BY TAMMY A GANTT
The Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership features a special equine edition of the CEP Network magazine annually thanks to equines contributing 22% to the county’s GDP. The upcoming July/August issue takes a deep dive into the findings of the 2023 American Horse Council Foundation study on the economic impact of the equine community in Ocala, which was funded solely by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association.
While those in the equine industry know the impact is significant and growing, with Thoroughbred making up 50% of the horses in the county and 56% of the equine commerce, business leaders and members of the CEP may be surprised at just how much those dollars percolate through the local economy. This issue will detail the economic impact, land preserved and jobs created.
The FTBOA is a member of the nationally award-winning Ocala Metro CEP. The FTBOA was named the CEP nonprofit of the year in 2015 and FTBOA’s leadership, including CEO Lonny Powell has served on the CEP board over the years.
