About the Florida Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc.

When the Florida Chamber Foundation was created in 1968 – then called the Florida State Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation – its focus was on providing scholarships and recognition to outstanding students and teachers. The Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) Program continued until 1978.

Through the 1980s and 1990s, the Foundation went through a significant reorganization. Under the guidance of Frank Ryll and many visionary Trustees, the Foundation developed programs and grew in scope assuming the role of guide for Florida’s long-term economic success. During that period:

• A major fundraising campaign, the "Blueprint for Florida’s Future," raised more than $3 million for economic research projects
• The groundbreaking Cornerstone: Foundations for Economic Leadership report was released and provided the state with a clear vision on how to drive the state’s economy in a more progressive direction. The original Cornerstone report was followed by a number of important studies and white papers addressing important issues such as privatization, economic development, transportation, Florida’s tax structure, the importance of schools and our role as an international crossroad
• Leadership Florida was created in order to develop leaders who understood the challenges facing the state
• The WorldClass strategy was developed as a business-led school reform to train business leaders to become “champions” for WorldClass Schools in Florida’s communities.

The Florida Chamber Foundation is known as the valuable, credible, non-partisan think tank for Florida’s business community. Business leaders, members of the legislature and other elected officials continue to turn to the Foundation’s research studies for an unbiased analysis of issues facing the state, as well as recommendations that help solve the problem. And the Florida Chamber Foundation continues to tackle issues that challenge us today…and tomorrow.

Since 2000, the Foundation has provided leadership through public policy summits on topics such as affordable housing, innovation and regional stewardship. By examining tough issues and providing guidance and leadership, the Foundation keeps Florida competitive in the global economy and contributes to an improved community.