We're Building What's Next

The Suncoast Q & R Council brings together manufacturers, innovators, and regional business partners to position North Port as the place where quantum technology and resilience manufacturing rise on the Suncoast.

Aligned with our nation.

Aligned with our state.

Aligned with what's next.

Florida Has Already Chosen Its Next Industries and . . .North Port is the geographic Inland Gateway

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Florida has made quantum technology and resilience manufacturing state-level priorities, aligning with federal initiatives and a broader push to become a top 10 global economy by 2030. The infrastructure, investment, and momentum are already in motion.

North Port is where that opportunity lands on the Suncoast. The Q & R Council is where the conversation starts.

We are early. That’s exactly the point.

What We Are Building Around

A vibrant close-up captures the intricate details of computer memory modules, illuminated with a striking combination of blue and red lighting.

Quantum Technology

Quantum technology is the next frontier of computing, sensing, and communication. It is being funded, built, and commercialized now. Florida has designated it a priority industry and the federal government has named it a Critical Technology Area. The Suncoast Q & R Council puts you in the room where that future takes shape.
A clean, crisp photograph showcases a selection of gears and shafts neatly arranged on metal trolleys inside of a factory.

Resilience Manufacturing

Resilience manufacturing means building the products, systems, and supply chains that keep communities and economies functioning when disruption hits. Florida’s 2030 Blueprint has already identified it as a funding priority. North Port is positioned to be where that work happens in Southwest Florida.

EDC of Sarasota County

The Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County is a public-private partnership of business and government leaders working to grow a more diverse and resilient regional economy. The EDC is the designated economic development partner for Sarasota County, the Cities of North Port, Venice and Sarasota, and the Town of Longboat Key. Through business support, strategic partnerships and regional initiatives, the EDC helps strengthen Sarasota County’s long-term economic future. The organization also supports the Sarasota Tech Council, connecting technology leaders, entrepreneurs and partners across the region.

Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County logo

Plug and Play Network

Plug and Play is one of the world’s leading innovation platforms, connecting corporate innovation with the best startups across quantum, semiconductor, and advanced manufacturing verticals. With over 60 locations worldwide and corporate members including Walmart, Coca-Cola, Eli Lilly, and Duke Energy, their model has driven investments in companies like Dropbox, Honey, and Lending Club. The Suncoast Q & R Council applies this same model to build Southwest Florida’s quantum and resilience manufacturing ecosystem.

Sarasota-Manatee Area Manufacturers Association

SAMA is the Suncoast’s manufacturing network, connecting advanced manufacturers across Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Hardee, and Highlands counties. As part of the FloridaMakes network, their reach extends across the state and into the national MEP network. SAMA serves as a conduit between the Suncoast Q & R Council and the region’s advanced manufacturing base, helping builders and operators to drive industry forward.

Sarasota Manatee Area Manufacturers Association logo

Event Details

  • July 14, 2026 | 12 - 4 p.m.
  • Catered by DubzBBQ
RSVP Here

Agenda

12:00–1:00 p.m. – Networking & Lunch

1:00–1:15 p.m. – Introductions

1:15–1:45 p.m. – North Port Landscape & Vision

1:45–2:30 p.m. – Plug and Play Overview

2:30–3:15 p.m. – Panel Discussion

3:15–3:45 p.m. – Open Dialogue

3:45–4:00 p.m. – Wrap Up