Our Mission
The primary purpose to be promoted or carried out by the Northeast Florida Economic Development Corporation (NEFEDC) is as follows:
Advance the economic development and public welfare of a portion of northeast Florida by promoting and assisting the growth and development of businesses, including the encouragement of public and private partnerships, coordinate planning and development, leverage resources, provide and develop leadership for economic and development activities and any other community development activities deemed a priority by the Corporation. The principal objectives of the Corporation shall be to benefit the community by increasing employment opportunities and the establishment and expansion of business and industry for the citizens of Bradford and Union Counties and portions of Clay, Putnam and Alachua Counties, Florida.
MISSION STATEMENT :
The mission of the Northeast Florida Economic Development Corporation is to empower the Northeast Florida region through strategic economic initiatives, fostering public-private alliances, catalyzing business growth, and enhancing workforce opportunities, all aimed at securing a resilient and prosperous future for all stakeholders.
VISION STATEMENT :
Our vision is to position Northeast Florida as a cornerstone of economic innovation and sustainability, where new and existing businesses flourish, communities experience enhanced economic prosperity, and opportunities for employment and growth are plentiful, for all stakeholders.
OUR PRIMARY GOALS :
Build Robust Public-Private Partnerships
Our organization is committed to establishing, sustaining, and enhancing collaborations between public institutions and private enterprises. We believe that synergistic partnerships are pivotal in optimizing resources and expertise, thereby amplifying the impact of our developmental initiatives.
Drive Business Expansion and Innovation
We aim to be catalysts for business growth, focusing especially on innovative sectors that add substantial value to our region. By doing so, we further our mission of job creation and contribute to a vibrant local economy.
Elevate Community Economic Opportunity
At the heart of our mission lies the commitment to improve the overall economic well-being of our communities. Our aim is to lay the foundations for a resilient, flourishing region that will benefit current and future generations.
Meet The Team
NEFEDC has an exceptional group of team members. We pride ourselves on our talent and expertise.
Evan Douglas
Chair & Chief Executive Officer
Evan Douglas, owner of Evan Douglas Construction (EDC), founded in 2015, brings extensive experience in general contracting for both residential and commercial construction projects.
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As a lifelong resident of the region, Evan’s deep understanding of local market dynamics and building requirements makes him a valuable resource to the Northeast Florida Economic Development Corporation's Board. As a general contractor, Evan plays a pivotal role in economic development by overseeing essential construction projects across commercial and residential sectors.
These projects enhance infrastructure, attract businesses, and boost local economies through job creation and improved community facilities. His deep understanding and foresight of market dynamics in both commercial and residential construction enables strategic planning and investment in infrastructure projects that are timely and economically beneficial, fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the overall business environment in the region.
James Coats
Vice President
James Coats is the Executive Director of Continuing and Community Education at Santa Fe College, where he builds strong partnerships with community leaders to support workforce and education initiatives.
NEFEDC
With a background spanning entrepreneurship, defense technology, and advanced manufacturing, he has developed life-saving innovations and advised federal agencies on protective technologies. In addition to his professional career, James is dedicated to community impact. He founded Superheroes for Hope, a nonprofit that uplifts children facing serious illnesses, and has donated more than $1.5 million to expand STEM and STEAM education programs across Alachua County schools. Through his ability to connect education, business, and community leadership, James brings valuable insight to NEFEDC. His expertise in strategic growth and innovation strengthens the organization’s mission to drive economic development and enhance the region’s competitiveness across Northeast Florida.
Anthony Graves
Treasurer
Anthony Graves is a seasoned expert in construction
engineering and inspection, with over 18 years of
experience working with the Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT). As a CEI Project Administrator,
he has overseen numerous significant infrastructure
projects, including roadways, bridges, and Intelligent
Transportation Systems (ITS) across multiple FDOT
districts. His technical proficiency and leadership
skills have been instrumental in the successful
completion of high-profile projects, ensuring compliance
with FDOT specifications and delivering quality
construction on time and within budget.
Anthony's extensive experience and deep understanding
of the construction landscape make him a valuable
asset to the Northeast Florida Economic
Development Corporation (NEFEDC) Board of Directors.
His insights into infrastructure development and
project management are expected to significantly
contribute to the economic growth and development
initiatives of Bradford County and the surrounding region.
Anthony Graves
Soo Gilvarry
Secretary
Soo Gilvarry, CEO of a successful real estate development company, brings over 15 years of expertise in corporate finance, distribution, and international shipping to her role. Her extensive experience in revitalization projects, including her ownership of Jacksonville’s historic Furchgott’s building, aligns with NEFEDC’s mission to stimulate economic growth and community transformation. As a civic leader, Soo’s strategic insights are amplified through her service on numerous boards, including Treasurer of the Jacksonville Port Authority and leadership roles with the MOCA Board of Trustees, Jax Chamber, and Downtown Vision Inc. Her professional acumen and commitment to community improvement have been instrumental in advancing infrastructure and business development initiatives. Originally from Seoul, South Korea, Soo combines her global perspective with local impact. With degrees in Biology and Accounting, and as a current Master’s candidate in International Relations at Harvard Extension School, she is well-positioned to contribute to
NEFEDC’s vision of regional growth.
Soo Gilvarry
Derick Thomas
Immediate Past Chair
Derick Thomas has significantly contributed to economic development through his role as Chief Public Relations Officer at Clay Electric Cooperative. Since joining in 1999, Derick has effectively managed communications, government relations, and economic development initiatives across 15 Northeast Florida counties.
His leadership has driven Clay Electric's efforts in community engagement and development, leveraging his deep understanding of public relations to enhance economic opportunities within the region. In addition to his substantial role at Clay Electric Cooperative, Derick Thomas worked with the Florida Farm Bureau, leveraging his expertise in economic development to support the agricultural community, focusing on advocacy and policy shaping, aiming to foster sustainable agricultural practices and enhance economic opportunities for farmers throughout Florida. This involvement underscores his commitment to supporting foundational industries within the region, aligning with broader economic growth objectives.
Derick Thomas
Marty Shaw
Director
Marty Shaw brings over 25 years of banking and commercial real estate expertise to the table. His diverse experience in development, financing, and property management
makes him indispensable to NEFEDC.
He specializes in sales and leasing while having an in-depth knowledge of development,
financing, syndication, construction and property management.
Marty's leadership and involvement in key industry associations,
along with his foundational role in economic development initiatives,
underscore his commitment to fostering economic growth within the region.
Marty was a member of National Association of Industrial and Office Parks,
International Conference of Shopping Centers, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce,
and Clay County Chamber. He has also served as Board Member and Trustee of Clay County Chamber,
Founder and Board Member of Clay County Economic Development Commission,
and Officer/Board Member of University of Alabama Alumni Association.
Marty Shaw
Patricia Evans
Director
Patricia Evans combines her extensive banking background with deep community involvement. Serving as Community President for Capital City Bank in Bradford and Clay counties, she has been instrumental in forging client relationships while developing and executing successful growth strategies for the bank’s retail and commercial lines of business. Her leadership also extends to her past and current roles in the community as Board Chair for both CareerSource N. Central FL and the Bradford County Development Authority and as an active member of the Clay County Chamber of Commerce. In these roles, she has been instrumental in coordinating economic development efforts and supporting local businesses, showcasing her commitment to fostering community growth and prosperity. Patricia’s strategic efforts in the financial sector are a propelling force for the Northeast Florida Economic Development Corporation, fostering growth and empowering community initiatives.
Patricia Evans
General James Eifert
Director
Major General (Ret.) James O. Eifert brings decades of leadership and strategic
planning expertise to NEFEDC, having served as The Adjutant General for the State of
Florida. In this role, he led over 13,000 Florida National Guard personnel and oversaw
the Department of Military Affairs, aligning operational readiness with statewide
priorities. His experience commanding multi-level organizations and coordinating joint
efforts at national and international levels gives him a unique lens on infrastructure,
workforce, and investment readiness. Since retiring in 2023, General Eifert has
remained actively involved in community and economic development. As Chairman of
the Keystone Heights Airport Authority, he is a key driver in transforming the airport into
a catalyst for business and aviation investment. His public service extends through
youth mentorship, advocacy, and civic leadership. General Eifert’s leadership is
instrumental in shaping strategies that leverage regional assets and advance
sustainable economic opportunities across Northeast Florida.
General James Eifert
Kyla Frye
Director
Kyla Frye brings more than a decade of experience connecting business growth, innovation, and community development. As Business Development Director for Charles Perry Partners, Inc. (CPPI), she cultivates strategic relationships and new opportunities across Florida, with an emphasis on North Central Florida and the life sciences sector.
Her background spans science and technology real estate, commercial development, and entrepreneurial support. Previously, Kyla served as Executive Director of an innovation hub in Texas, where she expanded a regional business incubation program and co-founded an accelerator and coworking space—helping entrepreneurs access resources and build businesses.
Kyla’s community involvement includes chamber leadership, economic development committees, and mentoring emerging companies. She holds an MBA from West Texas A&M University and brings a collaborative approach to connecting businesses, development partners, and communities to advance regional
economic opportunity.
Kyla Frye
Kate Campbell
Director
Kate Campbell brings experience in business growth, market development, and nonprofit leadership to her work as Market Development Manager for Florida Blue. Based in Northeast Florida, she offers a perspective on the relationship between community health, business success, and regional economic vitality.
A Jacksonville native, Kate’s commitment to the region extends through her community service, including past service as President of the Board of Directors for L’Arche Jacksonville and board service with Catholic Charities Jacksonville. Her background combines business leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to strengthening the communities where people live and work.
Kate brings a collaborative approach to regional progress, recognizing that healthy families, strong community organizations, and a thriving workforce are essential foundations for lasting economic opportunity.
Kate Campbell
Daniel (Danny) Stefanelli
Director
Daniel (Danny) Stefanelli is the Co-Owner and General Manager of Bradford Sportsman’s Farm, a multigenerational, family-owned outdoor recreation, events, and tourism destination spanning nearly 200 acres in Northeast Florida.
Danny oversees daily business operations, financial management, staff supervision, capital improvements, property maintenance, and safety. He also manages customer and partner relationships and leads major events, including the Florida Challenge, which attracts participants, sponsors, and vendors from across the nation and contributes to the regional visitor economy.
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An eight-year United States Navy veteran, Danny brings discipline, accountability, and a commitment to service to his leadership.
He serves as a Director of the Northeast Florida Economic Development Corporation and on the Tourism Development Council, contributing practical experience in small business operations, workforce leadership, tourism, and family business continuity to strengthen local enterprise and advance regional economic opportunity.
Amber Shepherd
STRATEGIC ALLIANCE BUSINESS PARTNER
Amber Shepherd is the Strategic Alliances Business Partner
at Northeast Florida Economic Development Corporation (NEFEDC).
As a local business owner and global consultant with a dynamic
career in global B2B/B2C business development, customer service,
and operations across multiple industries, she brings a
wealth of knowledge and innovative strategies to her role.
Having nearly 15 years’ experience in workforce development,
Amber's roles in Career Services showcased her extensive
expertise in aligning educational outcomes with labor market
needs. Her experience enhances her ability to support
workforce initiatives at NEFEDC, promoting regional economic
growth through skilled workforce development. As a global
executive management consultant, she drives high-impact
marketing strategies, fostering growth through data-driven
insights. Amber's ability to turn complex business
challenges into strategic opportunities significantly
enhances her role at NEFEDC, fostering economic development
and community engagement while leading efforts to connect
the corporation with key initiatives both nationally and
internationally.
Amber Shepherd