At Opportunity Miami, we’re constantly looking ahead—at the people, projects, and ideas shaping Miami’s economic and sustainable future. But every so often, it’s worth taking a step back to revisit stories from the archives that not only made an impact when first featured, but continue to evolve in exciting ways today.
In this newsletter, our team is highlighting a few standout On Site video features and Interviews that still spark conversation, fresh insight, and a renewed sense of possibility for what’s next.
Taking Flight: Doroni Aerospace and the Future of Urban Air Mobility
“eVTOLs present an incredible opportunity for the future of mobility in South Florida and major metropolitan areas facing transportation challenges. While some may see the technology and implementation as far-fetched and science fiction, companies like Doroni Aerospace are betting big they can scale it and make it a reality.”
– Chris, Production
When we first visited Doroni Aerospace, the idea of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Miami seemed futuristic. Yet today, this once “sci-fi” vision is moving closer to reality. Doroni and other players are actively working on scaling this technology, aiming to address one of Miami’s most pressing challenges: transportation. As we continue grappling with congestion in a rapidly growing city, innovations like this could redefine urban mobility in ways we only imagined a few years ago.
A Town That Planned for Tomorrow: Babcock Ranch
“Babcock Ranch is such a great example of what’s possible with a strong cohesive vision – a town right here in Florida that’s powered by solar, with stormwater management built in, high-speed internet to every home, and even – roundabouts!”
– Az, Product & Operations
When we featured Babcock Ranch, it was already making headlines as America’s first solar-powered town. Years later, it continues to inspire city planners and community leaders nationwide who are thinking about resilience and sustainability. Miami, with its climate vulnerabilities, has much to learn from this model of integrating technology, infrastructure, and community design.
Robots Roll On: From Kiwibot to Robot.com
“With its rebrand to Robot.com, Kiwibot is showing just how fast robotics is scaling — from campus sidewalks to stadiums, with new services like advertising, cargo delivery, and even robot rentals. It’s a glimpse of how autonomous technology will integrate into everyday community life.”
– Jennifer, Operations
Kiwibot’s small delivery robots were creating buzz on campuses and city sidewalks when we followed one along the Brickell neighborhood a year ago. The company has since rebranded as Robot.com—with ambitions far beyond food delivery. From advertising and cargo-capacity services to potential partnerships with local sports teams, their evolution highlights just how fast the robotics sector is advancing. Revisiting their story now is a reminder of how quickly startups can scale and pivot—and how Miami can be a launchpad for their next big chapter.
Miami Innovation Meets Human Health: Insightec
“The level of research and biotech innovation happening in Miami is truly remarkable. Insightec’s focused ultrasound technology is a minimally invasive, precision treatment of essential tremor with a mouse click. This procedure can be life-changing for so many people!”
– Mika, Social Media
When Dr. Maurice Ferré asked, ‘How on earth did we ever do surgeries where we open people up?” he wasn’t just reflecting on medicine, but on Miami’s role in advancing global health innovation. As we learned in our interview with the Miami native, Insightec represents the kind of bold, transformative work that cements Miami as more than a lifestyle hub—it’s becoming a center of medical breakthroughs. The company’s groundbreaking use of focused ultrasound allows doctors to treat essential tremors with the click of a mouse—no invasive surgery required.
Powering Industry with the Sun: Costex Corp.
“Next time you fly into Miami International Airport, look down at the sea of flat-roofed buildings. Imagine if every one of them were covered in solar panels, harnessing the sun that beats down on our city every day. Costex Corp.—a true Made in Miami company—shows us that manufacturing and sustainability can not only coexist, but thrive together.”
- Suzette, Editorial
Costex Corp., a Miami-based manufacturer and distributor of replacement parts for heavy machinery, has reimagined its operations with solar power and energy-efficient design, as we saw in our visit to the 450,000-square-foot facility in west Miami-Dade. More than 4,000 solar panels—one of the largest solar roofs in the county— provide nearly all of the building’s energy needs. The site also incorporates skylights for natural light, motion-sensor LEDs, industrial-grade fans, double-paned windows for cooling, and green space for employees. By integrating sustainability into every part of its operations, Costex demonstrates how industrial companies can reduce costs, lower their carbon footprint, and drive Miami’s green transition while remaining globally competitive.
Looking Ahead
These stories remind us that innovation is not a moment—it’s a continuum. From air mobility to resilient cities, robotics to precision medicine, Miami has been home to ideas that once seemed ambitious but are steadily becoming part of our everyday lives. As our region continues to grow, the Opportunity Miami team will continue to feature – and revisit – the breakthroughs happening closer to home.
PITCH US
If you have a company or an entrepreneur to suggest or an idea to share that relates to building Miami’s future, email us at next@opportunity.miami. We invite you to subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on our social media channels. If you were forwarded this newsletter, you can subscribe by clicking here. And if you are new to Opportunity Miami, you can learn about our mission and work here.
~ Opportunity Miami