Industries

* **Education:** The University of Florida, Santa Fe College, and Alachua County Public Schools are the bedrock of local employment. * **Healthcare & Medicine:** UF Health, HCA Florida North Florida Hospital, and the VA Medical Center employ thousands of medical professionals and staff. * **Biotechnology & Life Sciences:** A growing sector fueled by UF research, featuring companies focused on medical devices, genetics, and pharmaceuticals at the Sid Martin Biotech incubator. * **Technology & Startups:** Software development, agricultural technology, and clean energy startups cluster in the Innovation Square district. * **Tourism & Hospitality:** Driven largely by university-related events (Gator football games, graduations) and ecotourism centered around nearby springs and state parks. * **Government:** As a county seat and regional hub, local, state, and federal government offices provide significant employment.