Foreign firms looking to do business in Florida or the greater eastern US have a clear alternative in Polk County.

Ideally situated along the I-4 corridor between Tampa and Orlando, Polk County has the best of both worlds: unparalleled access to multimodal transportation, while at the same time offering a lower cost of living 10.5 percent below the national average, as well as lower operating costs for businesses—and an abundant, highly skilled workforce.

Businesses operating in the region have access to two major international airports; 15 deepwater seaports–including two less than an hour away each, Port Tampa Bay and Port Manatee; CSX rail; and excellent roadways and Interstate highways.

Polk County is located within Foreign Trade Zone No. 79, which assists companies by streamlining the process and minimizing the costs associated with qualified importing, exporting, manufacturing and distribution activities.

The Central Florida Development Council in Polk County focuses on companies in the technology, aviation, logistics and manufacturing industries considering investing into the United States. The non-profit organization responsible for recruiting new businesses and helping existing businesses expand, particularly supports global trade opportunities for firms looking to import to or export from the region–or anywhere within the eastern United States.

The council also actively supports the efforts of institutions of higher learning for collaboration and international studies, in addition to an international high school slated to open in 2018. Polk County is part of the high-tech I-4 corridor, anchored by STEM-focused Florida Polytechnic University.

Established in 1985, the mission of the CFDC is to grow Polk County’s economy based on high-skill, higher-wage sustainable businesses. The mission is to help develop a community of prosperity where every citizen has the opportunity to earn a higher-level wage.

From its talented workforce to its strategic geographic location, Polk County offers the ideal conditions for businesses to thrive. Sound like the place your business should be? Visit www.cfdc.org.