Columbia County Economic Development

05/25/2026

Today we remember the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

Memorial Day is more than a long weekend. It's a moment to pause and honor those who never came home, and the families who carry that loss every day.

We're grateful for the freedoms their sacrifice made possible, and proud to call Columbia County home to so many who continue to honor that legacy.

05/20/2026

Today, members of our Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) network gathered for a Lunch and Learn. This new initiative brings local business representatives together in a relaxed setting to network, share what's happening around town, discuss challenges, and brainstorm solutions.

Today's conversation exceeded expectations, and we're already looking forward to next quarter's meeting.

A big thank you to Matthew Smith, Rebecca Steedley, Dennis Rivera, Resa Morris, and Jarrod Urrely for being part of the conversation.

Want to be part of the next one? Reach out to Columbia County Economic Development to learn more about the BRE network.

04/22/2026

This week, our very own Jennifer Daniels joined The Gateway Connection podcast to talk all things economic development in Columbia County. From what makes our community an ideal place to invest to the strength of our workforce and emerging opportunities, it's a great conversation you won't want to miss!

Listen to the full episode here: https://lnk.bio/gatewaychamber

We’re excited to share the second episode of our podcast, The Gateway Connection, presented by Security Safe Company! 🎙️

In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Daniels, Columbia County Economic Development Director, to talk about what makes Columbia County a premier place to invest, how we’re building a strong workforce, and the many opportunities available throughout our community.

Check it out, and be sure to like, share, and subscribe as we continue to drop new episodes biweekly.

A special thank you to The Rook for providing an incredible space to record!

👉 Listen to the podcast here: https://lnk.bio/gatewaychamber

🔐 Learn more about Security Safe here: https://bit.ly/4mdmlZQ

04/16/2026

Columbia High School dominated the SkillsUSA Florida State Competition — with three state championships across the welding and drone programs, plus multiple runner-up and third-place finishes!

Four CHS students are now headed to the SkillsUSA Nationals in Atlanta, June 1-6! 🚀
This is workforce development in action — real students, real skills, real careers fueling Columbia County's economic future.

Read more: https://edcolumbiacountyfl.com/columbia-high-welding-and-drone-programs-strike-gold/

03/09/2026

Scrappy Girl Quilts & Fabric is one of 50+ stores across the Sunshine State participating in the All Florida Shop Hop — a two-month sewing and quilting shopping event running now through April 30th.

Stop by to get your passport stamped, pick up a free thank-you gift, browse exclusive fabrics, and enter to win prizes from generous sponsors. It's a great reason to visit Lake City and explore what our local small businesses have to offer.

Store Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 9 AM – 4 PM
Location: 1686 SE Baya Dr, Ste 103, Lake City, FL 32025
Phone: 386-308-3195

Learn more about the All Florida Shop Hop at allfloridashophop.com, and show some love to Scrappy Girl Quilts & Fabric at scrappygirlquilts.com.

03/05/2026

We recently hosted a Healthcare Career Cafe, connecting students with local employers like HCA Florida Healthcare, ClearSky Rehabilitation Hospital, and CareerSource North Central Florida!

Students got face-to-face time with healthcare professionals to explore job opportunities and career pathways right here in our community. A big thank you to our employer partners!

03/03/2026

Big things are happening at The Woods on Branford Highway.

A brand new 4,000-square-foot event venue expects to open at the end of May, bringing conference and event space to our community that can accommodate up to 650 guests. This expansion joins an already popular destination for skating, pickleball, and outdoor family fun.

More venue space means more events, more visitors, and more opportunities for surrounding businesses to benefit. The Woods is investing in our community, and that investment deserves our support.

Whether you are planning a corporate meeting, a community gathering, or a private celebration, keep The Woods on your radar!

02/27/2026

Career & Technical Education Month wrapped up strong with our largest Career Cafe yet! 12 local employers connected with 27 young people to discuss careers in hospitality, culinary arts, manufacturing, the arts, and government service.

Career Cafes are continuing due to growing demand. Want to get involved or learn more? Contact Van Brown at 386-758-3355, Angela Coppock at 386-758-4877, or Tiara Jernigan at 386-758-4878.

02/18/2026

We recently hosted our Career Cafe, bringing together CareerSource, AgroLiquid, and Atris to speak with about 25 young people about exciting career opportunities in agriculture and technology. Events like these are helping connect the next generation with the industries shaping our community's future. We're grateful to our partners for investing their time and knowledge in our youth!

01/30/2026

It's the most wonderful time of the year!