Technology
Miami’s world-renowned startup ecosystem has become one of the key local industries of the Magic City.
2500+
Startups
6
Unicorns
$2.41B
Annual VC Money
#4
Tech Job Growth
#16
Best Startup Ecosystem Globally
Introduction
The VC Capital of the Americas
In less than fifteen years, the word ‘startup’ has become synonymous with Miami-Dade. An industry that had little to no presence in the late 2000s is now one of the county’s most lauded success stories. In 2023, South Florida startups raised an impressive $2.41 billion across 393 deals, receiving 69% of Florida’s venture capital. With more than 2,000 startups offering around 90,000 jobs, Miami has rightfully earned its title as one of the leading regions for tech job growth and migration.
The region’s startup ecosystem, valued at an estimated $95 billion, has flourished at a dazzling speed since the pandemic, positioning Miami as the second fastest-growing startup environment in the U.S. Its strategic location makes it a key meeting point for venture capital managers, founders, and investors from North America and Latin America, facilitating cross-border innovation. Supported by a robust network of accelerators, incubators, and co-working spaces, Miami’s entrepreneurial landscape thrives on collaboration. Public-private partnerships, including the Miami-Dade Innovation Authority, are essential in overcoming challenges such as the local tech talent shortage, solidifying Miami’s status as a beacon for startup innovation and diversity.
Miami's Rise as a Global Startup Hub
In 2024, Miami’s startup ecosystem has surged to rank 16th globally, jumping seven spots from 23rd place just a year prior. Valued at approximately $95 billion, the Miami metro area has become a significant player in the global startup landscape, attracting attention and investment from around the world. The venture capital funding landscape has also flourished, experiencing a remarkable 200% increase from 2021 to 2023. With nearly 481 startups that have each raised over $1 million, the region is home to a vibrant and youthful ecosystem, with 73% of these startups founded since 2010. The average salary within Miami’s tech sector stands at a competitive $95,000, indicating the high demand for skilled talent in the area.
The local ecosystem boasts a robust pipeline for innovation, with sectors such as fintech, healthtech, and climate tech leading the charge. In 2023, the startup ecosystem experienced substantial growth, with a projected $5.6 billion injected into the local economy in 2024 alone. Moreover, Miami ranks 11th globally in the Energy & Environment sector and excels in Healthtech and Hardware & IoT sectors. With an increasing focus on sustainability and innovation, Miami’s ecosystem is bolstered by the presence of key organizations such as Refresh Miami, Kaseya, and IDC Ventures, which play a crucial role in fostering growth and collaboration among entrepreneurs. High-profile tech events, including eMerge Americas and Miami Tech Summit, further enhance the region’s reputation as a vibrant hub for innovation.
Fueling Growth Through Talent and Investment
Miami’s startup ecosystem has benefited significantly from a diverse demographic population, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs from various backgrounds. Approximately 23% of startups in Miami are founded by Latino entrepreneurs, contributing to a rich tapestry of innovation and cultural exchange. The Miami region is currently home to six active unicorns, ranking 12th among U.S. ecosystems, and the total exit value reached $2.1 billion, positioning Miami as a formidable player in the venture capital landscape. With a projected annual venture capital investment of up to $25 billion by 2030, Miami is on track to become one of the largest startup ecosystems in the Latin American region.
This thriving landscape is largely fueled by groundbreaking public-private partnerships that are fostering growth and innovation across the region’s tech industry. Initiatives like Miami Tech Works and the Tech Talent Coalition are focused on nurturing local talent, ensuring a sustainable pipeline for the region’s growing tech ecosystem. Organizations such as Tech Equity Miami are breaking down barriers to entry, expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups, while the Miami-Dade Innovation Authority (MDIA) invests in scalable tech solutions that address local challenges. With pro-tech policymakers supporting efforts like the ClimateReady Tech Hub and Endeavor Miami, the region is positioned for robust, long-term innovation.
Connect with our Industry Expert
Chief Business Development Officer
Tati brings 16 years of experience at Google working across multiple continents. Multilingual and internationally experienced, she facilitates business expansion in Miami drawing from her work in Brazil, Netherlands, and the US. Her Google achievements include leading cloud migration programs and the European GDPR transition team. With engineering education from Unicamp and Stanford, she drives Miami-Dade’s economic development through combined technical and business expertise.
Top Organizations
There is virtually no sector that hasn’t been penetrated by VC money, as shown by the array of industries represented below.
Tech Advisory Council
The Tech Advisory Council is designed as targeted private convenings of local experts that advise and support Beacon Council staff on the implementation of high-impact economic development initiatives.
Johanna Mikkola
Tech Equity Miami
Chair of Tech Industry Council
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The Aviation Advisory Council is designed as targeted private convenings of local experts that advise and support Beacon Council staff on the implementation of high-impact economic development initiatives