As we reflect on the momentum built in 2025, it’s clear the aerospace industry is entering a  new phase—one defined by scale, speed, and ambition. Milestones like Artemis II and the  continued advancement of super heavy-class launch systems signal a step change in how   

often we fly, how much we carry, and what missions are now possible. As home to the  world’s busiest spaceport system and an aerospace ecosystem built to support what  comes next, Florida sits at the center of this moment. 

In 2025, Florida once again led the nation in launch activity, surpassing 100 orbital launches from the Cape Canaveral’s Spaceport and deploying more than 2,000 payloads  supporting commercial broadband, national security, civil space exploration, and  emerging technologies. But launches are only one indicator of progress. Across the state,  aerospace investment expanded well beyond the launch pads, with new satellite  processing, advanced manufacturing, aviation, and defense infrastructure coming online. 

Major investments from partners such as Amazon Leo, AURA AERO, SpaceX, Blue Origin and BAE Systems reflect confidence not just in individual projects, but in Florida’s long- term aerospace strategy. These companies are expanding footprints, adding jobs, and  building capabilities that anchor the supply chain and create lasting economic impact. 

At the same time, emerging companies are finding Florida to be a place where innovation  can move from concept to commercialization. Through Space Florida’s capital accelerator  programs, early-stage aerospace and space-adjacent companies gain access to funding,  mentorship, and pathways to scale—efforts that have helped participating companies  generate approximately $900 million in follow-on capital and exits over the life of the  programs. 

One of the clearest lessons of 2025 is that infrastructure investment is now a defining  factor in aerospace competitiveness. By 2035, Florida must be prepared to support the  transport of at least 5,000 metric tons of cargo to space annually, translating into hundreds  of launches per year across multiple vehicle classes. Meeting that demand requires  integrated planning across what we call the “Big 6” infrastructure needs: wastewater,  wetlands, wharf, bridge, power, and gas. 

Throughout the year, our team worked closely with industry partners, local governments,  and Florida’s congressional delegation to address these needs. A major milestone was the advancement of tax-exempt status for spaceport facility bonds, aligning spaceports with  airports and seaports and unlocking new access to capital markets. This shift reduces risk  and enables greater private investment as Florida’s spaceport system evolves toward  higher cadence, greater complexity, and increasing commercial demand. 

National security and workforce readiness remain core to this ecosystem. Our defense  partners continue to expand operations across the state, strengthening the industrial base  and creating high-skill jobs. Equally important is workforce development. The Space  Florida Academy Program is active in 39 school districts, engaging more than 6,000  students across 185 high schools in space-related coursework and industry-aligned  credentials. 

Florida’s aerospace success is increasingly global in scope. Through the Space Florida– Israel Innovation Partnership, companies are collaborating on research and development  across satellite technology, advanced materials, and autonomous systems. Building on  this momentum, the International Aerospace Innovation Fund positions Florida as a  preferred U.S. entry point for trusted international partners seeking collaboration, testing,  and scale. 

As we move into 2026, the trajectory is clear. Continued focus on infrastructure, policy, and collaboration will be essential as launch cadence, vehicle scale, and operational  complexity increase. Space Florida will remain focused on connecting capital to  opportunity and ensuring Florida’s aerospace ecosystem grows deliberately,  collaboratively, and at scale.