$350,000 State Investment Launches Bloom Lab
A Youth Arts, Agriculture & Entrepreneurship Program in Jacksonville’s Phoenix Arts & Innovation District
JACKSONVILLE, FL — August 13, 2025
Friends of PHXJAX, the nonprofit arm of the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District, announced today the launch of Bloom Lab, a free after-school program for 6th–12th graders in Jacksonville’s North Springfield neighborhood. Thanks to $350,000 in funding from Governor Ron DeSantis, Senator Tracie Davis, Representative Wyman Duggan and the State of Florida, Bloom Lab will provide students with immersive educational experiences in arts, agriculture, and entrepreneurship, while creating pathways for personal growth, community engagement, and economic opportunity.
Bloom Lab will operate in 8-week learning cohorts where students rotate through hands-on workshops in gardening, creative arts, and business development. After completing their cohort, youth will collaborate to run a monthly, youth-led community market—selling produce they’ve grown, art they’ve created, and products they’ve designed. This market will serve as both a public event and a training ground for real-world business skills.
“North Florida After School Agriculture and Arts Programs is important to providing our youth with educational and creative opportunities that connect them with their community and environment,”
said Senator Tracie Davis, who sponsored the funding bill.
“This area deserves investment that honors its history while providing pathways for growth. It was essential for the state to contribute to ensure this project’s success and sustainability. PHX JAX is a perfect example of how thoughtful investment can uplift a neighborhood and build a stronger future for all constituents.”
Emily Moody, Chief Experience Officer for the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District, said:
“Bloom Lab will give young people the chance to explore their creativity, gain practical skills, and see how they can make a difference in their community. We deeply appreciate Governor DeSantis, Senator Davis, and Representative Duggan for believing in this vision.”
Tony Cho, CEO of the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District, added:
“This investment allows us to cultivate the next generation of leaders right here in North Springfield. By combining arts, agriculture, and entrepreneurship, Bloom Lab is a perfect example of our regenerative placemaking approach, which give students the tools to thrive while contributing to the cultural and economic vitality of our city.”
Bloom Lab is scheduled to launch in late 2025 and run through June 2026. All programming will be hosted at the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District in North Springfield, leveraging its community gardens, art studios, and flexible event spaces.
About Friends of PHXJAX
Friends of PHXJAX is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the regenerative development of the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District in Jacksonville’s North Springfield neighborhood. Through arts, culture, agriculture, and small business support, Friends of PHXJAX fosters community engagement, economic opportunity, and neighborhood revitalization.
Press Conference Details:
Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM ET
Location: Emerald Station, Phoenix Arts & Innovation District, 2320 N Liberty Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
Speakers (in order of appearance): Emily Moody, Tony Cho, Senator Tracie Davis, Mayor Donna Deegan
Photo Opportunity: Large check presentation following remarks
Media Contact:
Emily Moody
emoody@phxjax.org
(904) 945.8686
www.phxjax.org