After years of hiatus, Jennifer Rena Bennett, owner of Matlacha's Island Flair, has partnered with the Matlacha Civic Association to resurrect Matlacha's Art Walk. Its resurgence returned to the small island on June 13, 2025. Since then, the event has gained increased attention with an intrinsic goal of rejuvenating and reinvigorating the quaint business community, home to the historic fishing village, during the times of stability prior to the cavalcade of hurricanes Ian, Helene and Milton—all of which impacted the low-lying island in different ways.

Economic uncertainty surrounds the US, due to rises in tariffs, a soft job market and the recent government shutdown. Yet that doesn’t seem to be dissuading shoppers this upcoming holiday season.

At least three Matlacha businesses continue to reel following a shoplifting incident on Saturday, Nov. 8. One store owner says the suspect stole nearly $500 in local artwork from her store alone — artwork she and the community say local business owners depend on for a stable income and quality of life. Now, nearly two weeks later, with businesses still waiting for updates, the greater community, home to the historic fishing village, remains dumbfounded by what they call an extraordinary event, feeling for the businesses and artists picking up the pieces.

It’s getting harder to financially get by in the State of Florida. Despite the minimum wage rising this past year to $14, that amount is not enough to get by according to the Florida Policy Institute.

Folks in Immokalee who depended on the community's only supermarket, Winn Dixie, are frustrated and concerned. The store closed about a week ago as part of Aldi's acquisition of Southeastern Grocers.

Some local businesses are being honored as the best in Lee County. The Horizon Council, a group dedicated to business excellence and growth in Lee County, announced its Industry Appreciation Awards for 2025.

Local construction industry leaders took a crack this week at showing area high school students how building a future isn't just a play on words.

Business is booming in Charlotte County. The area recently unveiled that it will be the home of the next Buc-cee’s, a massive gas station and convenience store that has a rabid and loyal fanbase.

The Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Fort Myers has approved two rebates for major developments. One is a home ownership project in Dunbar; the other a downtown hotel.

Ecological Laboratories Inc. in Cape Coral, went from microscopic status to statewide success, making Florida’s Top 10 Manufacturing Employers list for 2025. FloridaMakes, a statewide partnership, selects 10 manufacturing employers that create thriving workplaces with connected cultures and abundant growth opportunities.