Janice Loppe

Sarasota Manatee Manufacturers Association, Inc. is a regional organization serving manufacturers in Manatee, Desoto, Hardee, and Highlands counties. The private company is based in Sarasota, FL. As part of the statewide FloridaMakes network and the national MEP system, the association supports the manufacturing community through programs and resources focused on workforce development, technology acceleration, innovation, cybersecurity, supply chain optimization, and market development. It addresses industry challenges such as the manufacturing skills gap with initiatives like the "Discover Manufacturing" program, apprenticeships, employee training, and partnerships with K-12 schools and colleges to build a skilled talent pipeline. The association provides cybersecurity training for defense contractors, promotes advanced manufacturing technologies such as automation and industrial internet of things (IIoT), and offers services including technology scouting, leadership development, strategic planning, and organizational growth support. It also facilitates networking, knowledge sharing, advocacy for manufacturing-friendly policies, and access to business assessments, consulting discounts, supply chain databases, and market research.