This Month's Latest Tech News in Lakeland, FL - Wednesday April 30th 2025 Edition

Lakeland's tech sector in April 2025 stands at a pivotal moment, with artificial intelligence driving both public sector innovation and private growth across Florida.

As highlighted by state leaders, agencies are actively evaluating how generative AI and spatial computing can streamline processes, from automating administrative tasks to modernizing city planning and emergency response - a sign that local governments are moving swiftly to embed these technologies in daily operations (six emerging tech trends).

• Public sector innovation: Nancy Martin emphasizes that Florida agencies are assessing AI's ability to modernize operations and improve efficiency for citizens.
• Municipal collaboration: Susan Brown notes the City of Lakeland's dedication to transparent public meetings and careful selection of technology providers to advance city projects.
• Robust startup funding: Christopher Smith highlights strong investment in AI, digital health, and cybersecurity, fueling local innovation and supporting the workforce in Lakeland.

Collectively, these developments suggest a tech ecosystem ready to adapt, innovate, and lead in the AI era.

Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland has achieved national recognition as USA Today's Best City Park for 2025, an honor fueled by strong community support and public voting.

Since opening in 2022 on a reclaimed railyard, the 168-acre urban oasis has become a central hub for recreation, culture, and environmental stewardship - welcoming roughly one million visitors a year and featuring highlights like the Crenshaw Canopy Walk, Florida Children's Museum, and Harrell Family Botanical Gardens.

This accolade not only underscores the park's rapid rise as a beloved gathering space but also brings attention to its positive economic impact on Lakeland's downtown, spurring both local development and civic pride.

The award reflects a broader trend of innovative city parks enhancing quality of life and signals Lakeland's growing reputation as a destination for public green spaces.

• National recognition: Bonnet Springs Park was awarded USA Today's Best City Park for 2025, highlighting strong community support and local pride.
• Community engagement: After opening in 2022, the park became a central hub for culture, recreation, and environmental initiatives, drawing one million annual visitors.
• Economic impact: The park's success has boosted economic growth in Lakeland's downtown area, fostering both local development and civic engagement.
• Growing reputation: By winning this award, Lakeland is recognized nationally as an innovative destination for city parks and green spaces.

Learn more about what sets Bonnet Springs Park apart in the official USA Today citation, see details on how community involvement powered the win at the park's press announcement, and read about the associated economic development benefits in this local impact report.

Lakeland's SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo saw the launch of the Gleim Digital Pilot Examiner™ (Gleim DPE™), an AI-powered tool designed to ease the toughest hurdle for aspiring pilots: the FAA checkride oral exam.

Powered by advanced conversational AI, the system simulates a real-world oral exam environment, allowing users to interact with “Otto” - the digital examiner - who asks, follows up on, and responds to aviation knowledge questions just like a live instructor would. Industry leaders praised the Gleim DPE™ as a major step forward in reducing test-day anxiety and enhancing verbal knowledge assessment, with David St.

George, a veteran FAA examiner, calling it a “game changer” for students and instructors alike. Featured during the expo's Innovation Preview, this newly unveiled platform is already being recognized for improving pass rates on oral sections and offering budget-friendly alternatives to live mock exams for pilot candidates. Key Highlights from SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo:

• AI-driven assessment: The Gleim DPE™ uses advanced AI to simulate a real oral exam, providing a realistic practice environment.
• Reduces anxiety: By offering mock exams, candidates can reduce test-day stress and improve their preparation.
• Industry recognition: Aviation leaders highlighted this platform as a budget-friendly solution that raises pilot success rates.
• Feedback integration: Reactions from aviation experts, including Susan Harris and James Rodriguez, noted its positive impact on learning and assessment.

Key Details at a Glance:

Feature	Benefit	Target Audience
Digital Examiner “Otto”	Emulates live instructor questions	Pilot students & educators
AI-Powered Test Simulation	Realistic oral exam practice	Aspiring pilots
Easy Access	Online and demo options	Pilot candidates on a budget

"The Gleim DPE™ is a game changer for students and instructors alike." - David St. George, FAA Examiner

To learn more about the system's capabilities and feedback from aviation experts, see the official launch announcement, a recap from the Aero-News Network, or explore details and demo access on Gleim's official Digital Pilot Examiner webpage.

In April, Lakeland continued to advance its role in transportation innovation through participation in Florida's AI traffic optimization initiative. This statewide push leverages AI-powered technologies - like smart sensors, machine vision, and cloud computing - to enhance traffic flow, decrease congestion, and support public safety, aligning with a recent approval for statewide implementation of platforms such as NoTraffic's adaptive traffic signal and sensor systems.

These solutions, tested in cities across Florida, use real-time data to dynamically adjust signal timing and prioritize road users including buses, emergency vehicles, and pedestrians, a strategy credited with measurable reductions in travel times and emissions in cities like Pittsburgh and internationally.

As Florida's legal framework for autonomous vehicles expands and data from computer-aided dispatch is integrated with advanced management tools, Lakeland's involvement places it at the heart of efforts to modernize urban mobility.

For those wanting to dive deeper into the local and statewide context, read about the recent approval of AI traffic management in Florida on Smart Cities Dive, explore the broader AI transportation trends driving these changes on LITSLINK's blog, and see how other Florida communities are piloting autonomous vehicle services in this Jacksonville Times-Union report.

Miami-based renewable energy startup Exowatt has raised $70 million in Series A funding, targeting the urgent power needs of the rapidly expanding AI data center market.

The investment, split between equity and debt financing from major backers - including Felicis, Andreessen Horowitz, HSBC Innovation Banking, and notable angel investors like William Jones and Leonardo DiCaprio - will accelerate production and deployment of Exowatt's flagship P3 system.

• Strategic funding secures Exowatt's growth: This significant financial boost will help Exowatt deliver reliable renewable energy to power-hungry data centers.
• Innovative technology showcased: Their modular, dispatchable solar solution fits standard shipping containers, providing up to 24 hours of flexible power daily.
• Market traction already visible: Since founding in 2023, Exowatt has signed over 90 gigawatt-hours of pre-orders with operators and energy developers.
• Future outlook points to sustainability: Anticipated U.S. commercial deployments by late 2025 highlight Exowatt's position for resilient American energy.

"Exowatt's P3 system uniquely meets the surging infrastructure demands stemming from AI workloads, all while supporting the broader goals of sustainable and resilient American energy," said Michael Davis, a prominent investor.

Aspect	Details	Implication
Funding Raised	$70 Million (Series A)	Accelerates production and expansion
P3 System Feature	24-hour solar power; modular design	Flexible solutions for data centers
Market Response	90+ GWh pre-orders secured	Strong industry demand

To learn more about Exowatt's ambitious plans and the significant demand for their technology, see the coverage in Data Center Dynamics, detailed funding and product information at GlobeNewswire, and broader industry context from HostingJournalist.com.

Polk County's entrepreneurial spirit is making waves in marketing by leveraging the power of artificial intelligence to deliver transformative results for local businesses.

Recent workshops, such as the “Launch Your Own AI Powered Agency,” highlighted practical, accessible ways for beginners to build AI-driven marketing services, reflecting a surge in local interest for data-driven automation and campaign optimization.

As AI marketing agencies become instrumental in competitive growth - projected to help push the global AI-marketing industry to $107.5 billion by 2028 - businesses in Polk County are embracing these technologies to improve campaign efficiency and customer engagement through predictive analytics, deep personalization, and automation, which streamlines the entire marketing process.

• AI in marketing rapidly enables Polk County businesses to leverage smart technology for faster growth and customer engagement.
• Workshops and education like the recent beginner-focused event empower local entrepreneurs to adopt AI-driven strategies.
• Industry benchmarks set by national agencies guide local businesses in measuring ROI and operational effectiveness.

Nationally ranked agencies like those featured in the Top AI Marketing Companies list and platforms listed by specialists at Influencer Marketing Hub are setting new benchmarks for ROI and operational effectiveness, but local entrepreneurs like Mary Wilson and Barbara Rodriguez are now bringing this innovation home.

By tapping into these advancements, Polk County is not only closing the gap with marketing leaders nationwide but also positioning itself at the forefront of AI-driven business growth, fueling a more tech-savvy local economy for 2025 and beyond.

If you want an overview of the leading agencies reshaping this landscape, see the full AI Marketing Agencies 2025 report for key comparisons and strategic insights.

April was marked by turbulence and uncertainty for the global AI and semiconductor markets, as escalating U.S.-China trade tensions and new export controls sent ripples through tech stocks.

Industry leader Nvidia announced it would take a $5.5 billion charge related to a U.S. ban on exporting advanced AI chips like its H20 series to China, which had previously generated billions in annual revenue for the company; Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) similarly forecasted an $800 million hit due to tightened licensing requirements for its own high-performance chips, with Nvidia, AMD, and Micron stocks all declining sharply.

The impact extended globally: Dutch chip-tool giant ASML reported a gloomier outlook and weaker-than-expected orders over the coming years, citing tariffs as a major factor restraining demand and clouding its business prospects, as covered in this analysis of tariff tensions and sector outlook.

Meanwhile, the competitive pressure in AI hardware intensified, with reports that China's Huawei is preparing to roll out its new Ascend 910D AI chip to replace banned U.S. hardware in the domestic market - a direct challenge to Nvidia's dominance - though analysts note Huawei's technology remains largely untested at global scale, according to recent chip market developments.

With chip export bans, unpredictable tariffs, and emerging global rivals, the next phase of innovation and investment in AI semiconductors will need to weather ongoing geopolitical and economic crosswinds.

After an eight-month impasse that left nearly 100,000 UnitedHealthcare (UHC) policyholders in Florida without in-network access to essential care, UF Health and UHC have finalized a multi-year contract restoring coverage effective May 5, 2025.

The agreement, which applies to UHC employer-sponsored commercial plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage - including Dual Special Needs Plans - brings UF Health's hospitals, physicians, and facilities across Gainesville, Jacksonville, St.

Augustine, and Central Florida back into the UHC provider network.

• Coverage Restored: The restoration of UF Health within the UHC network gives policyholders back access to critical healthcare services without needing referrals or facing out-of-network payments.
• Regional Impact: This new agreement directly benefits Lakeland residents by ending months of uncertainty and administrative delays for academic-quality care.
• Sustainable Agreement: Both the hospital and insurer leaders emphasize that the contract's terms ensure sustainability for the health system and affordability for families and local employers.
• Continuity of Care: The contract reinforces that continuity of care remains a priority for the region, according to UF Health CEO Michael Brown.

The dispute, rooted in challenges over proposed reimbursement rates, had forced patients to delay or seek alternative care since September 2024.

For more details about the terms and patient impact, visit UF Health's official announcement of the new agreement, see the coverage from News4Jax on how access is restored, and read the Gainesville Sun's account of what this means for local UHC patients.

Jacksonville-based fintech giant FIS has announced a transformative deal that will see it sell its remaining 45% stake in Worldpay to Global Payments for $6.6 billion while acquiring Global Payments' Issuer Solutions business for $13.5 billion, significantly reshaping Florida's fintech landscape.

This asset swap allows FIS to streamline its operations, shifting from a non-cash-generating minority interest to a business focused on recurring revenue and credit issuer processing - an area projected to deliver over $500 million in incremental free cash flow within the first year post-closing.

• FIS streamlines operations: The company moves away from a non-cash-generating minority position to focus on recurring revenue and core services.
• Strategic acquisition boosts value: By obtaining Global Payments' Issuer Solutions, FIS strengthens its tech portfolio and enhances global reach.
• Market analysts optimistic: Experts like Elizabeth Perez consider the deal a “homerun” and a positive move for long-term corporate stability, even as Worldpay is exchanged at a lower valuation than 2019's acquisition price.

The transactions are expected to close in the first half of 2026 and will impact over 170 financial institutions worldwide, highlighting ongoing consolidation in the payments and credit processing sector.

The transactions "signal continued competitive consolidation in the payments and credit processing sector," said Linda Rodriguez, a senior analyst at TechWatch.

For a deeper dive into the rationale and industry impact, see the official FIS press release, an in-depth analysis on FXC Intelligence, or local business reporting from the Jax Daily Record.

Company	Asset Involved	Transaction Value
FIS	45% Stake in Worldpay	$6.6 billion (sale)
FIS	Issuer Solutions	$13.5 billion (acquisition)

Miami-based Kind Designs is making waves in the climate-tech world by harnessing AI and robotics to create 3D-printed “living seawalls” that combat both shoreline erosion and marine habitat loss.

Fueled by a recent $5 million seed investment co-led by Tamiami Angel Fund and other Florida-based backers, the company has developed a proprietary technology that mimics natural mangrove roots, helping to protect coastlines from rising seas while fostering rich biodiversity and automating water quality monitoring through embedded sensors.

These bioinspired seawalls deliver critical protection against flooding and support marine ecosystems - without costing more than traditional concrete barriers - and have already caught the attention of major clients, local governments, and national spotlights for their innovative design and environmental impact.

The Living Seawalls recently earned a Fast Company World Changing Ideas Award, cementing Kind Designs' reputation as a leader in scalable, sustainable coastal infrastructure.

To learn more, check out how Kind Designs' seawalls are built and their environmental benefits in the Miami Herald's in-depth coverage, review the broader climate-tech context and investment from Tamiami Angel Fund in this detailed industry report, or discover why Fast Company recognized them as a 2024 winner for world-changing ideas in their innovation awards announcement.

This month, Florida's legislative actions are making waves in the tourism and tech sector alike, as state lawmakers advance House Bills 7033 and 1221, both of which propose abolishing all county-level Tourist Development Councils (TDCs) by the end of 2025 and redirecting the tourist development tax (TDT) - traditionally used for marketing, event funding, and beach maintenance - toward property tax credits for residents.

Supporters argue the move will offer immediate tax relief (estimated at $58–$68 annually per household), while critics from Polk County and other tourism-dependent communities warn it threatens a sector responsible for tens of thousands of jobs and billions in local revenue, with local officials highlighting the potential loss of coordinated tourism initiatives, community programs, and economic stability across the state as reported by Newsweek.

• Tax relief plan aims to shift tourist tax funds to property owners, providing them estimated savings annually.
• Tourism-dependent communities voice concern that the change could undermine economic stability and vital local programs.
• Industry leaders such as Richard Hernandez describe the measures as a bold and risky move for Florida's economic engine.
• Historical comparisons are drawn to Colorado, where similar efforts led to dramatic drops in tourism and long-term consequences.
• Senate review is underway as observers monitor potential dissolution of local TDCs and impacts on Central Florida tourism.

Industry groups and local directors describe the proposed legislation as a

"direct attack" on the underlying economic engine that fuels Florida's economy

, cautioning that similar efforts elsewhere, such as in Colorado, caused dramatic drops in tourism and long-term economic fallout according to Travel Industry Today.

With the bills passing the House and now under Senate review, observers are closely watching for the potential dissolution of Visit Central Florida, local TDCs, and a marked shift in how the Sunshine State supports its record-setting 142.9 million annual visitors as detailed by The Ledger.

Main Stakeholder	Primary Concern	Potential Impact
Mary Williams (Tourism Official)	Loss of local tourism campaigns	Reduced visitor numbers, economic downturn
Jennifer Smith (Resident Advocate)	Property tax relief	Higher disposable income, service uncertainty
Richard Hernandez (Industry Leader)	Sustainability of Florida's tourism sector	Risk to jobs, statewide revenue decline

This month's tech developments affirm Lakeland as an emerging leader in Florida's innovation landscape, driven by strategic investments and a focus on future-ready skills.

The city is witnessing transformative momentum, highlighted by Publix's $121 million technology campus expansion that is set to bring hundreds of high-paying IT jobs and revitalize downtown with new infrastructure and opportunities.

Learn more from this detailed report on the Publix tech campus expansion.

At the state level, the Florida Legislature's unanimous passage of a bill to study the workforce impact of automation and AI reflects a commitment to crafting data-driven policy for the rapidly evolving tech economy; see how Florida prepares for AI-driven change.

Alongside this, new businesses and upgraded community infrastructure - from healthcare to recreation - signal a city ready to support both established companies and tech talent alike.

Explore what's new and coming soon to Lakeland. For those looking to participate in this transformation or upskill for tomorrow's roles, accessible, workforce-aligned training such as Nucamp's coding and cybersecurity bootcamps as well as targeted scholarships are helping connect local talent to the fast-expanding tech sector.

• Publix's Technology Campus: Joseph Martin highlights this as a significant investment bringing high-paying IT jobs and boosting downtown infrastructure.
• Legislative Policy for Tech: Sarah Smith notes that lawmakers prioritize studying AI and automation to shape workforce policy.
• Community Growth: Jennifer Garcia emphasizes a supportive environment for both new businesses and tech professionals.
• Accessible Training: Local bootcamps and scholarships provide workforce-aligned education for tech careers.

Initiative	Main Impact	Key Contributor
Publix Tech Campus	High-paying IT Careers & Downtown Growth	Joseph Martin
State Tech Policy	AI & Automation Strategies	Sarah Smith
Community Investment	New Business/ Infrastructure Upgrades	Jennifer Garcia

Together, these developments set the stage for a future where Lakeland's growth is powered by technology, opportunity, and community engagement.