Advanced manufacturing research and development lands in Pensacola

LIFT, a national advanced materials manufacturing innovation institute, will establish a technology accelerator and talent development facility in Pensacola. Founded in 2014, LIFT focuses on driving American advanced manufacturing through technology and workforce development. The $21 million project, supported by partnerships with Pensacola State College, Space Florida, and Triumph Gulf Coast, aims to bridge the gap between academic research and product commercialization.

LIFT plans to employ 36 people with an average wage of $113,000 and generate $32 million in new research over the next five years. The facility will enhance the existing manufacturing ecosystem in Northwest Florida and support industries such as aerospace, defense, and automotive. Local officials expressed optimism about the positive impact on the tech workforce and the economy. The partnership will help advance manufacturing technologies and develop the next generation of skilled workers, marking a significant investment in the region’s future.

REVERB by Hard Rock Hotel and new luxury residences to elevate downtown

Hard Rock International has announced plans to develop a new hotel, REVERB by Hard Rock® Pensacola, set to break ground in 2026 and open in 2029. This hotel will be located downtown at Maritime Park along Pensacola Bay and will include over 125 tech-enhanced rooms, multiple dining options, a fitness center, and spaces for podcasts and conferences.

American Magic Selects Pensacola

The New York Yacht Club's America’s Cup Team has selected Pensacola as the site for their new headquarters. The 56,000 square foot facility will provide the infrastructure to support all facets of its operations,including boat storage, maintenance, repair, and training venue.

Pensacola-based Institute for Human & Machine Cognition expands again

The new $40 million Healthspan, Resilience, and Performance research complex puts Pensacola at the center of a human and biological sciences economic ecosystem and draws top research talent to the area from all over the world.

Pensacola International Airport sees extraordinary growth

A record-breaking 2.65 million passengers traveled through our airport in FY 2024, a number that has grown by a million travelers over the past decade. An additional terminal is in the works to accommodate thecontinued growth.

Pensacola named one of Conde Nast Traveler’s “Top 10 Best Small Cities” for 2023

Pensacola was selected in the Top 10 following more than 500,000 reader-voted submissions. The annual survey encourages readers to celebrate what makes each destination a must-visit, special place.

UWF professor wins cybersecurity “Global Educator of the Year” award

Dr. Eman El-Sheikh of the University of West Florida was named the GISEC Global Educator of the Year at the Dubai conference. Also, UWF has been designated by the US National Security Agency as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity.

Pensacola #31 out of 150 cities for Best Place to Live

Pensacola has been ranked as the 31st best city to live in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report, marking it as the third-highest city in Florida on the list. The city is celebrated for its stunning white sand beaches, spectacular sunsets, and vibrant multicultural influences, making it a favorite among newcomers drawn in by its Southern charm and hospitality.