Information Technology

The Pensacola area includes diverse IT sectors including digital media, led lighting and training, photonics/optics and mobile technologies.

More than 250 information technology companies employ nearly 3,200 people in the region. The growing sector is anchored with a collaborative environment of education partners, experienced entrepreneurs and some of the nation’s most innovative and dynamic information technology companies including General Dynamics Information Technology, Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) and CACI.

Leverage Our Strengths Into Your Business Success

Skilled & Ready Talent

To ensure there is a ready and skilled information technology talent pipeline, the region offers 20 industry-focused training programs, ranging from middle school through the post-secondary level.

Supporting Start-Ups

Co: Lab Pensacola targets early-stage, high-growth IT companies to increase their chances of success by providing shared office space, services and consulting as a business incubator.

Top in Tech: The Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition

The Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) located in Pensacola, is a non-profit research institute of the Florida University System, whose focus is to blend science and technology to extend human capabilities.

  • Research Intensity:  IHMC’s yearly $12-$15 million R&D budget is focused on pioneering cutting-edge technologies that leverage and extend human capabilities.
  • Powerful Partners: IHMC’s research partners have included DARPA, NSF, NASA, Army, Navy, Air Force, NIH, IARPA, DOT, IDEO, Raytheon, IBM, Microsoft, Rockwell Collins ,Boeing, Lockheed Martin,  among others.
  • Groundbreaking: IHMC  research includes artificial intelligence, cognitive science, humanoid robotics, exoskeletons, cybersecurity and many more related fields.
  • New Facilities: IHMC’s new facility spans 30,000 square feet and includes a full-time, regular workforce of about 100 researchers.

Leader Spotlight: Dr. Ken Ford

“We serve as a talent magnet, actively drawing some of the best and brightest innovators in science and technology from around the world to Florida. Toward that end it’s very important to us that we foster a work environment that provides the scientists and engineers the necessary tools and flexibility to successfully innovate. On top of the direct impact, our R&D deliverables directly translate into opportunities for clever and innovative business people as well as equity investors, to work with us and enjoy the technology transfer and commercialization possibilities.”

Dr. Ken Ford, Co-Founder & CEO, Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition

Maps & Resources

View regional business parks from downtown Pensacola to Century City.

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Did you know that FloridaWest launched CO:LAB in 2008 to fuel startups in Pensacola? Mentors and leaders at Co:Lab share their experiences and guide entrepreneurs as they launch their businesses. The CO:LAB facility offers office space and equipment, community with other entrepreneurs, workshops and more. Click here to read more
Foreign Trade Zone No. 249, serving Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties, is a key asset for businesses involved in international trade, logistics and manufacturing. Administered by the Pensacola-Escambia Promotion and Development Commission with support from FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance, FTZ 249 helps companies reduce costs, improve cash flow and boost global competitiveness. Located in … Read more