Fort Lauderdale Aims to Dominate Ocean Economy with New Initiatives

UPDATE: Fort Lauderdale is setting its sights on becoming a global leader in the ocean economy, following the successful Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show from October 29 to November 2, 2023. With new initiatives underway, this vibrant city is poised to harness its waterways for economic growth and environmental sustainability.

As the world turns its attention to Fort Lauderdale, officials announce plans to position the region as a hub for ocean-linked industries. The establishment of Florida’s new Office of Ocean Economy at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) marks a pivotal moment, placing the state on the forefront of marine and coastal economic activities.

The ocean economy is not just a trend; it’s a powerful engine contributing over $511 billion to the national GDP in 2023 and supporting millions of jobs along coastlines and river systems. Fort Lauderdale, with its nickname as the “Venice of America,” boasts an impressive 165 miles of canals and a thriving marine industry, making it uniquely equipped for this opportunity.

Port Everglades alone accounts for approximately $28.1 billion in annual business activity and sustains more than 200,000 jobs across Florida. This economic infrastructure, combined with the scientific might of Nova Southeastern University (NSU), positions Fort Lauderdale to lead in marine innovation.

The city’s commitment to ocean sustainability is evident with the appointment of its first Chief Waterways Officer in April 2025. This role aims to unify safety, infrastructure, conservation, and economic opportunity. Recent initiatives include:

– **Restoration Efforts**: Over 100 new mangroves have been planted at sites like George English Park, enhancing habitat and protecting shorelines.
– **Science and Transparency**: Expanded water quality testing in collaboration with Miami Waterkeeper increases data collection on bacteria, turbidity, and salinity.
– **Infrastructure Upgrades**: Recent stormwater enhancements demonstrate that resilience and recreation can coexist effectively.
– **Safer Boating**: A new partnership with Florida has secured funding for the city’s first pump-out boat, ensuring safe wastewater disposal for boaters.

Looking ahead, Fort Lauderdale aims to launch a public Waterways Dashboard that will display real-time data on tides, salinity, and temperature, benefiting boaters, families, and researchers alike. The city also plans to build pathways for local talent in marine services, logistics, and research, fostering opportunities from kindergarten to graduate studies.

The ocean economy must be inclusive, and Fort Lauderdale is inviting NGOs, agencies, and universities across the Caribbean and Latin America to collaborate. This open approach emphasizes that everyone from fishermen to youth organizations has a vital role in shaping the future.

With the world’s largest in-water boat show already attracting thousands, Fort Lauderdale is ready to connect data, discovery, education, and opportunity. The collaboration between NSU’s R1 research capabilities, FAU’s state leadership, and Fort Lauderdale’s water-first governance is set to propel the region into a new era of marine innovation.

As the city steps forward, the potential to combine prosperity with preservation is not just a vision; it’s an urgent reality that could redefine the ocean economy. Millions witnessed the immersion into Fort Lauderdale’s living laboratory during the boat show, and now is the time to harness that energy for a sustainable future.

Stay tuned for further developments as Fort Lauderdale takes bold steps to lead the ocean economy, proving that economic growth and environmental stewardship can flow together.