Plant City Economic Development CEO named as one of top economic developers in America.
At the Annual ECONOMIX event at Lake Nona in November, the Plant City Economic Development Corporation’s (PCEDC) President & CEO, Steve Morey, received a Top 50 Economic Developer Award. The prestigious recognition honors professionals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and effectiveness in driving economic growth and prosperity in their communities.
“I am honored to have been recognized as one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers for 2025, Morey said. “I am humbled to have won this award while leading the Plant City EDC and appreciative of all those who have helped and advised along this journey. It is as much a recognition of this amazing community as it is of my individual efforts. This award doesn’t happen without the support and leadership of our local businesses and the City of Plant City. The work done by the Plant City commission and Plant City leadership, in partnership with our business and community leaders, has laid the groundwork for success. It is a privilege for me to wake up every day to work towards a bright future for this community, and I am grateful to do the job I love here. The citizens and leaders of the City of Plant City have already built a great reputation for it being the best place to live, work, and play. I look forward to the opportunity to continue to make “Embracing the Future, While Preserving the Past” come alive!”
According to Consultant Connect, “The Top 50 Economic Developer Award by Consultant Connect celebrates the outstanding achievements of economic developers across North America. Economic developers play a vital role in fostering business expansion, job creation, and overall economic vitality. The Top 50 Economic Developer Award acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to their regions by implementing strategic initiatives, forging partnerships, and leveraging resources to stimulate economic development. Through their vision, leadership, and collaborative efforts, awardees have successfully attracted investments, supported local businesses, and enhanced the competitiveness of their communities in the global marketplace. Consultant Connect’s recognition highlights the importance of economic development efforts in fueling sustainable growth and improving the quality of life for residents. Winners of the Top 50 Economic Developer Award serve as exemplars of excellence in the field, inspiring others to emulate their success and drive positive change in their respective regions.”
One major economic gain in the past 12 months came when Governor Ron DeSantis announced a $5.5 million grant to the city for the construction of a 2.75-mile loop extension of Henderson Way, allowing access to 310 acres of commercial and light industrial development sites. Morey and the PCEDC were instrumental in offering expertise that supported meeting the requirements to get the grant.
“The EDC is a strong partner with the city,” City Manager Bill McDaniel said. “We work hand in hand, and I have had the pleasure of working with Steve since he arrived in the role of president. He does a fantastic job. I think the partnership between the city and the EDC is extremely effective. It brings a lot of benefit to our community, and it is a relationship I hope to see continue for years to come. Congratulations to Steve!”
“One of the great things about being an economic developer is that every day is different and you need to be flexible,” Morey commented. “The PCEDC is the front door for businesses considering relocating or expanding into Plant City. This requires responding to RFPs from interested companies, touring and meeting with business decision makers, and working with them towards making the Plant City decision.”
In addition to bringing in employers, he also works to keep existing employers in town. “For our existing employers, I like to tell them that if they have a challenge or an opportunity that they need assistance with, the role of the PCEDC is to get them in touch with the resources they need,” he commented. “Instead of them making 20 calls, just make one call to the PCEDC and let us do the work of matching you with the right resource to assist.”
In this arena, Morey takes the role of communicating with different groups of stakeholders and customers, local businesses, investors, partner organizations, real estate professionals, site selection consultants, and local and state government.
The PCEDC has served as a catalyst for improving the lives of those who live and work in Plant City. “When I think of the past year, it’s not one single project that comes to mind,” he said. “It’s the culmination of all of them and the effect they’ve had on our community from increased wages, job opportunities, and investments in amenities and services that continue to provide for a great quality of life in Plant City. In economic development, success begets success and the word is out that Plant City is a community that gets things done, and is an amazing location for business investment, to raise a family, and to visit.”
