What is a Cluster? Cluster Video: ED Rocks 2006
A cluster is a network of like businesses, plus the suppliers and educators that serve those businesses. Emerging clusters identified in Sarasota County include: Creative Services; Life & Environmental Sciences; Specialty Manufacturing; Healthcare Simulation; Financial Services and Business Climate Work Group. These clusters were selected for special focus because they already have a foothold in the local market; capitalize on emerging technologies; and tend to pay higher wages. Cluster Co-Chair Meeting
They also tend to be “value-added,” meaning they add some marketable aspect to the product or service and then export it beyond the county, bringing new wealth into the community.
"We've been able to involve more people in economic development
to support existing businesses and help entrepreneurs flourish."
Shannon Staub
Sarasota County Commissioner
Chair, Tourism and Economic Development Board
Get involved
There has never been a better opportunity for community-minded, forward- thinkers to be involved in shaping Sarasota County’s future. Motivated volunteers are creating dynamic initiatives to help grow their “clusters” of related and interdependent business sectors.
Contact Diane Andrews at the EDC by phone: 309.1200, ext 201 or e-mail: dandrews@edcsarasotacounty.com. Join your colleagues in this grassroots network who are working to attain a sustainable economy and environment!
Cluster Co-Chairs: Sarah Lansky, Dave Ferguson, Rich Powers,
Beth Ebersole, Brenda Brouillette, Ken Shelin, Teri Hansen
Cluster Brochure
Upcoming Cluster Meetings and Events
Solutions