The Florida Space Innovation Center
The Florida Space Innovation Center (FSIC) is a nonprofit hub accelerating talent, innovation, and opportunity across the Space Coast. We bring together universities, industry, government, and community partners to build a world‑class ecosystem where people learn, create, and launch new ideas.
What we do
FSIC takes a partner‑first approach, strengthening—not duplicating—the great work already happening across the Space Coast. We focus on filling the critical gaps that limit regional growth, especially in space‑focused talent development, innovation support, and university–industry collaboration. By convening educators, employers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, we create a unified ecosystem where each partner contributes to a shared mission: building a world‑class space economy that benefits local residents and positions Florida as a global leader in the next era of exploration.
Our focus is to
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Grow the talent pipeline through hands‑on STEM/STEAM programs, internships, and workforce pathways.
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Support innovators and entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and access to regional partners.
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Connect universities and industry to expand research, collaboration, and real‑world learning.
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Strengthen the community with programs that make space, science, and technology accessible to all ages.
Outcomes we will deliver
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A skilled local workforce ready for high‑growth space and tech careers.
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New companies and jobs launched through regional collaboration and innovation support.
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Expanded university presence that anchors long‑term economic and cultural growth.
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A stronger, more vibrant Space Coast, where education, industry, and community rise together.
Why We Were Formed
Southeast Volusia is on the verge of unprecedented transformation. With Deering Park and surrounding developments bringing more than 10,000 new homes and over 10 million square feet of commercial and light‑industrial space, the region is entering a once‑in‑a‑generation growth cycle. FSIC was formed to ensure this expansion becomes a catalyst for opportunity — not just population growth.
The City of New Smyrna Beach set clear goals: diversify our economy beyond leisure and tourism, lessen the tax burden on residents, and create higher‑wage career pathways so our children and grandchildren can build their futures here at home. FSIC exists to help deliver on those goals by bringing partners together, filling the gaps that slow regional progress, and ensuring local residents benefit from the rise of the space economy.
By aligning universities, employers, innovators, and community leaders, we help shape a future where Southeast Volusia becomes a thriving, inclusive, and globally connected hub for space, science, and technology.
Our Roots and Proven Approach
FSIC grew out of years of local leadership and regional collaboration. Its foundation was shaped by the work of the New Smyrna Beach Economic Development Task Force and the Southeast Volusia Chamber of Commerce’s Advocacy and Economic Development Committee, where community leaders identified the need for a coordinated, future‑focused innovation strategy.
Our model is grounded in national best practices for innovation hubs, informed by experience helping launch the Potomac Quantum Innovation Center and similar ecosystem‑building efforts in the National Capital Region. FSIC is intentionally aligned with federal and state priorities — including NSF Regional Innovation Engines, EDA Tech Hubs, and Space Florida initiatives — positioning Southeast Volusia to compete for and win the resources needed to build a world‑class space economy.
Contact
Connect with us to explore opportunities, spark ideas, and help shape the future of Florida’s space economy