Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have awarded $255,000 in grants to 20 organizations across Florida. The funding is aimed at attracting new businesses, supporting economic growth, and developing workforce talent throughout the state. Since 2020, Duke Energy and its Foundation have contributed nearly $2 million in grants to Florida organizations focused on economic development.
The grants will support a range of programs designed to help Florida counties compete for business investment and skilled workers. For example, Citrus County received $15,000 to improve its Economic Development department’s website with enhanced mapping tools and resources for digital materials. The North Florida Economic Development Partnership Foundation was granted $15,000 to develop a matrix of grant programs addressing infrastructure needs in 15 rural counties. The Central Florida Development Council also received $15,000 to attract jobs and align workforce investments with high-potential companies.
“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,” said Melissa Seixas, president of Duke Energy Florida.
Sean Malott, president and CEO of the Central Florida Development Council, added: “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 includes various county boards, regional planning councils, and local economic development groups throughout the state.
Duke Energy Florida serves approximately 2 million customers across a 13,000-square-mile area in Florida. The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support funded by company shareholders. More information about these initiatives can be found at https://www.duke-energy.com/community/duke-energy-foundation/Florida.
Duke Energy is among the largest energy holding companies in the United States. Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., it serves millions of electric and natural gas customers across several states. The company is investing in grid upgrades and cleaner energy generation as part of its broader transition efforts.
Further details are available at https://www.duke-energy.com or via their news center online.
