“Florida and the UK: Creating a Thriving Transatlantic Innovation Ecosystem”

The vibrant city of Miami has captured attention not only from Latin America and Europe but has also become a focal point for the United Kingdom. Recently, a significant alliance has emerged between Florida and the UK, spanning diverse sectors such as aerospace, life sciences, fintech, and artificial intelligence.

At the center of this transatlantic collaboration is Rufus Drabble, the British Consul General overseeing Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Based in Miami, Drabble plays a crucial role in strengthening the commercial and cultural ties between these dynamic regions. In a discussion with Refresh Miami, he provided insights into the origins of this partnership, the swift pace of collaboration, and the numerous opportunities available for startups and investors on both sides of the Atlantic.

Understanding the Florida-UK trade dynamic

The relationship between Florida and the UK is anchored in mutual growth, with an emphasis on trade, business, and innovation. Drabble notes that approximately 80% of his role is devoted to this growth, identifying promising opportunities. If Florida were considered an independent economy, it would rank as the 14th largest globally, while the UK holds the 6th position. This creates a unique synergy for collaboration.

About two years ago, a pivotal milestone was reached when Governor DeSantis and UK government representatives signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). In light of the stalled federal free trade agreement between the US and the UK, a strategic decision was made to engage directly with states that possess complementary strengths. Florida was recognized as a key partner.

Core sectors of collaboration

The MOU outlines four critical areas of focus:

1. Space and aviation: These sectors benefit from shared technologies and supply chains.
2. Life sciences and medical technology: Florida’s robust healthcare system aligns with the UK’s research-driven innovation.
3. Advanced technologies: This category includes artificial intelligence and quantum computing, influencing various industries from defense to healthcare.
4. Financial services: This comprises fintech and insurance, with UK firms playing a vital role in developing sophisticated payment systems and addressing Florida’s intricate coastal risk models.

These sectors were intentionally chosen due to their evident commercial potential and a mutual inclination toward innovation.

Unique strengths of the UK in fostering innovation

The cultural and entrepreneurial spirit shared by both Miami and London may be more profound than many realize. Both cities are distinguished by their multicultural environments and global connectivity, despite facing traffic challenges. The common language, historical connections, and cultural ties facilitate collaboration.

The relationship extends beyond the Miami-London dynamic; British firms are increasingly establishing a presence in cities such as Tampa, Jacksonville, and Orlando. Similarly, the UK has innovation hubs outside of London, including Scotland and Wales, which are emerging as leaders in fields such as space and advanced manufacturing.

A focus on aerospace and aviation

Florida’s thriving space industry has attracted significant interest from the UK, particularly in engaging both large corporations and smaller specialized suppliers with unique capabilities. The UK’s space industry was valued at approximately £18.6 billion ($24 billion) in 2025, and American companies are increasingly looking to British partners to fill gaps in their supply chains.

Following the signing of the MOU, a series of trade missions were organized, bringing around 20 UK space companies to Florida for networking opportunities in cities such as Orlando and Jacksonville. This initiative aims to create what Drabble describes as organized serendipity, where the right individuals are brought together to foster creativity and collaboration.

Future prospects and overcoming challenges

At the center of this transatlantic collaboration is Rufus Drabble, the British Consul General overseeing Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Based in Miami, Drabble plays a crucial role in strengthening the commercial and cultural ties between these dynamic regions. In a discussion with Refresh Miami, he provided insights into the origins of this partnership, the swift pace of collaboration, and the numerous opportunities available for startups and investors on both sides of the Atlantic.0

At the center of this transatlantic collaboration is Rufus Drabble, the British Consul General overseeing Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Based in Miami, Drabble plays a crucial role in strengthening the commercial and cultural ties between these dynamic regions. In a discussion with Refresh Miami, he provided insights into the origins of this partnership, the swift pace of collaboration, and the numerous opportunities available for startups and investors on both sides of the Atlantic.1

Addressing barriers to expansion

At the center of this transatlantic collaboration is Rufus Drabble, the British Consul General overseeing Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Based in Miami, Drabble plays a crucial role in strengthening the commercial and cultural ties between these dynamic regions. In a discussion with Refresh Miami, he provided insights into the origins of this partnership, the swift pace of collaboration, and the numerous opportunities available for startups and investors on both sides of the Atlantic.2

At the center of this transatlantic collaboration is Rufus Drabble, the British Consul General overseeing Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Based in Miami, Drabble plays a crucial role in strengthening the commercial and cultural ties between these dynamic regions. In a discussion with Refresh Miami, he provided insights into the origins of this partnership, the swift pace of collaboration, and the numerous opportunities available for startups and investors on both sides of the Atlantic.3

At the center of this transatlantic collaboration is Rufus Drabble, the British Consul General overseeing Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Based in Miami, Drabble plays a crucial role in strengthening the commercial and cultural ties between these dynamic regions. In a discussion with Refresh Miami, he provided insights into the origins of this partnership, the swift pace of collaboration, and the numerous opportunities available for startups and investors on both sides of the Atlantic.4