Welcome to Bay County, Florida!

Bay County is located in the heart of Florida’s Great Northwest overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Along with its world-renowned beaches, Bay County boasts an educated and enthusiastic workforce which creates a wonderful business environment.

To find out more information about the exciting opportunities Bay County has to offer, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.

2009 Community Impact Award Applications Available

The EDA is now accepting award applications from businesses that have made significant contributions to Bay County’s economy and the local community. The winner will be recognized by Elizabeth Walters, chairperson of the EDA, at First Friday on September 4, 2009 to kickoff the Chamber’s Annual Industry Appreciation Celebration.

Companies are encouraged to nominate themselves or other businesses by completing a nomination form, available for download in the link below. Completed applications must be received by the EDA no later than 4 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2009 to be considered. For more information, call 215-3760 or e-mail leigh@baychamberfl.com.

2009 Community Impact Award Application

The Community Impact Award was created by the EDA in 2007 to recognize companies for their continuing contributions to economic development in Bay County and for their outstanding work in community service. The Bay County Chamber of Commerce’s Industry Appreciation Celebration is a fun-filled month designed to celebrate existing businesses in appreciation for their involvement in the community and highlight the economic development role that they play.

 

 

Meet the New Executive Director of the Bay County Economic Development Alliance

The Bay County Economic Development Alliance (EDA) is pleased to announce the hiring of the new executive director, Janet Watermeier. Watermeier has over 15 years of experience in the private and public sectors and brings an impressive record of achievement to the EDA.

Watermeier will be the county’s primary economic development professional charged with leading Bay County’s successful efforts to attract new businesses and industries, sustain and grow existing businesses and industries and coordinate efforts with regional and state economic development entities.

Watermeier served as the economic development director for Lee County, FL for seven years. During that time, she facilitated the creation of nearly 5,000 jobs in 105 target industry expansion and location projects producing a combined annual economic impact of over $350 million. She served as chair of the Airport Special Management Committee as the Southwest Florida International Airport grew in its $470 million expansion. Her service on the committee allowed her to be instrumental in the economic development efforts associated with the industrial and technology parks around the newly expanded airport.

“She is passionate about Bay County and committed to the economic growth in which our community expects from their economic development organization,” said Elizabeth J. Walters, chair of the EDA board of directors. “We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Watermeier at one of the most opportune times in Bay County’s history. This will be a remarkable time for our community.”

Watermeier’s responsibilities will include leading strategic planning and marketing efforts, team-building between elected and appointed officials and promoting Bay County as a desirable business location.

Click here to view Watermeier’s resume.

EDA Funding Partners & Enterprise Bay Members:

235 West 5th Street · Post Office Box 1850 · Panama City, Florida 32401
TF 1.888.Bay.Site · P (850)785-5206 · F (850)763-6229

© 2008 Bay County Economic Development Alliance