SAMA – the number one resource for manufacturers in Sarasota and Manatee Counties for 50 years, helping members through: Advocacy - Representing manufacturers on the state and local legislative issues that impact our businesses and bottom lines, including: The repeal of the Tangible Personal Property Tax The elimination of the Florida Use Tax Building a collective understanding of manufacturing and its role in the community. Provide resources, including data, events and media outreach to amplify our voice. Focus on the differentiators, i.e. higher average wage than most leading industries, including tourism and retail. Workforce Development - Working closely with Manatee Technical College and Sarasota Technical College to create training programs that will prepare graduates for careers in manufacturing. Participating in educational round table discussions. Networking - Discussing “Best Practices” with other manufacturers. Offering educational events with expert-driven content. Organizing plant tours of local manufacturers. Business Advising - Delivering free FloridaMakes business evaluations. Providing discounted rates on FloridaMakes third-party services. Creating customized training tools.