Close
SelectFlorida President and CEO Dr. Matt Swanson, left, and Florida Polytechnic University President Dr. Devin Stephenson sign an agreement on Monday, Nov. 2, establishing a framework to help Florida businesses expand internationally and encourage companies to expand operations in the state.

Florida Poly and SelectFlorida forge alliance to advance Florida’s global economic competitiveness

November 6, 2026

By Erica Johnson

Florida Polytechnic University and SelectFlorida have established a strategic partnership to attract high-value investment, advance technology infrastructure and expand Florida’s competitiveness in fast-growing commercial sectors.

The agreement, signed on Monday, Nov. 2, connects Florida Poly’s technical expertise, engineering talent and global partnerships with SelectFlorida’s international investment networks to advance Florida’s economic development priorities.

The collaboration will connect prospective investors and corporate partners with Florida’s growing commercial atmosphere. Florida Poly will contribute applied industry knowledge and talent development in critical sectors, including aerospace, advanced manufacturing, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, semiconductors and quantum technologies.

“This partnership underscores Florida Poly’s vital role in shaping Florida’s high-tech future,” said Dr. Devin Stephenson, Florida Poly’s president. “Our academic expertise, engineering talent and collaborative partnerships are valuable assets to the state’s competitiveness. We are committed to advancing Florida’s leadership in thriving technology industries and contributing to the state’s long-term prosperity.”

SelectFlorida, Florida’s international commerce organization under the Florida Department of Commerce (FloridaCommerce), advances the state’s fiscal priorities through targeted investment attraction, international business partnerships, trade support for small businesses and the promotion of Florida as a premier destination for top-tier enterprises.

“Attracting high-value companies across Florida’s target industries requires partners that are engaged and active in Florida’s economy, including our universities,” said Matt Swanson, President and CEO of SelectFlorida. “Companies looking to start and grow their business need more than the right location – they need the skilled talent that will support their expansion. Through this strategic partnership between SelectFlorida and Florida Poly, we are expanding Florida’s ability to support business and industry growth, introducing prospective employers to one of Florida’s leading institutions for developing STEM talent for high-tech industries.”

Other potential initiatives include industry forums, research collaboration and international leadership missions focused on advancing academic excellence, expanding collaborative partnerships and supporting Florida’s financial development priorities. As the state’s only university exclusively dedicated to STEM, Florida Poly contributes technical expertise and engineering capabilities to Florida’s growing economy. “Florida Poly and SelectFlorida share a common vision for advancing the state’s strategic interests,” said Mustapha Achoubane, senior global affairs officer at the University. “This alliance serves as a platform to position Florida at the forefront of global economic competitiveness.”

Leaders from SelectFlorida and Florida Polytechnic University standing together after the signing of a partnership agreement to help businesses expand internationally and encourage companies to move to Florida.
SelectFlorida President and CEO Dr. Matt Swanson, center left, and Florida Polytechnic University President Dr. Devin Stephenson, center right, stand with representatives from both organizations. Swanson and Stephenson signed an agreement on Monday, Nov. 2, to help businesses expand internationally and encourage companies to move into the state.

Contact:
Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
863-874-8557