At the Bay Area Manufacturers Association (BAMA), we are deeply committed to advocating for the interests of the manufacturing sector in Florida. Through our BAMA Advocacy Initiative, we work tirelessly to represent the needs and priorities of local manufacturers, ensuring that their voices are heard at every level of government and across key industries. Our initiative is built on strong relationships, collaboration, and a strategic approach to influencing policy decisions that shape the future of manufacturing in our state.

Our Mission

The BAMA Advocacy Initiative aims to create a legislative climate that supports the growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness of Florida’s manufacturing industry. We focus on advocating for policies that address the most pressing issues faced by manufacturers, including workforce development, economic growth, supply chain resilience, and technological advancement.

By working closely with state legislators, government agencies, and industry partners, we ensure that the interests of manufacturers in the Tampa Bay region—and beyond—are represented and championed. Our goal is to build a strong, resilient manufacturing sector that not only drives economic growth but also provides high-wage, high-skill jobs to Florida's workforce.

Key Focus Areas

1. Workforce Development & Training
   We advocate for policies that support education and training programs to equip Florida's workforce with the skills necessary for the advanced manufacturing jobs of today and tomorrow. This includes promoting apprenticeship programs, certifications, and specialized training to fill the high-skill, high-wage positions within the sector.

2. Economic Development
   BAMA works to ensure that Florida remains competitive in the global manufacturing landscape by supporting policies that foster economic growth, investment, and innovation. We advocate for incentives that attract manufacturing businesses to Florida and support the expansion of existing companies.

3. Supply Chain Resilience
   The manufacturing sector relies heavily on a robust and reliable supply chain. Through the BAMA Advocacy Initiative, we promote policies that strengthen Florida's supply chain infrastructure, reduce dependencies on international suppliers, and ensure that local manufacturers have the resources they need to thrive.

4. Technological Innovation
   In today’s rapidly changing world, staying ahead of technological advancements is key to maintaining a competitive edge. BAMA advocates for investments in emerging technologies, digital transformation, and research and development to help Florida’s manufacturers increase productivity and stay at the forefront of innovation.

5. Environmental Sustainability
   As Florida manufacturers grow and expand, we recognize the importance of sustainability. BAMA works to promote policies that encourage environmentally responsible manufacturing practices, including energy efficiency, waste reduction, and the use of sustainable materials, while also ensuring that these practices are economically viable for businesses.

Why Advocacy Matters

Manufacturing is the backbone of Florida’s economy, and the policies that shape it have a profound impact on communities across the state. Through the BAMA Advocacy Initiative, we bring together manufacturers, industry leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders to advocate for policies that support a healthy and thriving manufacturing sector.

By participating in our advocacy efforts, members can:

• Strengthen Industry Representation: Ensure that Florida’s manufacturing sector has a unified voice in legislative and policy discussions.
• Build Strategic Relationships: Connect with policymakers, government officials, and industry peers to forge stronger ties that benefit the manufacturing community.
• Shape the Future of Manufacturing: Play a role in shaping policies that will influence the long-term growth and sustainability of manufacturing in Florida.

Get Involved

The BAMA Advocacy Initiative relies on the active participation of our members to drive meaningful change. Whether through attending advocacy events, meeting with legislators, or contributing to policy discussions, your involvement makes a difference. Together, we can ensure that Florida’s manufacturing sector continues to thrive and grow in the years to come.

Join Us in advocating for a brighter future for Florida’s manufacturers and be part of the collective effort to shape policies that drive innovation, economic growth, and job creation in our communities.

Contact Us

For more information on how you can get involved with the BAMA Advocacy Initiative or to learn more about our legislative priorities, please contact us today at beth@bama-fl.org. Let’s work together to build a stronger, more competitive manufacturing industry in Florida.