Florida’s Space Coast Launches New Brand

January 30, 2024 – Last week, at the Economic Development Commission of Florida Space Coast’s 2024 Annual Meeting, our community joined together for the unveiling of the first-ever community-wide brand for our region- “Florida’s Space Coast: Tomorrow Launches Here.”

Todd Pokrywa, President of the Viera Company (shown here with Shaunna Lovell, EDC Volunteer of the Year), was on hand in his capacity as a member of the Board of Directors of the EDC as the organization revealed the new brand to a crowd of 450 at the King Center for the Performing Arts in Melbourne. Image Credit: Florida Today

This new brand with its vibrant colors, iconic logo, and resonating tagline “Tomorrow Launches Here” showcases that no matter which direction humanity heads next, its launchpad is Florida’s Space Coast. With over 3,000 individuals contributing to this collaborative initiative, the community’s participation and support played a significant role in making this unveiling a true success.

According to Florida Today, “EDC President and CEO Lynda Weatherman said it “captures the essence of our community as a place that not only dreams of the future, but actively shapes it.”

Weatherman said the brand was crafted through a collaborative initiative in the community, led by the EDC, a process that spanned about 1½ years.

“Branding of a community is critical in economic development, not just for talent attraction and retention, but also for the attraction and expansion of businesses,” Weatherman said.

Image Credit: Florida Today

Brett Esrock, executive vice president, chief financial officer and chief operating officer of Health First, led a 23-member “Brand Reporting Board” of community leaders directed the initiative.

The “Mission Space Coast” branding initiative included 40 community conversations in Brevard reaching more than 800 people; six local focus groups reaching 73 people; surveys of 755 Brevard residents; a total of four focus groups in North Carolina and Texas reaching 40 participants; and a nationwide survey of 800 people. Those efforts formed the foundation for building the brand strategy.

Weatherman said the brand design and brand story underwent extensive testing through focus groups and a nationwide survey to ensure its resonance and appeal communicate the diverse aspects of the region.

In all, Weatherman said, 3,166 people were involved in some way in the project.

Todd Pokrywa EDC Annual Meeting
During the EDC’s annual meeting, Todd Pokrywa, President of the Viera Company presented Shaunna Lovell, director of plans and programs for Space Launch Delta 45, with the EDC Volunteer of the Year Award. Also, Mike Shah, founder and CEO of Southeast Petro, was presented the Gary R. Cunningham Distinguished Service Award for Economic Development. Image Credit: Space Coast EDC

Source: Florida Today