Florida CEOs Show Strong Confidence In Economy
Business leaders remain confident in the state’s outlook, with steady hiring and growth expectations pointing to continued momentum in Florida.
ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida business leaders are signaling strong confidence in the state’s economy, with capital investment expectations reaching a record high, according to a new survey from The Florida Council of 100.
The group’s Q1 2026 CEO Economic Outlook Index measured 98, based on responses from 111 executives from the state’s largest employers. That remains well above the national index score of 89 and reflects expectations for sales, capital investment and hiring over the next six months. The findings reinforce Florida’s position as a national destination for companies looking to invest, scale and grow, the council said.
The most notable shift came in capital spending. The capital expenditure subindex rose to 91 from 88, the highest level since the council began tracking the data. The increase points to continued investment in expansion, infrastructure and innovation across the state.
“Florida CEOs are betting on the state’s future through continued investment and expansion,” said George LeMieux, chair of The Florida Council of 100. “That confidence reflects the strength of Florida’s business environment and long-term economic outlook.”
While expectations for sales and employment eased slightly compared with the previous quarter, overall sentiment remained strong. The employment subindex registered at 95, far exceeding the national score of 50, signaling continued hiring confidence among Florida’s largest employers.
“What we’re seeing is alignment among Florida’s leading CEOs around continued investment and growth,” said Mike Simas, president and CEO of The Florida Council of 100. “When that many business leaders are moving in the same direction, it’s a strong signal about where the economy is heading.”
The Florida Council of 100, a private, nonpartisan group of business leaders, conducts the quarterly index to gauge economic sentiment and track expectations shaping the state’s economy. The Q1 survey was conducted from March 11 to March 18.
Source: The Florida Council of 100
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