Entrepreneur Spotlight

EVOLVE Magazine

“With millions visiting [the area] for beaches, outdoor activities and entertainment, businesses can create innovative solutions for both locals and tourists. This includes advancements in hospitality, retail, eco-tourism and tech-driven experiences that enhance interaction with the coast. Sustainability is also key, as businesses adopt eco-friendly practices to protect the area’s natural beauty.

The Fantastic Coast also supports year-round economic resilience, with less seasonal slowdown than other markets. Major attractions, events, and unique destinations—like Ocean Walk Shoppes in Daytona Beach—foster a business environment built on creativity, adaptability and consumer engagement.”

– Peter Pearson
Property Manager,
Ocean Walk Shoppes / Dundas Real Estate Investments

“I think it’s important, as the mayor of the City of St. Augustine Beach, to support our small businesses. They are the backbone of our economy and the heart of our small city. Without local businesses and entrepreneurs, the city would not thrive the way it does. Personally, as a serial entrepreneur, I embrace the risk and reward that come with building something meaningful. It is important to take opportunities and to give back as a small business owner in any way possible. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be both a small business owner and the mayor of the City of St. Augustine Beach.”

– Mayor Dylan Rumrell
City of St Augustine Beach

“Because I work in both commercial and residential real estate, I talk every day with people eager to move to Northeast Florida—and the reasons are clear. The beaches are calm, walkable and accessible to everyone, which isn’t the case in many places. The cost of living is appealing to people relocating from other parts of the country, and with top-ranked schools, trade programs and universities—especially in St. Johns County—businesses can hire and grow locally. St. Augustine’s Historic District has an appeal that can’t be matched anywhere else, and it attracts more visitors annually than the Grand Canyon. As one of the founders of the St. Augustine Business Coalition, I see tourism-driven businesses pushing the bar higher on food, accommodations and experiences. When people choose to live here, it frees them up to think creatively, take risks and build something truly special.”

– Karen Zander
GRI, CIPS, Broker/Owner
97Park Real Estate

“Florida’s Fantastic Coast is filled with wide open beaches, beautiful natural springs and abundant wildlife. Unique beach towns sprinkle the coastline while inland towns have character and charm reminiscent of Olde Florida. With its central location and proximity to the evolving space industry, this area is poised to be a hotspot for innovation. Florida’s business-friendly environment offers growing companies a unique opportunity for employees to have an excellent work-life balance with so much nature to explore right here in our backyard.”

– Krista Goodrich
Realtor™ Realty Pros Assured/ Vacation Rental Manager, Salty Dog Vacations LLC / Partner, Salty Dog Long Term Management

“As an electric bike company based on Florida’s Fantastic Coast, we are deeply inspired by the region’s stunning natural landscapes and commitment to sustainability. The area’s extensive network of scenic bike paths, coastal beauty, and eco-conscious culture create the perfect environment for growth in green transportation. With tourism booming and a growing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives, we see tremendous opportunities to innovate and introduce our products to a community that values both adventure and conservation. Florida’s unique character offers a vibrant backdrop for electric bike adoption, and we’re excited to be part of the movement toward a cleaner, healthier future.”

– Kevin Mount
Founder,
FLAUNT Electric Vehicles