JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville business owners are entering the second quarter of 2026 with noticeably higher confidence—and a renewed focus on growth—according to Mark Bennett, Jacksonville president and Southeast regional executive for Bank of America.
In an interview on This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition, Bennett said business leaders across the region are increasingly asking how to position for the second half of the year, especially by ensuring they have the right financing in place. “Having the right capital…is really the difference between being able to capture an opportunity or miss an opportunity,” he said.
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Three priorities business owners are focusing on
Bennett shared three themes he’s hearing most often in conversations with local companies:
1) Digital reach and customer experience. Rather than focusing on technology for its own sake, Bennett said owners are putting the client at the center—mapping the digital customer journey, identifying pain points, and delivering the kind of seamless experience consumers now expect.
2) Mergers and acquisitions. With Jacksonville’s population growth expected to outpace national averages, Bennett said the city is attracting companies looking to enter or expand in the market. That’s fueling M&A activity—and creating opportunities not only for buyers, but for long-time owners preparing for a transition. Bennett noted 2025 was an all-time high year for M&A and 2026 is shaping up similarly.
3) Employee financial wellness. Companies are rethinking financial wellness from being a “perk” to being a strategy to reduce stress and improve retention. Bennett cited Bank of America survey findings that personal debt is a major strain for many workers and can affect productivity—prompting employers to consider a broader mix of benefits, from retirement options to HSAs and FSAs, alongside mental health support.
What sectors look strong—and what to watch
Bennett said he expects growth opportunities across Jacksonville’s economy, highlighting advanced manufacturing and fintech/financial services, while predicting healthcare will continue accelerating across the city. Technology also remains a key growth driver as more companies adopt AI tools to improve productivity.
On consumer behavior, Bennett said early-year indicators looked similar to 2025, with February spending reaching recent highs—while noting that factors like gas prices can still shift the outlook.
“No-regrets” moves in uncertain times
Asked what business owners can do even in a foggy environment, Bennett emphasized reviewing capital structure early, talking with banking partners before opportunities arise, and considering investments that improve productivity—potentially including AI.
He also flagged cybersecurity as a top underestimated risk, urging companies to go beyond written policies by testing procedures and training employees with real-world scenarios like phishing simulations.
For owners who feel stuck, Bennett’s recommendation is to convene key advisors—banker, CPA, attorney, and financial advisor—for a strategic planning conversation that can turn uncertainty into a workable plan.