Full Breakdown
Florida's Business Appeal: Ross and Griffin Launch "Ambition Accelerated"
2/10/2026, 4:16:52 PM
Core Event: Campaign to Promote Florida as a Business Hub
Billionaires Stephen M. Ross and Ken Griffin have initiated a campaign titled “Ambition Accelerated” to promote South Florida, specifically the Gold Coast region, as a prime location for business development. The campaign aims to attract other businesses to relocate to areas including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach.
Key Figures: Ross and Griffin
Stephen M. Ross is the founder of Related Companies, known for developing the Hudson Yards neighborhood in Manhattan, and has been a majority owner of the Miami Dolphins since 2009. Ken Griffin is the founder of Citadel, a major hedge fund, and Citadel Securities, a leading trading firm. Both have relocated to South Florida, with Ross moving full-time to West Palm Beach during the COVID-19 pandemic and Griffin transitioning from Chicago to Miami in 2022.
Official Statements & Responses
Ross emphasized Florida's business-friendly environment, stating, “Florida is one of the best business states, if not the best business state, in the country.” Griffin has echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the potential for business growth in Miami while expressing concerns about safety and policies in Chicago that influenced his decision to move.
Background & Context: The Move to Florida
The relocation of Ross and Griffin from New York and Chicago to South Florida reflects a broader trend among wealthy individuals and businesses seeking favorable conditions for growth. Their campaign is backed by a $10 million investment, with each billionaire contributing $5 million to the Florida Council of 100, a business advocacy group.
Why It Matters: Economic Implications
The “Ambition Accelerated” campaign could significantly impact Florida's economy by attracting new businesses and investments. This initiative aims to position South Florida as a competitive alternative to traditional business hubs, potentially reshaping the economic landscape of the region.
Criticism & Opposition
While the campaign has garnered support, there are concerns regarding the implications of such a migration. Critics argue that the influx of wealthy individuals may exacerbate existing issues such as housing affordability and income inequality in South Florida.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a lack of detailed data on the potential economic impact of the campaign and how it may affect local communities. Additionally, while Ross and Griffin advocate for Florida's business environment, some local voices express skepticism about the sustainability of this growth and its benefits to the broader population.
Verbatim Quotes
“Florida is one of the best business states, if not the best business state, in the country,” — Stephen M. Ross, Founder of Related Companies
“We are having trouble retrieving the article content.” — New York Times (contextual note)
This campaign marks a significant effort by influential figures to reshape the business narrative around South Florida, potentially leading to lasting changes in the region's economic dynamics.
