The Awning Factory (TAF) is a premium sun covering manufacturing company located in the economically distressed Orlando area community of Belle Isle. New Markets Tax Credit financing supported the expansion of TAF’s manufacturing operation and brought jobs to the local community.

The expected economic boom post-COVID-19 enticed TAF to expand its current product offerings. This expansion had a tremendous impact on the local community. Over 66 new full-time positions will be created, and TAF has plans to enact a hiring process that utilizes intentional diversity and inclusion hiring strategies. The company decided to dedicate 10 positions to previously incarcerated individuals, and 10 positions to veterans. They also have a goal to ensure that 60% of all new hires are African American, and 62.5% of new leadership positions extend to African Americans as well.