The Development Group

Building a Brighter Future: A Message From Board Member Chris Idsardi

The Development Group — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 17:44:18 +0000

In 2023 the Board of County Commissioners appointed me to the Hardee County Industrial Authority (IDA) as a board member. As a citizen of the community and with a background in construction, I had an understanding that housing plays a critical role in the economic stability and growth in our community.

A housing study by the University of South Florida and the Florida Institute of Government confirmed what many of us have felt—Hardee County faces a shortage of housing across most categories, driving up costs for both homeowners and renters. Addressing this shortage is essential for our community’s growth.

Partnership and Funding

In 2024 our County Commissioners entered into an agreement with Mosaic, which resulted in:

An award of 81 acres of land to be used for housing
$8 million to be used to “stimulate and support new housing and redevelopment in Hardee County”

To date, the IDA has received the 81 acres of land on Bostick Road and six million of the eight million that was granted.

The property did not have water or sewer available, so the IDA worked with the county to extend those utilities down Bostick road at a cost of $800K. This investment will reduce the cost of each new home by eliminating the need to install a well and septic tank for each lot. These new utilities will also be available for homeowners, developers, and future projects in this area.

Developer Partnership for Bostick Road Project

We, as the IDA board, are excited to announce that we have selected a developer and local building group that will develop and build the homes for the Bostick Road project.

Estimated cost to develop the property, including roads, utilities, sidewalks, streetlamps, utilities, and community parks: approximately $6 million
Developer will provide this funding, allowing the IDA to use remaining funding to create more housing projects
Partnering with a developer allows the IDA to replicate this type of investment with other contractors, jump-starting housing now
By partnering with the developer, the IDA effectively grew our initial six million dollars by another six million

The homes at Bostick Road will be constructed by Southern Homes, based in Polk County, along with Rhino Homes, a Hardee County-based contractor. The project will benefit from Southern Homes’ extensive marketing experience and ensure local tradespeople will have an opportunity to work within Hardee County.

Housing Options and Tax Impact

Our county has housing needs at all levels. The Bostick Road project will have:

3 basic lot sizes: 70, 80, and 90 feet wide and 125 feet deep
A small number of larger lots that make use of the property’s shape
Approximately 90 homes planned
Estimated annual tax revenue: $285K

We are currently working with developers on two other projects that have the potential to add approximately 94 homes. The IDA is also considering other areas of the county where it would be beneficial to extend the water and sewer lines, keeping growth close to community centers and reducing development costs by eliminating private wells and septic tanks.

Why Housing Matters

It is critical that we increase our population so that we can support our schools and businesses. We cannot do that without having a housing solution. A solution that offers various price levels, and enough supply that will help bring down the cost of housing.

– Chris Idsardi

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The Power of Historic Preservation in Economic Growth

Emily Cockerham — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 12:05:55 +0000

In small towns and growing cities across America, economic revitalization often begins with something old–something with history, character, and deep roots in the community. At The Development Group, we believe historic preservation is more than just an homage to history. It’s an investment in the future–an essential component of building an energetic downtown that invites commerce, culture, and citizen life to thrive while honoring a community’s unique and important history.

One meaningful example of this philosophy is unfolding at 122 West Main Street in downtown Wauchula, affectionately known as the Reif Building. Originally built as Hardee County Trust Company, and later home to Reif Hardware, the building has long been a fixture of Main Street. Now, through intentional renovation led by TDG–and made possible thanks to a critical grant secured by Main Street Wauchula–, it is being reimagined as a restaurant space–one that respects its architectural heritage while serving the needs of a new generation of entrepreneurs and visitors.

This project reflects the power of partnership. TDG is proud to collaborate with Main Street Wauchula, whose vision and dedication laid the groundwork for this investment. Together, and in close coordination with the Florida Division of Historic Resources (Preservation) to preserve and highlight key features of the original bank design. In the updated rendering, columns that were previously cut off are now restored to their full height, extending to the ground to honor the building’s original facade. This isn’t just aesthetic–restoring these design elements sends a message: this place and its history matters.

The 122 West Main project demonstrates how historic preservation can be a catalyst for economic growth. By breathing new life into this downtown anchor, TDG and Main Street are not only creating a unique opportunity for a future restaurant operator, but also investing in the broader goal of a walkable, inviting Main Street. A restored building attracts foot traffic. Foot traffic attracts business. Businesses attract people. And people build community.

The potential ripple effects are powerful. When downtown becomes a place where people want to gather, shop, and dine, the local economy is strengthened. Property values increase, new local entrepreneurs see potential, residents take pride in seeing their city’s story preserved while also experiencing progress.

TDG’s vision for the Reif Building isn’t just about bringing a restaurant downtown. It’s about bringing a historic building back to life, honoring its past, and turning it into a place where people can gather, eat, and enjoy community. Through projects like this, and with strong partners like Main Street Wauchula, we’re demonstrating how history and progress are not at odds–but are powerful partners in building a better future for Hardee County.

As we continue marketing this space to potential operators, we remain committed to turning a piece of history into a springboard for future downtown success.

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Denise Grimsley to Step Down as CEO of The Development Group

Emily Cockerham — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 15:46:32 +0000

June 18, 2025

Seasoned Public Servant and Business Leader Leaves Behind a Strong Foundation for Hardee County’s Future

Wauchula, FL — The Development Group (TDG) Chief Executive Officer Denise Grimsley announced at their June Board Meeting on the 12th that she will step down from her role as CEO effective October 3, 2025, following three years of transformative leadership in Hardee County.

A transition plan is in place, and Grimsley will remain onboard as a consultant through April 2026 to ensure continuity and provide strategic support during the upcoming legislative session.

"I remain committed to thoughtful and collaborative transition, and look forward to supporting the success of my successor. The impact of this organization, I believe, in the future will be phenomenal. Thanks to each of you today for allowing me to serve as the CEO for the last three years."

CEO, Denise Grimsley

Denise Grimsley, a fifth-generation Floridian and former state legislator, brought decades of experience in public policy, healthcare, and economic development to her role at TDG. Her tenure as CEO has marked a period of ambitious growth and strategic investment for Hardee County.

"It has been a distinct honor to serve in this role over the past three years. I'm deeply grateful for the trust this Board has placed in me, and the opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated and talented team of professionals in the office, and also what we have found to be a very engaged community. As I reflect on my time here, I'm really proud of what we've all accomplished together."

CEO, Denise Grimsley

A Legacy of Public Service and Local Impact

Before joining TDG in 2022, Grimsley served in the Florida Legislature from 2004 to 2018—first in the House of Representatives and then in the Senate. She made history as the first and only woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee and held key leadership roles in health care, agriculture, and energy policy. She is widely regarded as a statewide expert in health care and was instrumental in the passage of nearly every major health care bill during her last eight years in office.

Her service continued as Vice President and Administrator at AdventHealth, where she led the Wauchula and Lake Placid campuses and helped expand access to health care across the Florida Heartland.

At The Development Group, Grimsley built on that foundation of service by delivering tangible, lasting progress to the community she has always called home. Under her leadership, TDG:

Recruited major employers including Aloha Medical Services, Safegage, and Trussworks, bringing hundreds of new jobs to the area.
Graduated nine cohorts through the Building a Vibrant Community initiative, fostering civic engagement and leadership.
Secured over $11 million in grants to support infrastructure, workforce, and downtown revitalization.
Played a key role in redeveloping properties like the Reif Building and launching small business success stories like Honey Bear Bake Company.
Partnered closely with local, regional, and state leaders to strengthen the area’s reputation for innovation, collaboration, and community pride.

"Ms. Grimsley, thank you very much for your service as a member of the Board and then further as the CEO. It has been a joy to work with you. I have learned some things, and I appreciate that very much. I appreciate the vision that you've brought, the pivot that came to the Board, and actions that were taken with the community."

EDC/IDA Board Chairman, Lee Mikell

A formal search for TDG’s next CEO has begun, with the goal of selecting a candidate by August 2025. Grimsley will work with the Board and incoming CEO during the transition period to ensure continued momentum. Find out more about the CEO position here until June 30th.

About The Development Group

The Development Group (TDG) is the lead organization for economic development and strategic community investment in Hardee County, Florida. Through innovative partnerships, long-term planning, and grassroots engagement, TDG works to strengthen the regional economy and enhance quality of life for all residents.

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Startup Success: Business Resources in Hardee County

Emily Cockerham — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:37:29 +0000

Starting a business is an exciting journey–but it also comes with challenges. In Hardee County, entrepreneurs don’t have to do it alone. One of the most valuable resources available to startups and small business is the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

What is an SBDC?

Small Business Development Centers are a nationwide network of expert advisors and educators who help entrepreneurs start, grow, and succeed. They work in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide no-cost business counseling, low-cost training, and access to vital tools and resources.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your operations, the SBDC offers guidance in areas like business planning, financial management, marketing, and accessing capital.

How Can an SBDC Help My Business?

SBDC consultants provide individualized, high-quality business advising and technical assistance tailored to your goals. Services include:

Startup planning & feasibility analysis
Financial projections & loan packaging
Strategic marketing & growth strategies
Business operations & productivity improvement
Export assistance & market research
Innovation & technology commercialization

From pre-venture entrepreneurs to established business owners, SBDC programs help improve management practicies, increase productivity, and spark innovation.

Local Access Through The Development Group

Thanks to our partnership with the Florida SBDC at the University of South Florida, The Development Group proudly hosts two SBDC consultants from the Heartland region in our office once a month–and more frequently if in person appointments are made. They will come to you! This local access means you can schedule in-person appointments without leaving the county.

Meet your local consultants:

Stacey Dadd — staceyp1@usf.edu | (813) 396-2713
Greg Manning — gmanning@usf.edu | (813) 396-2719

Both Stacey and Greg bring a wealth of experience and are ready to help new and existing businesses succeed.

About the Florida SBDC at USF

The Florida SBDC at University of South Florida is part of a statewide network accredited by the Association of America’s SBDC and funded through federal, state, and private partnerships. They serve a 10-county region including Hardee County and are committed to providing services on a nondiscriminatory basis, with language assistance available for individuals with limited English proficiency.

Whether you’re launching a new idea, expanding your current business, or navigating uncertain times, the Florida SBDC is here to help you succeed.

Learn more and explore resources at www.SBDCTampaBay.com

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The Power of Place: How a Strong Sense of Community Fuels Economic Success

Emily Cockerham — Tue, 27 May 2025 12:15:26 +0000

At The Development Group, we believe that economic development is about more than buildings, budgets, and business incentives–it’s about people, place, and a sense of belonging within our community. In Hardee County, we’re witnessing firsthand how a strong sense of community can become a catalyst for sustainable growth and lasting success.

What is "Place"?

In economic development circles, the term “placemaking” has become somewhat of a buzzword. But for us, it’s personal. “Place” is Main Street on a Friday night, the sound of a hometown band playing at Heritage Park, neighbors rallying to support a new business, or friends gathering at the historic train depot. Place is identity. It’s belonging. And when people feel deeply rooted in their community, they’re more likely to invest in it.

Why Community Belonging Matters

Studies have shown that communities with high levels of civic pride and social connection attract more entrepreneurs, retain more talent, and weather economic downturns more effectively. This isn’t by chance–it’s by design. When people love where they live, they’re more likely to:

Shop locally and support small businesses
Volunteer their time and skills to local causes
Promote their community to visitors and potential investors
Innovate, create, and build for the long-term good

In Hardee County, we believe we’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible. Imagine what could happen if more residents brought their voices to public meetings, if more young leaders chose to step into their calling right here at home.

Economic Development is a Team Sport

Economic wins don’t just come from one agency or initiative. They emerge from collaboration, trust, and shared vision. Whether it’s a manufacturer choosing to relocate here, a healthcare headquarters opening its doors, or a bakery opening downtown, success comes when community members and developers work side-by-side.

Our team has spent the last few years studying and applying the principles from Building a Vibrant Community by Quint Studer. The book emphasizes that economic growth doesn’t happen in isolation–it thrives where leaders build relationships, create civic pride, and involve residents in shaping their future. These ideas have sparked conversations, inspired local action, and helped us to rethink how we approach development in Hardee County.

We’ve created a free, 6-week focus group centered on Building a Vibrant Community that is open to the public. Session 9 is currently wrapping up in Bowling Green. If you’re interested in participating in a future session, please take a moment to fill out this short survey.

We know that the more people who are engaged in this work–from business owners to retirees, students to city officials–the more vibrant our community will become.

Place is Our Competitive Advantage

While larger cities may compete with amenities and infrastructure, small towns like ours have something just as powerful: a connected, committed, hard-working community. That’s our edge. And when we pair that with smart planning, strong partnerships, and a forward-thinking strategy, we become unstoppable.

Let’s Keep Building—Together

As we look toward the future, our focus remains clear: continue cultivating the kind of place where people want to live, work, and stay. We’re proud of the progress Hardee County has made–but we’re even more excited about what’s ahead.

When you build up place, you build up people–and that’s the real foundation of economic success.

The post The Power of Place: How a Strong Sense of Community Fuels Economic Success appeared first on The Development Group.

Aloha Medical Services Celebrates Ribbon Cutting of New Multi-State Headquarters

Emily Cockerham — Mon, 19 May 2025 14:15:29 +0000

Hardee County Business Park — May 7, 2025

On Wednesday, May 7th, Hardee County community leaders, business partners, and residents gathered to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of Aloha Medical Services’ new Multi-State Headquarters in the Hardee County Business Park.

This milestone marks a major step in Hardee County’s ongoing economic growth, bringing over 100 new jobs to the community and reinforcing the area’s role as a center for medical innovation and healthcare accessibility. Healthcare careers offer strong wages, excellent benefits, and long-term growth opportunities–something Aloha Medical Services is proud to prioritize.

Since choosing Hardee County as its headquarters three years ago, Aloha Medical Services has already hired 57 full-time and 18 part-time or special event staff from the surrounding region. The company has invested more than $2.6 million in wages for employees living in or within 20 miles of Hardee County, demonstrating a strong commitment to local job creation and economic stability.

"Today marks a new chapter for Aloha. It is built upon partnership and commitment between Hardee County, The Development Group, and Aloha. This building represents an investment in people, prosperity, and opportunity. When local leadership and private development come together; real, true, meaningful progress takes place in the community."

Sarah Evers, COO of The Development Group

Aloha Medical Services, a non-emergency medical transport company, first broke ground on the project on February 7, 2024. Since then, the company has worked consistently to bring their vision to life. Their expansion into Hardee County strategically positions them to serve Florida’s Heartland region, helping to connect rural residents with specialty care and higher levels of medical treatment across the state.

In addition to its hiring efforts, Aloha has also significantly contributed to the local economy through spending and property investment. The company has paid $147,780 in lease payments for properties in Hardee County and prioritized doing business locally whenever possible. To date, they have spent over $618,000 with Hardee-based businesses for everything from auto repairs and catering to office supplies, lawn care, and professional services like insurance and legal counsel.

At the groundbreaking event last year, Aloha Medical Services owner Jim Roesner emphasized the company’s mission of creating meaningful careers–not just jobs. True to that commitment, the company offers premium benefits, including retirement options, and promotes a culture of skilled, compassionate care in the medical transportation industry.

"The reason why we chose Hardee County as home is because it's similar to where I was raised. From the time that I first stepped foot in your home, it felt like home to me. I had a gentleman open the door for me, a young man that said please and thank you at the cash register. When we started hiring people here, they met our mission and values."

Jim Roesner, CEO of Aloha Medical Services

Looking ahead, Aloha has secured new contracts that will require the hiring of 27 additional full-time employees in 2025, with 25 more anticipated in 2026—all of whom will report to the Hardee County headquarters. These projections reflect not only the company’s growth but its ongoing commitment to making a difference in the lives of local residents.

Hardee County’s partnership with Aloha Medical Services highlights the community’s dedication to strategic growth, economic opportunity, and enhancing healthcare access for residents. Today’s celebration is not just the opening of a building–it’s the start of a new chapter of opportunity and innovation in Hardee County.

For more information about Aloha Medical Services and their mission, visit alohamedicalservices.com

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Falling in Love with Our Community Again: A Recap of The Development Group’s 2025 Annual Meeting

Emily Cockerham — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 18:10:58 +0000

April 15, 2025 // Historic Wauchula City Hall & Train Depot

On April 15, our community gathered in the heart of downtown Wauchula for an evening that celebrated progress, partnerships, and the powerful potential of love for the places we call home.

Held at the Historic Wauchula City Hall, The Development Group’s Annual Meeting welcomed local leaders, partners, and community members for an inspiring look back at the past year and a heartfelt vision for what lies ahead.

The evening opened with remarks from CEO, Denise Grimsley, who captured the spirit of our work with a powerful reflection:

"I'm filled with gratitude for the momentum our community continues to build—together... Our keynote speaker, Peter Kageyama, challenged us to fall in love with our community all over again... Our community doesn't need perfect people. It needs passionate ones. And that starts with each of us—today."

CEO Denise Grimsley

Her message set the tone for keynote speaker Peter Kageyama, internationally recognized author of For the Love of Cities, Peter’s dynamic address centered on the emotional connection people have with their communities – and how this connection can serve as a driving force for economic and social development. He spoke of “love notes” – small but meaningful gestures that show affection for a place – and invited attendees to reflect on what their own love for Hardee County might look like in action.

From placemaking to citizen engagement, Peter’s message resonated deeply with our audience, reminding us that every act of investment – whether time, creativity, or leadership – is a vote of confidence in our future.

Following the program, guests gathered for a reception catered by AdventHealth chef Andrew Hernandez at the Historic Wauchula Train Depot. It was a time for reconnection, shared stories, and renewed purpose – proof that when we come together with passion and vision, powerful things happen.

If you didn’t get a chance to join us but would like to hear what Peter Kageyama is all about… listen to our new podcast episode linked here!

What's next?

As Denise reminded us, “We are the authors of Hardee County’s next chapter.” This annual meeting wasn’t just a look back. It was a call forward. A moment to ask ourselves: What love note will I write to my community?

We hope this evening inspired each of you to see Hardee County with fresh eyes – and to keep building something extraordinary together.

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Why Young Professionals Are Choosing to Stay in Hardee County

Emily Cockerham — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 19:35:47 +0000

In the past, many young professionals in small towns like Hardee County faced a crossroads: stay in their hometown or venture elsewhere in search of greater opportunities. However, a new trend is emerging—more and more young professionals are choosing to plant their roots in small towns rather than leave. This shift is fueled by a combination of economic growth, community investment, and opportunities like the Grow Hardee Scholarship, which all provide tangible support for the next generation.

A Changing Economic Landscape

Hardee County has seen significant economic development in recent years. With new businesses, infrastructure improvements, and job opportunities on the rise, young professionals no longer have to leave to find meaningful careers or a good education. Projects such as the redevelopment of downtown Wauchula, the expansion of industrial and manufacturing sites, and new commercial developments have contributed to a thriving local economy.

One standout example is Aloha Medical Services, which is bringing over 100 jobs to the area, offering high-skilled positions that cater to recent graduates and professionals looking to advance their careers close to home. Additionally, restaurants, retail shops, and service industries are growing, creating a diverse job market for young workers.

The Grow Hardee Scholarship: Investing in the Future

One initiative making a direct impact on young professionals in Hardee County is the Grow Hardee Scholarship. This scholarship program, aimed at local students, provides financial support to pursue higher education, with an emphasis on career paths that can contribute to Hardee County’s growth. Unlike traditional scholarships that often lead students away to large universities in distant cities, the Grow Hardee Scholarship encourages recipients to bring their skills back home.

By offering incentives such as job placement assistance and networking opportunities, the program helps young professionals establish careers in their hometown. Many recipients have returned to work in industries such as healthcare, education, business, and agriculture–key sectors that keep Hardee County thriving.

The long-term impact of this program is especially evident in its reimbursement model. Since scholarship funds are tied to returning and working in Hardee County, recipients must stay for five years to get their educational costs fully reimbursed. By the time that financial commitment is fulfilled, they’ve built careers, personal networks, families, and roots in the community. These formative young adulthood years spent in Hardee create a lasting connection, increasing the likelihood that they’ll stay long-term and raise a family here.

Community Support and Quality of Life

Beyond career opportunities, young professionals are staying in Hardee County because of the strong sense of community and improved quality of life. Initiatives such as the Building a Vibrant Community book study and downtown programming provide networking and leadership development for those invested in the county’s future.

Attainable housing on the rise, a lower cost of living, and the opportunity to be part of a growing, dynamic community make Hardee County an attractive option for young professionals looking to build both their careers and their lives.

A Bright Future for Hardee County

With economic growth, scholarship opportunities like Grow Hardee, and a supportive community, Hardee County is proving that small towns offer different yet valuable and more personal opportunities compared to larger cities. The trend of young professionals choosing to stay is not only a win for individuals but for the entire county, ensuring a bright future built on local talent and hometown pride.

As more young people recognize the opportunities available, Hardee County is set to continue thriving — one homegrown professional at a time.

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Investing in the Future: The Impact of Workforce Development in Hardee County

Emily Cockerham — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:12:23 +0000

A thriving community isn’t built overnight—it takes vision, collaboration, and a commitment to growth. In Hardee County, workforce development is shaping the future by ensuring students and job seekers are equipped with the skills needed to excel in high-demand careers. Through strong Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, industry partnerships, microcredential and digital badge initiatives, and hands-on training, Hardee County is investing in a workforce that strengthens local businesses, attracts new industries, and provides residents with meaningful career opportunities.

Career & Technical Education: Preparing the New Generation

One of the most impactful ways Hardee County is developing its workforce is through Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs at Hardee High School (HHS) and Hardee Junior High (HJH). These programs offer industry-recognized certifications, giving students a competitive edge as they enter the job market or continue their education.

Hardee High School's CTE Programs:

Hardee High School provides students with hands-on learning experiences across a range of industries:

Digital Design: Students gain expertise in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and Premiere Pro, preparing them for careers in graphic design, marketing, and digital media. Certifications include Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design, Video Design, and Web Design.
Health Science Academy: Students work toward Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and EKG Technician (CET) certifications, gaining real-world experience in the healthcare field.
Culinary Arts: Partnering with Hardee Junior High, this program fosters mentorship and career exploration while earning students a ServSafe Certification for food safety.
Agriculture & Biotechnology: Certifications include Agritechnology, Animal Science, Food Safety, and Agriculture Biotechnology, preparing students for careers in agriculture and environmental sciences.
Auto Mechanics & Building Construction: Students can earn ASE Certification in Auto Maintenance and NCCER Carpentry and Welding certifications, paving the way for careers in skilled trades.
Drafting & Engineering: The Autodesk Certified User certification in AutoCAD and Fusion 360 equips students with engineering and architectural design skills.
Business & Accounting: Students gain certifications in QuickBooks, WordPress, and Entrepreneurship, preparing them for roles in business management and finance.
Public Service & Project Management: Students interested in leadership roles can earn the PMI Project Management Ready certification to develop skills in planning, organization, and execution.

Hardee Junior High's CTE Programs:

The junior high school also provides early exposure to career training, allowing students to build foundational skills in high-demand fields.

Agriculture: Certifications in Agriculture Systems and Agriculture Associate prepare students for careers in farming, environmental science, and agribusiness.
Business & Technology: Students can earn certifications in Artificial Intelligence (AI), WordPress, and Coding in Minecraft, giving them a strong foundation in digital tools and entrepreneurship.
Culinary Arts: Provides students with the ServSafe Certification, reinforcing food safety knowledge and culinary skills.
STEM, AVID, & Journalism: Certifications in Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Digital Competency prepare students for success in technology-driven careers.

These programs don’t just benefit students–they strengthen Hardee County’s workforce by providing local businesses with job-ready talent. As industries evolve, CTE ensures that Hardee County remains competitive by equipping students with skills that match employer needs,

Attracting Businesses and Expanding Job Opportunities

A highly skilled workforce is one of the most attractive assets for businesses considering expansion or relocation. Companies like Aloha Medical Services, which recently chose Hardee County for its multi-state headquarters, bring new job opportunities. With over 100 new jobs on the horizon, local workforce training programs will play a crucial role in filling these positions.

Beyond healthcare, industries like manufacturing, construction, and technology continue to grow, fueled by partnerships between educators, economic development organizations, and businesses. Workforce development initiatives ensure that Hardee County residents are first in line for these career opportunities, reducing the need for businesses to seek talent elsewhere.

Upskilling and Reskilling: Preparing for the Future

As technology and job requirements evolve, ongoing professional development is essential. Workforce development in Hardee County isn’t just about preparing new graduates—it’s also about ensuring that current workers upskill and reskill to stay competitive.

Though partnerships with FGCU, SFSC, and local employers, employees can earn microcredentials and digital badges to enhance their skills in fields such as advanced manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and digital marketing. These training programs allow workers to transition into higher-paying roles and ensure businesses have access to a workforce that meets evolving industry needs.

Building a Future-Ready Workforce with Microcredentials & Digital Badges

The Development Group is exploring innovative workforce development strategies through partnerships with Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), South Florida State College (SFSC), and local businesses to develop microcredentials and digital badges. These programs offer flexible, skill-based training that allows students and workers to gain industry-recognized certifications in high-demand fields.

Microcredentials and digital badges are short-term, targeted learning programs that validate specific skills—whether in technology, healthcare, construction, business, or digital design. Unlike traditional degree programs, these certifications allow individuals to upskill quickly, making them attractive to both employers and job seekers.

By working directly with FGCU, SFSC, and local businesses, Hardee County is creating customized workforce training programs that align with industry needs. This approach ensures that local talent is prepared for jobs in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, digital marketing, and other key industries, reducing the need for businesses to look outside the county for skilled workers.

The Power of Community Partnerships

Workforce development doesn’t happen in isolation—it requires collaboration between schools, businesses, local government, and economic development organizations. The Development Group plays a key role in facilitating these connections, ensuring that workforce training aligns with the needs of Hardee County’s employers.

A special thank you to Hardee County Schools for their dedication to preparing students for the workforce, as well as President Hawkins and South Florida State College for their commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education and training programs. By fostering strong relationships between educators, businesses, and higher education institutions, Hardee County is not only creating a sustainable workforce but also building a community where residents can live, work, and thrive.

How You Can Get Involved

Workforce development is a community effort, and everyone has a role to play:

Businesses can partner with schools to offer internships, mentorships, and apprenticeships.
Students and job seekers can take advantage of CTE programs, microcredentials, and digital badge opportunities.
Community members can advocate for policies and initiatives that support workforce development.

By prioritizing workforce development, microcredentials, and industry partnerships, Hardee County is making a long-term investment in its economy and its people. The future is bright—and it starts with ensuring that every resident has the skills and opportunities to succeed.

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In the News: Denise Grimsley in The Herald-Advocate

The Development Group — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 23:29:58 +0000

It’s no surprise that Hardee County residents care deeply—each in their own way—about our community’s future. When we launched Hardee Speaks in 2024, a countywide survey, we wanted to hear directly from our neighbors about what makes this place home—and what would inspire them to stay. The overwhelming response, with more participants than we could have expected, told us one thing: Hardee County is ready to move forward in a way that benefits us all.

At The Development Group, we’re inspired by that vision every day. As the county’s economic development agency, we’re not just attracting new businesses and creating quality jobs; we’re working to inspire economic growth and build a strong community of integrity where people want to live, work, play, raise a family, and retire. This is about preserving what’s special while creating opportunities, so families, young professionals, and local businesses can thrive right here at home.

In Wauchula’s historic auditorium, residents and leaders gathered for our Inaugural Meeting to discuss this shared vision for Hardee County’s future. We introduced our five-pillar strategic plan, a blueprint shaped by community input, which includes housing, healthcare, talent supply and education, transportation and infrastructure, and recreation and tourism. Each pillar is part of a balanced approach that ensures our work supports both the economy and quality of life that residents deserve.

Years of collaboration with local partners have already brought Hardee County to new heights. The Industrial Development Authority’s investments—supported by The Development Group staff—have contributed more than $1.5 billion to the local economy, completed 30 impactful projects, and prepared over 200 acres of business-ready sites to welcome new companies. It’s a vision rooted in the idea that young people shouldn’t have to leave Hardee County to find meaningful careers. With each new initiative, we’re laying a foundation for a community where opportunities and prosperity grow close to home.

One of our most exciting initiatives is the Building a Vibrant Community program—an “idea factory” that brings together locals to collaborate, share ideas, and serve as ambassadors for economic opportunity. These sessions encourage emerging and established voices alike to generate fresh ideas that will strengthen Hardee County’s economic foundation.

Having called Hardee County home for 50 years, I know firsthand what makes this place special. We’re a community defined by strong values, an incredible work ethic, and well-deserved pride in our home. Our location in Florida’s Heartland, paired with easy access to major highways, rail hubs, and seaports, gives us advantages that few other places can offer. With a business-friendly environment—featuring streamlined permitting, workforce training, and targeted incentive programs—Hardee County is truly a smart choice for companies looking to grow.

The best part? Every step we take is guided by the needs of Hardee County’s residents. Together, we’re building a future where students can imagine their careers here, where families stay rooted, and where businesses find a place to prosper. This is our legacy: a vibrant, thriving Hardee County that will stand strong for generations to come.

I invite each of you to stay involved—whether by contacting us to join a Building a Vibrant Community session, sharing your ideas, supporting our local businesses, or simply helping spread the word about Hardee County’s potential. Together, let’s keep building a community we’re all proud to call home.

The post In the News: Denise Grimsley in The Herald-Advocate appeared first on The Development Group.