About
The Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County is a team of engaged public and private leaders committed to being the catalyst for a sustainable, globally competitive, vibrant economy.
A Catalyst for Economic Possibilities
We connect entrepreneurs, business leaders and major corporations to new and existing development opportunities. Whether it’s for expanding an existing enterprise or relocating a business to Sarasota County, we can help.
Vision
To be the organization that is the catalyst for creating a vibrant economy that is sustainable and competitive globally.
Mission
To grow, diversify and sustain the economy of Sarasota County while enhancing our unique natural and cultural environment.
Principles

Innovation
The EDC embraces innovative thinking and processes within the organization and supports innovations in the business community.

Accountability
The EDC is responsible to its stakeholders, maintains commitments and is an excellent steward of resources.

Collaboration
The EDC fosters and promotes partnerships within the community to meet the common good.

Regionalism
The EDC recognizes the strengths and successes achieved in working together regionally.

Stewardship
The EDC promotes stewardship of the area’s natural and cultural environment in balance with a sustainable growing economy.

Leadership
The EDC provides direction and leadership in matters that affect the community’s economy.
Board of Directors

Mark Irwin
Chair
Market President, Truist

Devaney Iglesias
Vice Chair
West Coast Area Manager – External Affairs, Florida Power & Light Company

Steve Morehart, CPA
Treasurer
Director, Purvis Gray

Erin Cigich
Secretary
CEO, Perform[cb]

Dr. Todd Fritch
At-Large Member
EVP and Provost, State College of Florida

Brett Henson
At-Large Member
Partner, Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP

Dr. Karen Holbrook
At-Large Member
Regional Chancellor, University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee

Eric Kowalewski
At-Large Member
President of Operations – Southeast Region, PGT Innovations

Art Lambert
At-Large Member
President & CEO, S-One Holdings Corp.

Joe McKenna
At-Large Member
President & CEO, Sarasota Orchestra

Charlie Murphy
At-Large Member
Executive Vice President/Market President, The Bank of Tampa

Charles “Chip” Murphy
At-Large Member
Vice President Business Development, Michael Saunders & Company

Chris Perkins
At-Large Member
Regional President, SouthState

Mark Pritchett
At-Large Member
President and CEO, Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Scott Sensenbrenner
At-Large Member
CEO, Enzymedica

Rick Severance
At-Large Member
President, Wellen Park

Byron Shinn
At-Large Member
Partner-In-Charge, Carr, Riggs & Ingram

Heather Williams
At-Large Member
Shareholder, Kerkering Barberio & Co.

Zachary Buffington, Esq.
Board Counsel
Partner, Williams Parker Harrison Dietz & Getzen

Commissioner Erik Arroyo
City of Sarasota

Commission Chair Ron Cutsinger
Sarasota County

Commissioner Penelope “Penny” Gold
The Town of Longboat Key

Mayor Barbara Langdon
City of North Port

Council Member Dick Longo
City of Venice
“As Sarasota County’s largest employer, we are proud to support the EDC and serve as an economic engine for the region.”
– David Verinder, CEO, Sarasota Memorial Health Care System
EDC Team

Lisa Krouse
President & CEO
(941) 309-1200 x100

Erin Silk, CEcD
Chief Operations Officer
(941) 309-1200 ext. 105

Allison Evanitz
Director, Community & Investor Engagement
(941) 309-1200 ext. 101

Joshua Ewen
Director, Economic Development
(941) 309-1200 ext. 111

Karen Stewart, CEcD
Strategic Initiatives
(941) 309-1200 ext. 102

Liliana Zindler
Board Liaison & Assistant to the President
(941) 309-1200 ext. 103

Mary Bamer
Administrative Coordinator
(941) 309-1200 ext. 106
Anna Eger
Community Investment and Event Coordinator
(941) 309-1200 ext. 109
Invest in Sarasota County
The EDC of Sarasota County diversifies our local economy and helps create jobs for Floridians. Investing in the EDC empowers us to grow our economy and attract more business to our region.