TALLAHASSEE, FL—Governor Ron DeSantis announced that he is recommending $100 million in recurring funding for VISIT FLORIDA as part of the Framework for Freedom Budget.

VISIT FLORIDA estimates that Florida welcomed 35.1 million visitors between July and September 2022, marking a 6.9 percent increase from Q3 2021, and the fifth consecutive quarter of overall visitation surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Together with the Governor and state and local partners, VISIT FLORIDA has built an economic development program that has proven to be one of the most successful in the history of Florida. It provides each community with the necessary tools to support a vibrant and profitable tourism industry. 

With the financial challenges this past year from and Hurricanes Ian and Nicole, the state’s investment in VISIT FLORIDA is more vital than ever before. In 2021, Florida’s Office of Demographic Research reported that for every $1 invested in VISIT FLORIDA, $3.27 is returned in tax revenue, the highest ever calculated for the organization. In both times of crisis and prosperity, VISIT FLORIDA and the Florida tourism industry have been a foundation for the state, ensuring Florida remains one of the top destinations in the world.  Governor DeSantis’ budget recommendation will enable VISIT FLORIDA to continue positively impacting Floridians and the state’s economy.

“VISIT FLORIDA’s worth has been tested and proven. Governor DeSantis knows that tourism is Florida’s No. 1 industry and these additional dollars will be felt across every community in Florida and by every resident of this state. Under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, our successful marketing campaigns and partnerships continue to break visitation records. We must continue to invest in the marketing tools necessary to keep visitors coming to Florida and pumping their dollars into our economy.” - Dana Young, VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO

 

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