Fort Lauderdale has emerged as one of the fastest growing markets for global trade with more than 40% of local businesses engaged in or supporting international commerce. The City remains at the forefront of South Florida’s emerging “Internet Coast,” a region that is home to more than 6,000 high-technology firms. 

Ranking Fort Lauderdale as one of the “100 Best Places to Live and Launch a Business,” CNN/Money reported:

“...Fort Lauderdale has felt less impact (from the real estate market) than the regions in and around Miami. The hottest businesses here are a reflection of the subtropical climate and locale. Pleasure boat construction and services are a major sector, while the tourism industry, in general, stays strong, thanks in large part to the Canadians and Europeans attracted to the weak dollar. What’s more, a 600,000 square‐foot convention center plays host to trade shows that bring a variety of industrial leaders from all over the country in contact with local businesses. Besides the usual pleasures to be expected from a city by the sea (sun, surf, sailing and swimming), Fort Lauderdale offers a lively downtown, with museums, galleries, live music, theater and fine restaurants. And for sports‐crazed fans, there are no less than seven pro teams to root for in the surrounding area.”