The Future of Florida’s Economy
Runs Through Higher Education

As Florida's economy expands at an unprecedented pace, the link between postsecondary education and economic prosperity is becoming more critical than ever. And while skepticism around the value of a college degree is sparking much debate, the reality remains clear: Higher education is integral to building a skilled workforce that can sustain Florida’s rapid development. The research is compelling and the role of higher education in shaping Florida’s future has never been more significant.

Helios Education Foundation’s latest report, Florida’s Future Billions, demonstrates just how vital postsecondary attainment is to the state’s economic health. The report’s findings show that increasing college enrollment by just 10% could inject over $8 billion into Florida’s economy annually. Similarly, raising graduation rates by 20% could contribute an additional $7.59 billion each year. These are not abstract projections—they represent real opportunities for individuals and communities across the state to benefit from higher earnings, better health outcomes, and increased economic mobility.

Regional Impact: Central Florida, Tampa Bay, and South Florida

The data from Florida’s Future Billions show how education can drive economic gains not only at the state and individual level, but also at the regional level. Highlighted below are the social economic gains across three of Florida’s largest workforce regions:

Central Florida: The report shows a 10% boost in college enrollment in the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford workforce region could result in $762 million in social and economic gains.

Tampa Bay: For the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater workforce region, a 10% increase in enrollment could generate $995 million in returns.

South Florida: With the greatest potential for gains, a 10% rise in college enrollment could contribute $2.475 billion annually in the Miami-Fort. Lauderdale-West Palm Beach workforce region.

These numbers paint a clear picture: education is a powerful driver of economic success.

Social Economic Gains in Florida
by Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA)

Higher Education’s Role in Shaping Workforce Development

For higher education leaders, these findings reaffirm your mission: preparing students for successful careers and contributing to the public good. Florida’s business community increasingly relies on postsecondary institutions to develop a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of industries like healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and technology. Florida’s colleges and universities play an essential role in equipping students not only with degrees but with the technical and critical thinking skills required by today's employers.

The Helios report also highlights the economic gains related to increasing college readiness, particularly in underserved communities, and achieving racial parity in college enrollment and completion rates, which would help to close equity gaps while simultaneously fueling the state’s growth.

A Clear Path Forward

The research is clear: expanding access to postsecondary education is a key economic driver that can benefit the entire state of Florida. The data makes a compelling case that higher education institutions are not only central to individual success but are critical to Florida’s economic vitality. By increasing enrollment and boosting completion rates, we can generate billions in economic returns and foster a more resilient, diversified workforce ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

Download the Florida’s Future Billions report today to learn more about how postsecondary education can have a transformative economic impact on Florida’s future.

Helios Education Foundation exists to support postsecondary attainment for all students, with a focus on low-income and underrepresented communities in Arizona and Florida. Since inception, and driven by our core beliefs of community, equity, investment, and partnership, we have invested more than $350 million in initiatives to improve third-grade reading, increase college enrollment, and boost postsecondary attainment in both states. Learn more at helios.org.

This content is sponsored and provided by Helios Education Foundation, and developed by Inside Higher Ed's sponsored content team. The editorial staff of Inside Higher Ed had no role in its creation.