Executive Summary
For more than 60 years, Florida’s Space Coast—anchored by Kennedy Space Center (KSC) and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS)—has served as a premier gateway to space, driving tourism, high-tech jobs, and statewide economic output. After major federal program shifts in the 2010s led to significant regional job losses, Florida’s modern commercial-space resurgence—supported by Space Florida’s strategy to diversify the supply chain, modernize infrastructure, and attract private capital—has positioned the Space Coast to lead the next era of aerospace growth.
Key Takeaways:
- A Historic Launch Hub With Major Economic Stakes: KSC and CCSFS (the Cape Canaveral Space Port) helped establish Florida as the launch capital of the world—supporting innovation, visitors, and a broad aerospace supply chain.
- Commercial-Space Rebound After 2010: As Shuttle-era activity declined, the region experienced steep job losses; the shift to a market-driven model accelerated as private firms revitalized pads and facilities and expanded launch cadence.
- Space Florida’s “Catalyst” Role: Space Florida’s approach emphasizes diversifying aerospace activity and leveraging private-sector capital to re-purpose and modernize underutilized assets—reducing reliance on large federal programs while strengthening Florida’s industry depth.
- Launch Tempo and Investment Momentum: The Space Coast set records in the 2020s, with major ongoing projects and rising capital investment—supporting growth in aerospace manufacturing, services, and related high-skill employment.
- Policy Tailwinds for Infrastructure: Recent state actions strengthen Florida’s ability to support spaceport and aerospace infrastructure development, including tools designed to encourage partnerships and expand space-industry capacity.
Bottom line: Florida’s Space Coast has moved from a primarily government-centered complex to a commercial, innovation-driven aerospace engine—and ongoing investment, infrastructure readiness, and policy support leave Florida well-positioned to dominate the future of the aerospace industry.