JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville’s Momentum: A Candid Conversation
In a recent episode of This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, I sat down with Daniel Davis, President and CEO of the JAX Chamber. Our conversation took place at Manifest Distilling, one of the many vibrant spots in a rapidly growing downtown Jacksonville. Davis, who launched the Speakeasy podcast in April alongside co-host TJ Ward, shared how storytelling, economic strategy, and community pride are shaping the future of our region.
“It’s really refreshing to have unfiltered conversations about leadership, growth, and what makes Jacksonville special,” said Davis.
PREVIOUS EPISODE: A cigar passion turned into a successful business
From Politics to Progress: Davis’ Jacksonville Journey
Davis is no stranger to Jacksonville’s development—personally or professionally. A Jacksonville native, he’s been with the Chamber for over 11 years and previously served in the Florida House of Representatives.
“Once you come to Jacksonville, it’s hard to leave,” he reflected. “There’s a special energy here.”
He’s channeled that energy into spearheading economic development efforts through the JAX Chamber and its economic arm, JAXUSA Partnership.
The Speakeasy Podcast: Getting to Know the Leaders Behind the Titles
Launched in April 2025, the Speakeasy podcast aims to dig deeper than job titles, giving listeners a raw, unscripted look at Jacksonville’s most influential leaders. Guests have included:
- Mark Lamping, Jacksonville Jaguars President
- Joe Hinrichs, CEO of CSX
- Eric Mann, President of First Coast YMCA
- Darnell Smith, Florida Blue Market President
- Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff
“When you watch, you get to know the person—not just the resume,” Davis said. “And the recurring theme? Everyone ends up talking about how amazing Jacksonville is.”
Economic Growth Drivers: From Advanced Manufacturing to FinTech
Jacksonville’s economy is not just growing—it’s transforming.
“Wall Street Journal ranked us as the No. 2 hottest economy in the country last year,” Davis noted, pointing to industries like:
- FinTech: Rapid expansion with strong ties to London
- Logistics and Aviation: Fueled by Jacksonville’s deepwater port and prime location
- Advanced Manufacturing: Creating ripple effects across the regional job market
Davis explained that when a manufacturing company sets up shop, suppliers and related businesses follow—creating a “1-to-7 job creation ratio.”
The Power of Talent: Veterans and Young Professionals Fuel the Workforce
A key pitch to companies considering a move to Jacksonville? A ready-made, highly skilled workforce.
- Military Talent: Over 100,000 military professionals call Jacksonville home, with 3,000 transitioning into the civilian workforce each year.
- Young Graduates: Local institutions like UNF, JU, UF, and FSU produce over 20,000 grads annually.
- Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: Chamber programs support startups with business modeling, mentorship, and new access-to-capital initiatives.
“We’re consistently ranked among the best places to start a business,” Davis said. “We help entrepreneurs move from idea to implementation.”
Jacksonville’s Changing Skyline: Downtown Development and the Four Seasons Effect
Downtown Jacksonville is evolving, with major developments in the works—especially at the long-anticipated Shipyards project.
“We’re finally getting those quality hotel rooms we need,” Davis said, referencing the arrival of a Four Seasons Hotel. “It raises the bar for everything—events, business travel, tourism.”
The presence of a luxury hotel will help drive higher room rates and attract boutique brands, helping Jacksonville compete with cities like Tampa and Nashville for major conferences and corporate relocations.
Tourism and First Impressions: Jacksonville on the National Stage
Tourism is also trending upward, thanks to the work of Visit Jacksonville and CEO Michael Corrigan, a former City Council colleague of Davis.
“When we pitch Jacksonville to companies, Michael is right there selling the experience of being here,” Davis said. “Quality of life matters just as much as job opportunities.”
What’s Next for Jacksonville? “Big Announcements” Ahead
While Davis couldn’t share specifics, he hinted at major developments on the horizon.
“The pipeline is strong,” he said. “You’ll hear some really good announcements that will position Jacksonville for long-term success.”
Financial services are expected to grow even more, alongside continued expansion in logistics, aviation, and high-tech sectors.
“People chase talent,” Davis concluded. “And talent is choosing Jacksonville.”