Posted: September 23, 2025
Florida’s Great Northwest (FGNW) Foundation is excited to announce that it has been chosen as one of 20 economic development organizations statewide to receive funding through the Duke Energy and Duke Energy Foundation’s 2025 Economic Development Grant Program. The $255,000 in total funding was awarded to support programs that enhance Florida’s ability to attract new businesses, strengthen the workforce, and fuel long-term economic growth.
The funding will directly bolster the Northwest Florida Career Pathways platform—an interactive tool developed to empower residents, students, and job seekers with valuable insights into in-demand careers across the region. The platform helps bridge the gap between regional workforce needs and available talent by providing data on industry demand, education pathways, and local opportunities.
“We are honored to be included in this year’s cohort of grant recipients,” said Jennifer Conoley, President & CEO of FGNW Foundation. “This support from Duke Energy Foundation allows us to deepen our impact on Northwest Florida’s economic future—enhancing our region’s business climate, aligning talent development with employer needs, and positioning our communities for success in high-growth industries.”
Since 2020, Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation have invested nearly $2 million in economic development initiatives across Florida. This year’s grant program targets initiatives like digital infrastructure upgrades, workforce development, marketing, and industry alignment—ensuring communities across the state are equipped to compete globally. The 2025 economic development grants are a continuation of Duke Energy’s commitment to fostering a resilient and inclusive future for communities throughout the state.
Florida’s Great Northwest is the regional economic development organization for the 13-county region of the Florida Panhandle. The organization promotes Northwest Florida for economic growth and diversification, advocates for economic development issues that affect the region, and collaborates to improve regional competitiveness. Beyond our beaches, Northwest Florida offers business competitive, bottom-line advantages in workforce training, upgraded infrastructure, access to a host of defense assets and a diverse base of industries that already call the region home. The FGNW Foundation supports FGNW activities, including Northwest Florida FORWARD, a regional strategy for economic transformation that will drive economic vitality and growth for Northwest Florida. For more information, visit FloridasGreatNorthwest.com and find us on social.
