St. Petersburg is Growing
Growth in Pinellas County is concentrated primarily in St. Petersburg and employment increases and rates in the Sunshine City are outpacing those in the region or the state.
Support for Entrepreneurs
City leaders reported on the successes of the Greenhouse, St. Petersburg’s front-door to business growth, providing more than 1,000 business owners and entrepreneurs with the education, resources and assistance necessary in 2023 to thrive in the local economy. Nearly 150 businesses have been accepted to or have received funding from the St. Pete CRA Microfund Program, which serves businesses throughout the South St. Pete CRA.
Within the Tampa Bay innovation ecosystem, 100+ organizations assist entrepreneurs. St. Pete is the anchor of Florida’s Tech Corridor, with the Tampa Bay Innovation Center at the ARK Innovation Center leading the way in the St. Pete Innovation District.
ARK Invest and the New “Carousel of Progress”
ARK Invest CEO Cathie Wood, who brought international attention to St. Petersburg when she relocated her company to St. Petersburg in 2021, discussed
“What we’re going to offer is not only high-end finishes and the latest technology. It will be highly amenitized and driven by the lessons we’ve learned in the hospitality space. It’ll be ideal for employers that are looking to entice their teams to come back to the office.”
400 Central: Redefining Downtown Excellence
Meanwhile, in the bustling heart of Downtown St. Pete, another transformative project is making waves. 400 Central, reaching the halfway mark of its development, epitomizes luxury and sophistication. Rising majestically amidst the city skyline, 400 Central promises unparalleled views, premium amenities, and a prestigious address in one of St. Pete’s premier blocks.
400 Central, which will be the tallest building in Southwest Florida, is being developed by John Catsimitidis’s Red Apple Group New York. The 301 luxury condo site will feature a glass-enclosed Sky Lounge and Observatory; 60,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and restaurants; and 45,000-80,000 square feet of Class A office space. John Catsimatidis Sr., founder of the Red Apple Group, described it as a “wow building” to the St. Pete Catalyst.

Attracting Talent and Investment in the Sunshine City
As these developments continue to take shape, their impact extends far beyond the realms of architecture and design. The emergence of new Class A office space in St. Petersburg signifies broader economic growth, attracting additional investment and innovation to the region. These projects provide opportunity for companies considering relocation or expansion in the Sunshine City to take advantage of St. Pete’s unique position as a premier destination for commerce, culture, and innovation.
Interested in learning how St. Pete helps innovative companies to thrive in our vibrant and authentically warm business community?
Download your copy of our Become St. Pete brochure.



