Palm Coast Makes Space Industry Debut at SpaceCom 2025

Palm Coast, Florida, a rapidly growing city on the state's northeast coast, is making its first foray into exhibiting at trade shows. The city's economic development team exhibited at SpaceCom 2025 in Orlando, marking a significant step in its efforts to diversify its economy and attract high-tech businesses.

The three-day event, held from January 28th to 30th, is the industry’s most acclaimed event–connecting the world’s commercial, defense and spaceport communities. The event is produced in partnership with the 51st Space Congress, the long-standing event produced by the Canaveral Council of Technical Societies (CCTS) in partnership with NASA-Kennedy Space Center (KSC). 

This year’s expo and conference brought together over 5,000 space professionals and 250 exhibiting companies. Palm Coast's presence at the trade show signals its ambition to position itself as a viable location for businesses in the Advanced Manufacturing and R&D sectors, particularly those affiliated with the space industry.

Craig McKinney, Palm Coast's Economic Development Manager, led the team's efforts at SpaceCom. "Palm Coast is one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida and truly a city on the rise," McKinney stated. "We look forward to continued investment from partners critical to the region's presence in Advanced Manufacturing, Aerospace Aviation & Defense, and Information Technology".

The city's strategic location on I-95, just 20 miles from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and 90 minutes from the Space Coast, is a key selling point. With Florida's Space Coast becoming increasingly congested, Palm Coast is positioning itself as an attractive alternative for businesses seeking proximity to the space industry hub while offering room for expansion.

This initiative aligns with Palm Coast's broader economic development strategy. The city has been experiencing significant growth, with its population increasing by 27% from 2010 to 2022. This growth trend is expected to continue, with the city forecasted to grow another 43% before 2050.

As Palm Coast continues to grow and diversify its economy, its presence at events like SpaceCom represents a strategic move to attract high-tech industries. The city has already secured its spot for SpaceCom 2026, indicating a long-term commitment to this initiative. With its combination of strategic location, growing population, and proactive economic development efforts, Palm Coast is positioning itself as a rising star in Florida's high-tech corridor. As McKinney forecasts, “Palm Coast is the ‘next’ city on the Florida First Coast and will be a significant component in the region’s economic development in the coming years.” 

Join the City of Palm Coast’s Office of Economic Development for their next trade show at MRO Americas in Atlanta in April 2025.