Introduction | The Call to Transformation
We stand at the threshold of a new era, one where innovation,equity , and collaboration fuel the transformation of communities. What was once known as “Suitcase City” is evolving into The Tampa Knowledge District, a thriving ecosystem of research, economic growth, and boundless opportunity. We, the pioneers of this district, are committed to rewriting the narrative of urban revitalization, forging a future where every individual, business, and institution thrives in harmony.
In the knowledge economy era, top-tier research, education, and technology players offer considerable benefits to towns and cities that become their homes. These clusters of innovation and venture capital tend to drive high-wage employment, which in turn supports the wider service, retail, leisure, culture, and property sectors.
Competition to attract these companies and institutions is understandably intense. Whether you’re developing a new business park or regenerating a former industrial quarter, you need a place-based strategy, where knowledge, science, creatives, and industry are deliberately cultivated and combined, leading to interdisciplinary collaboration and commercial opportunity. Attracting anchor institutions is key, but there are also opportunities to accommodate small businesses and other entrepreneurs, improving economic access for women and underrepresented communities. As ever, the goal should be to drive inclusive growth that is part of the wider fabric Tampa Bay.
Our Core Beliefs
Innovation is the Engine of Progress: We believe cutting-edge research, technology, and entrepreneurship are the foundations of a prosperous future.
Community is Our Strength: Sustainable development must be rooted in the engagement and empowerment of those who call this place home.
Collaboration is Non-Negotiable. True transformation requires the convergence of the public and private sectors, academia, and local leadership.
Equity is the Future: Growth must be inclusive, ensuring opportunities for all, regardless of background or economic status.
Resilience is the Key to Enduring Change: We adapt, innovate, and overcome challenges to build a district that will stand the test of time.
The Vision | A District Redefined
We envision a Tampa where ideas flow freely, industries flourish, and residents prosper. Anchored by leading institutions— AdventHealth Tampa, RD management/ Rithm, the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital and USF, Moffitt Cancer Center —this district is poised to become one of the foremost innovation hubs in the United States. With over $2 billion in redevelopment projects, we are building not just a city, but a model for the future of urban innovation.
Key Pillars for Transformation
To fully realize the Tampa Knowledge District, we focus on six critical areas that will drive sustainable and equitable growth:
Strategic Land & Housing Acquisition
- Develop mixed-use and affordable housing to ensure inclusivity.
- Form public-private partnerships (PPPs) to fast-track redevelopment of underutilized properties.
- Offer tax incentives and financing for housing projects aligned with the district’s growth strategy.
Modernized Transportation & Mobility
- Implement Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) for enhanced accessibility.
- Expand micromobility solutions like electric scooters and autonomous shuttles.
- Transform Fowler Avenue into a pedestrian-friendly, multi-modal corridor.
Business Attraction & Economic Incentives
- Establish innovation hubs, co-working spaces, and startup accelerators.
- Provide tax breaks and financial incentives to attract high-tech firms and corporate headquarters.
- Strengthen partnerships with USF, Moffitt, and major institutions to develop industry-specific hubs.
Workforce Development & Talent Pipeline
- Expand STEM and AI-driven workforce training programs.
- Foster corporate-academic partnerships to cultivate a skilled workforce.
- Support minority-owned businesses and local entrepreneurs with mentorship and funding.
Placemaking, Investing and Revitalization
- Invest in parks, plazas, and cultural spaces to enhance livability.
- Integrate smart city technologies like IoT and 5G to improve city services.
- Implement safety and urban renewal projects to create a vibrant, thriving district.
- Develop a distinctive global identity for The Tampa Knowledge District, positioning it as a premier hub for innovation.
- Establish dedicated research clusters in high-growth industries like biotech, AI, and sustainable technology.
- Launch a venture capital fund and startup financing initiative to attract early-stage investment and business expansion.
- Organize global conferences and innovation summits to showcase Tampa’s leadership in knowledge-based economic development.
Commitment to Action
To realize this vision, we pledge to:
- Advance Infrastructure & Connectivity – Transforming Fowler Avenue into a world-class gateway and ensuring seamless transit solutions.
- Foster Workforce Development – Expanding training programs in emerging technologies to empower the next generation.
- Champion Sustainable Growth – Prioritizing projects that balance economic expansion with environmental and social responsibility.
- Support Entrepreneurs & Innovators – Creating spaces where businesses, startups, and thought leaders can collaborate and scale.
- Break Barriers to Opportunity – Ensuring equitable access to resources, education, and funding for all members of our community.
- Elevate Tampa’s Global Standing – Strengthening research, branding, and venture capital efforts to establish Tampa as a world-renowned knowledge district.
The Declaration | Our Collective Future
The Tampa Knowledge District is more than a place; it is a movement. A movement that challenges outdated perceptions, reclaims its future and proves that through vision and perseverance, any community can rise. We invite all stakeholders—residents, businesses, institutions, and policymakers to join us in shaping “Tomorrow Land” at the Knowledge District.
The transformation has begun. The momentum is unstoppable. The future is now.
We are The Tampa Knowledge District.