Lift Off! Navigating the Growth of the Commercial Space Industry

In this episode of our "Florida Capital Conversations" podcast series, Tallahassee transportation and regulatory compliance attorney Katie Inman discusses the rapid growth of Florida's commercial space industry and what it means for stakeholders. Drawing on her senior experience at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and as former general counsel to Florida's Attorney General, Ms. Inman talks about the surge in FAA-licensed launches and breaks down how private investment and new laws are accelerating the sector. She highlights major federal developments – including the executive order to streamline launch licensing and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews, bond financing incentives for spaceport infrastructure and Space Command/Space Force initiatives – as well as Florida's 2025 legislation establishing the International Aerospace Innovation Fund and expanding seaport-spaceport infrastructure support. She additionally explains Space Florida's unique role as an economic development entity, reviews anticipated timelines for infrastructure versus research funding and shares practical steps for companies to engage in this rapidly growing field. This Tallahassee-based podcast series takes a look at the many different aspects of state and local government through the lens of experienced legal professionals. Hosted by attorneys Nathan Adams and Mia McKown, these candid conversations offer a seat at the table to everyone who listens.