Gainesville’s industry sectors have grown with the times of innovation and technology. Major sectors include: advanced manufacturing, education, health care, life sciences, software/IT, logistics and agriculture.

The University of Florida (UF) is one of the largest research universities in the country and ranks #14 on the Best Public Schools by U.S. News and World Report. Santa Fe College is No. 1 on the Aspen Institute’s best community college ranking.

The average freshman at UF has a GPA of 4.0, and graduates from Florida’s top-ranked public university are ready to contribute to business success. UF produces 28 percent of all STEM-related graduates of all of Florida’s public universities.

The region has the most business incubators per capita in the U.S. The University of Florida, Santa Fe College and CareerSource North Central Florida offer resources to help startups with training, workshops and mentorship.

Innovative businesses thrive in Gainesville due in part to the area’s supportive business climate and resources available to entrepreneurs.

Through the Transforming Greater Gainesville five-year Economic Development strategy, local companies are powering a multifaceted strategy to create jobs.

The Gainesville Area Chamber, area schools and businesses, and the City of Gainesville work to develop a healthy business climate. The city’s Gross Metro Product totaled $13 billion in 2014.

Because of ample highway access, logistics and distribution companies see Greater Gainesville as a strategic hub for shipping goods throughout the Southeast and the rest of the nation.

Gainesville is home to two of the state’s best medical centers - UF Health and North Florida Regional Medical Center - and a Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Mild year-round climates, six state parks, and arts and culture keep residents active and entertained. Gainesville was named among the three best college towns for a weekend getaway in 2016 by U.S. News Travel.