Space Florida Applauds Governor’s Floridians First Budget Recommendations, Reinforcing Florida’s Status as the Space State

EXPLORATION PARK, Fla. — December 11, 2025 — Space Florida, the state’s aerospace finance and development authority, today commended Governor Ron DeSantis for his strong and unwavering commitment to strengthening Florida’s aerospace sector as it enters a new era of growth. The Governor’s FY26 budget recommendations for Space Florida, including $17.5 million in the operating budget and a total of $21 million for strategic, substantive aerospace project investments, underscore a vision that expands Florida’s leadership as the premier global center for aerospace innovation, national security operations, and commercial space activity.

The Governor’s budget recommendations for FY26 include investments designed to accelerate industry advancement, modernize and expand space transportation infrastructure, and ensure Florida remains competitive in an increasingly dynamic global space marketplace.

In addition to providing over $93 million through the FDOT Spaceport Improvement Program, the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget recommends $10 million to engage the Aerospace Investment Fund in maximizing growth in Florida’s statewide space strategy alongside commercial investments.

As Florida’s space industry continues to reach new heights, infrastructure needs along the Space Coast will continue to be a priority. The Governor has recommended $5 million in startup funding to Space Florida to work alongside state agencies to establish additional wastewater capacity for Florida’s commercial launch providers.

“Gov. Ron DeSantis’ leadership continues to drive investments that fuel innovation, strengthen national security, and expand our aerospace workforce,” said Rob Long, president and CEO, Space Florida. “By doubling down, Florida is once again demonstrating the proactive vision required to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry.”

Florida’s aerospace commitment is clear: bringing in more than $9 billion in private dollar potential across all aerospace projects; attracting $900 million to Space Florida accelerator startups; investing $530 million+ in space transportation projects; and supporting company growth and expansion. These investments fund the backbone of aerospace growth. Gov. DeSantis’ continued support for Space Florida and its mission helps secure essential industry needs from infrastructure to mission-critical capabilities and is vital to enabling the next wave of aerospace projects across the state. These investments ensure Florida not only maintains, but expands, its indispensable role in America’s aerospace enterprise and the global marketplace.

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Media Contact
Alayna Curry, APR
acurry@spaceflorida.gov

About Space Florida
‍Space Florida is where leading aerospace companies get everything they need to see their new ideas take off. As the state’s independent aerospace finance and development authority, Space Florida brings a mix of unrivaled experience, unmatched financial tools, and unbeatable location to the table by providing critical business financing opportunities for the aerospace industry, managing infrastructure investment in the state’s spaceport system, and facilitating research and development, workforce, education, and investment programs.