Defense & Homeland Security
Pinellas County has been at the forefront for decades in defense and homeland security to help usher in the next wave of mission-critical technology by offering the tools, resources, and the environment to provide businesses the leading edge in all major military and government markets.
Securing the future.
Pinellas County is a strategic center for defense and homeland security, hosting four military installations—including the nation’s busiest Coast Guard Air Station in Clearwater—and located just across the bay from MacDill Air Force Base, home to USCENTCOM and USSOCOM. This proximity, combined with a robust talent pipeline and advanced manufacturing capabilities, makes Pinellas a magnet for top-tier defense contractors.
With the third-largest veteran population in Florida and access to leading universities and training programs, Pinellas offers a workforce ready to meet the demands of high-tech, mission-critical projects. From aerospace and cyber defense to advanced radar and satellite systems, local companies are shaping the future of national security.
CONTACT US.
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Industry Leaders
Quick Facts
40,000+
Direct and indirect jobs are related to Pinellas defense sector employment.
84,100+
Veterans call Pinellas County home.
4th
Best Tax Climate in the nation is Florida.
3rd
Largest manufacturing base in the state of Florida is in Pinellas County.
Connect with us.
For more information about Pinellas’ Defense & Homeland Security industry, contact:
Scott Talcott, Economic Development Manager.
News & Success Stories
Stay updated on the latest business news in Pinellas County.
Review the Latest News
about Business in Pinellas
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Florida invests in state college nursing programs to address workforce shortages
Ice & Water Supplier Rebuilds and Expands with Help from Florida SBDC at PCED
Business partners Murad Ajaney and Saleem Hussein turned to the Florida Small Business Development Center at PCED for assistance after their business, Dolphin Ice and Water, sustained damage from the 2024 hurricanes. With the professional assistance of business consultant Kurt Forster, they obtained crucial funding to repair equipment, restock inventory, and get back to serving customers quickly, enabling the company to resume expansion plans that will make Dolphin Ice and Water the largest ice producer in Florida.
Pinellas County Business News – January 2026
Start the new year with the latest news for businesses in Pinellas County! Inside, you’ll find feature stories about the benefits of FTZ designation and local companies that are growing with help from our expert team, as well as information on upcoming events designed to help your business thrive.
