions, and business and community leaders working together to secure Florida’s future. Florida’s rise is not just a state story. It is a global story.”
The Halftime Report Overview indicates that since launching its economic plan, Florida has added high-wage jobs and expanded its workforce to over 10 million workers—surpassing the population of 40 U.S. states. The report also notes progress in reducing childhood poverty through initiatives like the Florida Prosperity Initiative.
Sheridan Morby, Senior Research Economist at the Florida Chamber Foundation, stated: “Florida’s economic success is no accident. It is the result of businesses, government, and communities working toward a shared vision. The data show clear progress toward making Florida a top 10 global economy by 2030.”
The state currently leads nationally in several categories including new business start-ups, manufacturing job growth, net income migration, new business migrations, Black-owned businesses, and higher education system rankings. It also ranks among top states for Hispanic- and women-owned businesses and reports one of the lowest state debts per capita.
Florida’s business community is invited to participate in the virtual 2026 Florida Economic Outlook & Jobs Solution Summit on January 29, 2026. The event will feature economists and industry experts discussing trends that impact strategic planning for businesses as economic conditions evolve.
The Chamber Foundation clarified that although recent data suggested Florida had surpassed South Korea economically, South Korea's most current GDP figures have not yet been updated. The organization’s research team will continue monitoring these global rankings.
The Florida Chamber Foundation describes itself as a statewide research group focused on long-term strategies for economic growth and competitiveness within the state. Its work centers around improving talent development pipelines, fostering innovation through technology diversification, enhancing infrastructure investment, promoting efficient governance practices, and supporting quality-of-life improvements for residents.
Companies interested in supporting these efforts are encouraged to consider joining its Community Development Partner Council.