How youth programs and education are building Ocala’s future

Discover how Ocala is growing its future through young entrepreneurs, business innovation, and higher education partnerships.

OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Residents of the 352 are no strangers to Ocala’s recent growth – and the changes that come with it. It’s not all worsening traffic, shifting business landscapes, and fluctuating housing prices. Beneath the surface of this rapid development is a strong investment in Ocala’s roots.

Heather Shubirg, Chief Growth Office of the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP), shared how the community is working to ensure its growth includes opportunities for the next generation.

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A growing skilled work force is key to fueling local business success. While many would think of talent moving to Ocala, this also includes fostering young local talent.

Marion County youth had the opportunity to gain valuable real-world business experience at the 11^th Annual Youth Business Plan Competition. This event allowed high school students to pitch innovative business ideas to a panel of judges and potential investors.

Potential investors heard pitches from the top teams selected to present. Courtesy: Ocala Metro CEP

Finalists in the 2025 Youth Business Plan Competition presented their innovative business ideas. — Potential investors heard pitches from the top teams selected to present. Courtesy: Ocala Metro CEP

Out of 29 applicants, five finalists were selected to present to the panel. This year’s first-place winner came from Belleview High School. The business, “You Leave, We Feed!” offers specialized animal care for horses, cattle, and small pets when their owners are away.

Shubirg emphasized that the competition is about more than just the prizes. “It’s about creating opportunities for students to dream big and develop skills for the future,” she said.

Ocala is also investing in young talent through strategic higher education partnerships. The College of Central Florida recently announced a collaboration with the University of Florida, allowing students to earn an Associate of Arts degree from CF with guaranteed admission to a bachelor’s program at UF.

As Ocala continues to grow, initiatives like these ensure that its future is just as promising as its present – grounded in community, opportunity, and vision.

POV:Ocala is the CEP’s bimonthly video series to keep the Ocala Metro in the know on what’s new and coming to Ocala, hosted by CEP leadership.