Business Development Board of Palm Beach County
The Business Development Board of Palm Beach County (BDB) is the county’s official economic development organization. Since 1982 it has helped companies relocate to, expand in and stay in Palm Beach County. Its services are confidential and free to the businesses it assists.
The BDB helps with site selection and finding property, speeding up permits, connecting with workforce and talent, and finding financial incentives. It also supports international business and introduces companies to lenders and venture capital. Its target industries are financial services, corporate headquarters, quantum technologies, healthcare, agriculture, aviation, aerospace and engineering, advanced manufacturing, and distribution and logistics.
It serves companies considering Palm Beach County as well as employers already there. The BDB says its projects over the past five years created or retained 11,622 jobs and brought in more than $1 billion in capital investment. It also publishes regional data, including a quarterly Economic Development Intelligence Report; the third-quarter 2026 edition is now out.
The BDB has made quantum technology a major focus. In February 2026 it received $1.031 million in federal funding, secured by U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel, for quantum workforce development and regional coordination. It organizes Quantum Beach, a quantum technology event first held in the Palm Beaches in October 2025. The 2026 edition is scheduled for October 22 in West Palm Beach.
Kelly Smallridge is President & CEO. The senior team includes vice presidents Kristen Bardin (private investment), Tim Dougher and Shawn Rowan (business recruitment, retention and expansion), and Kristen Liberman (marketing and media relations). The BDB’s offices are on Evernia Street in downtown West Palm Beach.
Address: 310 Evernia St., West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 835-1008
Website: bdb.org
Social: Instagram · LinkedIn · X