AGP Executive Report

Local Business Networking: Charlotte County Economic Development is hosting a free New Businesses Networking Event (5-7 p.m., June 16) for new entrepreneurs and small business owners, with help from SCORE, the Florida SBDC at FGCU, CareerSource, and Goodwill SWFL. New Florida Laws (July 1): Florida saw about 140 new laws take effect, including changes tied to education, safety, the environment, and a plan to transfer USF Sarasota-Manatee to New College of Florida. Tourism Spending Shift: Small business operators in tourist areas say more Americans are staying closer to home this summer, boosting regional restaurants and local spending. Restaurant Hiring Push: Neptune’s Bar & Grill in Daytona Beach is gearing up for a Biketoberfest 2026 grand opening with an “all positions” hiring campaign and Zoom interviews. Data Center Policy Watch: Florida’s new data-center law is part of a wider national debate as communities push back on costs and impacts from large facilities. AI for Dealmaking: A legal-focused piece warns founders and investors that AI due diligence is becoming a key part of transaction planning.

New Restaurant Opening & Hiring: Daytona Beach’s Neptune’s Bar & Grill is reopening on Main Street during Biketoberfest 2026, with owner Philip Simonetta rolling out a major hiring push for kitchen, bartending, security, maintenance, and event staff. Local Business Growth: A Smoothie King franchisee on Florida’s Gulf Coast says her “small empire” of 11 stores is powered by strong teams and tight bookkeeping, even as rent and goods costs keep rising. Policy That Hits Homeowners: Gov. Ron DeSantis says he’ll vote for the November homestead property tax ballot measure but insists “what the Legislature did wasn’t my proposal,” keeping pressure on the state’s tax debate. Consumer & Competition Watch: The DOJ alleges major egg producers coordinated bids to inflate widely used egg price quotes, a reminder that pricing fights can land in court. Workforce & Compliance: Trump’s labor pick, Keith Sonderling, is expected to shape employer guidance as the Department of Labor weighs enforcement priorities. Civic Tech for Small Communities: Civic Brief launched a platform to make local meeting records easier to find and read, aiming to help residents track decisions that affect small businesses.

New Florida AI Data Center Rules: Florida’s new law takes aim at utility-cost blowups from large AI data centers, requiring qualifying facilities to cover needed infrastructure costs instead of pushing higher rates onto homeowners and small businesses, while still letting local governments control zoning. Local Business & Community: Miami Barber Institute joined a South Florida coalition sending medical supplies and emergency aid to Venezuela after earthquakes, including 20,000 N-95 masks. Small Business Growth & Hiring: GoDaddy’s 2026 “Most Entrepreneurial Cities” ranking put San Antonio on top, highlighting how faster active-business growth and lower housing costs can help new ventures scale—an angle Florida founders will recognize. Legal/Compliance Watch: A Florida-based clinic owner and her daughter were sentenced in a Medicaid fraud case tied to alleged fraudulent claims and upcoding. Business Services: Clio research says many solo and small law firms are using AI, but many lack clear policies—raising risk for firms competing on trust and process.

New Florida AI data center rules: More than 100 laws took effect July 1, including a measure setting statewide standards for large AI data centers and requiring those operators to cover utility infrastructure costs instead of pushing bills onto homeowners and small businesses. Local business impact: The same package also includes consumer-protection changes and limits on local governments restricting certain equipment, signaling a busy compliance stretch for Florida operators. Higher-ed access fight: Immigration advocates are blasting a Florida board rule that bars undocumented students from state colleges and universities, arguing it could cost the state millions and may be legally questionable. Entrepreneur spotlights: Gainesville’s third annual Black Business Expo is set for July 18, and Daytona Beach’s Neptune’s Bar & Grill is getting a new chapter after a local acquisition tied to Main Street redevelopment. Networking tools for SMBs: Follow-Up Now launched a mobile app aimed at helping professionals capture contacts and automate follow-up after networking events.

Business Apps & Networking: Follow-Up Now launched a mobile app in Florida that helps professionals capture contacts, automate personalized follow-ups, and turn networking into lasting referral relationships. Healthcare Innovation: Xeltis says it has hit 50% enrollment in its US pivotal trial for aXess™, a vascular access device for hemodialysis, reaching the milestone across 20 US sites. Robotic Pharmacy Funding: Queue, a robotic pharmacy startup, emerged from stealth with $18.6M in backing and a system aimed at filling verified prescriptions without a pharmacist on-site. New Consumer Rules in Florida: A new state law now requires restaurants to disclose mandatory fees upfront before customers order, with diners largely welcoming the transparency. Data Centers & Local Costs: Florida’s SB 484 takes effect, requiring large data centers to pay their own electric costs and preserving local zoning authority. Property Tax Ballot Fight: A lawsuit challenges DeSantis-backed property tax amendment ballot language as misleading, arguing it advocates for the measure instead of explaining it. Small-Business Climate: More than 100 new Florida laws take effect, including changes affecting homeowners, pets, and education.

New Florida Data Center Rules: SB 484 takes effect July 1, aiming to stop utilities from passing data-center costs (including electricity) to residential and small-business customers, keep local zoning power, require public disclosure of deals, and protect water resources. State Budget Fallout: Gov. DeSantis signed the $117.6B FY 2026-27 budget but vetoed about $810M in line-item requests, including money tied to senior health, food deserts, and a UCF youth conflict-resolution program. July 1 Law Changes for Families and Small Business: More than 100 new laws kick in statewide, including pet-sale protections (financing disclosure and vet records), a “Blue Envelope” program for better autism-related traffic interactions, and updates affecting schools, public safety, and housing. Local Business & Jobs Ripple Effects: A report highlights Disney’s broad small-business impact nationwide, while Florida’s broader economy continues to feel policy shifts. Business Moves: Bright Air Duct Cleaning expands across Tampa Bay; Casella Waste Systems adds leadership with a new COO. Tech/Security Deal: Volaris Group acquired Tampa-based SureView Systems, expanding enterprise security monitoring across physical and cyber operations.

Crypto & Conflicts Watch: A new disclosure says Trump earned over $1.4B from family crypto ventures last year, including $635M tied to “memecoins” bearing his name and $500M+ from World Liberty Financial—raising fresh conflict-of-interest concerns for small-business owners watching Washington’s rules. Local Business Growth: Lost Boy Hospitality launched a public investment campaign to expand its Miami neighborhood bar concept across South Florida, targeting new openings in 2027–2028. Marketing & Visibility: Bluberd picked Greater Orlando as its first market to test a vehicle-mounted mobile digital billboard network aimed at giving local businesses a more flexible ad option. Small-Business Finance Basics: A guide explains how SBA 504 loans work for owner-occupied commercial real estate, including the CDC/bank structure and long-term fixed-rate terms. State Policy Impact: Florida’s Board of Governors voted to bar undocumented students from state colleges, a move that could affect workforce pipelines and local business talent. Tech/AI Cost Relief: Florida’s new law takes aim at shifting AI data center utility costs onto residential and small business customers.

Florida Property Tax Fight: Gov. Ron DeSantis says the November “Save Our Homes” ballot measure isn’t his original plan, as local leaders warn it could cut funding for city and county services if voters approve the constitutional change. New July 1 Rules for Small Business: Florida’s July 1 law slate includes a major consumer-facing shift on AI data center costs—prohibiting utilities from passing those costs to residential and small business customers—plus new rules on restaurant service-charge transparency. Central Florida Banking: Pinnacle Financial Partners names Michael McClanahan Orlando regional president, aiming to grow relationship-driven services for companies and entrepreneurs across its Central Florida footprint. Local Business Growth & Deals: All County Tire & Auto expands into South Florida by acquiring Auto Repair Pros (7 locations), while FixMold Miami rolls out next-gen mold diagnostics and reporting for property owners. Entrepreneurship Spotlight: GoDaddy’s 2026 Most Entrepreneurial Cities report puts Tampa among the top markets, reflecting a broader shift in where founders choose to build. Florida Tech & AI Governance: OpenMatter Network launches a “verifiable trust” layer for secure collaboration and AI agents, targeting enterprise teams that need proof instead of assumptions.

State Budget & Small Business Climate: Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Florida’s $117.6B FY 2026-27 budget, touting four straight years of spending cuts while boosting priorities like education, infrastructure, public safety, and conservation—setting the tone for how state dollars may flow to local economies. Restaurant Fee Transparency: A new Florida law requiring clearer notice of added restaurant service charges takes effect July 1, 2026, aiming to curb “hidden” auto-gratuities and extra fees that frustrate diners. Data Centers vs. Ratepayers: Florida’s new rules push large AI data centers to cover more of their own utility costs instead of shifting expenses to residents and small businesses, while local governments keep zoning and permitting control. Local Growth & Main Street Momentum: Temple Terrace is moving toward plans to develop long-vacant lots into a walkable downtown-style mixed-use area, with nearby shop owners hoping for more foot traffic. Community Business Support: Sarasota County’s “business park” district is facing roadblocks as officials weigh changes that could make it easier for smaller businesses to participate. Workforce & Care Access: Acorn Health expanded autism diagnostic evaluations in Tampa and Orlando, aiming to reduce wait times for families seeking early clarity and next steps.

Downtown Revitalization: Temple Terrace is moving ahead with talks to develop two long-vacant lots into a walkable, mixed-use downtown with shops, restaurants, and gathering spaces—local owners say it could bring foot traffic and new investment. Healthcare Expansion: Acorn Health expanded autism diagnostic evaluations in Florida, adding Tampa and Orlando sites for children as young as 18 months, aiming to cut wait times for families. Small-Business Growth & Access to Capital: Portrait Bank cleared a major step toward opening after receiving its Florida charter, backed by $43M from 256 local investors and focused on serving Central Florida entrepreneurs and commercial clients. Local Business Tech: FixMold launched an AI-powered mold diagnostic and reporting system to standardize documentation from sampling through sign-off across South Florida properties. Real Estate & Jobs: Commerce Bank agreed to acquire Nolan & Associates, adding investment banking capabilities for middle-market clients. Community & Consumer Impact: Rental car AI damage scanners are drawing complaints as customers report surprise bills tied to automated photo checks. Business District Roadblocks: Sarasota County’s new “business park” district is facing pushback as officials weigh rule changes that would affect small businesses and traffic impacts.

Local Grants: Miami-Dade opened Mom and Pop Small Business Grant applications for Districts 5 and 6, with District 5 offering up to $1,500; deadlines run through July 10 and funds can cover equipment, inventory, marketing, insurance, security systems, and minor renovations. Small Business Growth: Pinellas-area agency Gulf To Bay Digital Services expanded its local SEO, AI automations, and web design offerings for small-to-medium businesses. Entrepreneur Spotlight: Delray Beach designer Amanda Perna advanced to a national finals pitch for a $20,000 prize and a FIFA World Cup 2026 Final trip after a zero-waste fashion business pitch. Business Finance Prep: Cal The Bookkeeper urged Florida SMBs to do a mid-year financial review ahead of the Sept. 15 estimated tax deadline. Policy Watch: A new Florida law takes effect July 1 requiring restaurants to clearly disclose extra “operations” charges and gratuities before customers dine. Economic Development: Babcock Ranch celebrated the Curry Commerce Center grand opening, a new 255,000-square-foot flex/light industrial hub aimed at bringing more local jobs and tenants.

New Product Launch: Largo-based JellyFil is moving from development to commercial operations, debuting its first men’s wellness gummy supplement and rolling availability into selected international markets. Digital Growth for SMBs: Gulf to Bay Digital Services in St. Petersburg says it’s expanded its local SEO, website, and AI automation offerings for small and mid-sized businesses. Local Funding for Entrepreneurs: Miami-Dade opened Mom and Pop Small Business Grant opportunities in Commission Districts 5 and 6, with grants up to $1,500 in District 5 and applications due by July 10. Small Business Spotlight: Delray Beach designer Amanda Perna advanced to national finals for a $20,000 prize and a FIFA World Cup 2026 Final trip after a last-minute pitch. Business Costs & Consumer Rules: A new Florida law starting July 1 requires restaurants to clearly disclose extra “operations” fees and gratuities before customers dine. Policy Watch—Property Taxes: Florida lawmakers tweaked DeSantis’ property tax cut plan, carving out school district levies ahead of Tuesday floor votes. Economic Development: Babcock Ranch celebrated the opening of Curry Commerce Center, a large flex/light industrial complex aimed at attracting new businesses.

Property Tax Fight: Florida lawmakers tweaked DeSantis’ property tax cut plan ahead of Tuesday floor votes, carving out school district levies after warnings that local governments could take major revenue hits. Data Center Costs: A new Florida law aimed at stopping data-center utility costs from being shifted to residential customers takes effect next week, but critics flag a “feasible” loophole tied to reclaimed-water cooling requirements. Restaurant Fee Transparency: A new state law kicks in July 1 requiring eateries to clearly disclose extra charges and gratuities on menus and bills, after diners reported surprise “operations” and service fees. Small Business Relief: The SBA opened low-interest disaster loans for small businesses and nonprofits in multiple states, including several Florida counties, tied to a December 2025 drought. Local Business Climate: Sarasota County is revising rules for its newer “business park” districts after concerns about parcel size and how the Live Local Act could be used. Community & Growth: MoAloo Ventures and the SWFL Rotary launched the Founders Table series in Babcock Ranch to connect entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders. Workforce Signals: Coverage notes small business hiring has stalled in May, adding pressure on owners planning the rest of 2026.

SBA Disaster Relief: The SBA opened low-interest Economic Injury Disaster Loans for small businesses and private nonprofits tied to a multi-state drought, including Florida counties Escambia, Holmes, Jackson, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton. Data Center Costs: Florida’s new law requiring AI data centers to pay their own utility infrastructure is being hailed as a consumer win, but critics warn a “feasible” reclaimed-water loophole could dilute the protections. Restaurant Fee Rules: A new Florida law kicks in July 1 requiring restaurants to clearly disclose extra charges and gratuities before customers dine, targeting surprise “operations” and service fees. Small Business Hiring: NFIB reports small business hiring stalled in May, with fewer owners able to fill job openings and fewer plans to add jobs. South Florida Entrepreneurs: FIU’s SBDC will honor Miami-Dade and Keys small business leaders at its “Business At Its Best” awards event. Immigration Impact: Haitian community leaders are pushing Congress after the Supreme Court moved to end TPS for Haitians, warning of major workforce and caregiving ripple effects in South Florida. Local Business Closures: Two Alachua County Popeyes locations shut down amid a franchisee bankruptcy, with one Gainesville site still open. Community & Growth: The Venice Area Chamber named finalists for its Business of the Year awards, spanning small, medium, large and new business categories.

Hiring Watch: NFIB says small business hiring stalled in May, with fewer owners reporting job openings they can’t fill and fewer planning to add jobs in the next three months. Workforce & Costs: Florida’s small businesses continue to cite rising labor costs as a top pressure point as hiring plans soften. Consumer & Community Impact: A Florida State University expert warns data centers could cost ratepayers billions, arguing utilities may pass major infrastructure costs to residents. Local Business Spotlight: The Venice Area Chamber of Commerce released finalists for its Business of the Year awards, including categories for small, medium, large, new business, and nonprofit. Restaurant Shakeout: Two Popeyes locations in Alachua County closed after Miami-based franchisee Sailormen Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing inflation and weak foot traffic. Entrepreneurship & Growth: Breeze Airways announced three new routes from Southwest Florida International (RSW), with fares starting at $69 and service beginning later this year and early next year. Business Innovation: FixMold Miami launched a next-generation fiberglass restoration protocol aimed at improving indoor air quality by addressing deteriorating HVAC insulation. Policy & Competition: Florida AG James Uthmeier issued a civil investigative demand to CVS Health/Caremark, targeting alleged PBM practices that could squeeze competitors and raise costs for patients.

Data Centers & Power Costs: Florida’s new data center law (SB 484) takes effect July 1, requiring large facilities to pay their own power costs, restricting service to major foreign-controlled operators, and adding a consumptive use permit plus reclaimed-water requirements—while preserving local zoning control. Local Business Impact: An FSU expert warns the current utility setup can push massive data-center infrastructure costs onto residential ratepayers, calling it a “wealth transfer.” Legal/Consumer Protection: Florida AG James Uthmeier issued a Civil Investigative Demand to CVS Health and Caremark over alleged anticompetitive practices tied to pharmacy benefit managers. Workforce Watch: Florida’s unemployment rate held at 4.8% in May, with small-business hiring described as essentially flat. Property Tax Fight: A new committee, “Vote No on 3,” launched to oppose Florida’s homestead property tax amendment, warning of service cuts or tax shifts that could hit small businesses. Entrepreneur Spotlight: A Miami entrepreneur says she received a deportation order despite building a salon business—sparking a wave of community support. Community & Training: South Florida Barber Schools held its first graduation in Homestead, marking a new pipeline for local trade careers.