Welcome to this week’s regional perspective, where we highlight key updates including Ed Timberlake receiving the 2025 James B. Greene Award, insights from a year of strategic vision from the ACCE a strong Q4 market performance, a call to shape the future of transportation, and OEP’s involvement in key industry events, and other news worth sharing with your networks.

1) Ed Timberlake honored with 2025 James B. Greene Award – This week, the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) proudly presented Ed Timberlake with the 2025 James B. Greene Award at Judson’s Live at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. This prestigious award honors individuals whose leadership and contributions have made a lasting impact on the economic growth and quality of life in the Orlando region. Timberlake, Chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center and a founding donor, was recognized for his nearly 20 years of dedication to the arts and his significant role in shaping Central Florida’s cultural and business landscape. The James B. Greene Award celebrates the legacy of selfless service, and leaders like Ed are crucial in driving our community forward. His unwavering commitment to Central Florida, from his leadership in the arts to his service across multiple sectors, serves as an inspiration for future generations of leaders. We’re grateful to Dr. Phillips’ team for hosting this memorable event at the Judson’s Live venue, which celebrated its first anniversary yesterday. Ed Timberlake will also speak at the Partnership’s First Annual Regional Leadership Conference on May 2, 2025. Read more here about the event and See photos here.

2) A year of insight and strategic vision for Orlando’s future — Over the past year, I had the privilege of co-chairing a pivotal initiative organized by the Association of Chambers of Commerce Executives (ACCE). Together, we’ve worked to identify the top influences shaping the future of our work over the next decade. The results of this initiative are compiled into a concise and engaging report that I highly recommend reading—it’s thought-provoking and will challenge your perspectives. Some of the trends we identified are areas where we are already well-prepared, while others present new challenges we’ll need to navigate in innovative ways. As we move forward with finalizing our five-year strategic plan to advance the Orlando 2045 vision, it’s crucial we tap into the collective wisdom and expertise of our industry colleagues. I’m excited to engage in dynamic conversations where we can discuss these insights and how they can guide our work ahead. See more here.

3) Help shape the future of transportation in Central Florida — With 1,000 added to our region’s population every week, now is the time to plan for the future of transportation in the Orlando region. What’s your vision for the year 2050? MetroPlan Orlando wants your input to ensure the Metropolitan Transportation Plan reflects the community’s needs and values. Take just two minutes to share your thoughts in the quick survey. Your feedback will help guide how our region’s transportation system grows, evolves, and connects over the next few decades. Let’s drive Central Florida into the future together. Take the survey now.

4) Osceola Prosper continues to empower future leaders – The Osceola County Board of Commissioners has officially extended the Osceola Prosper program for 2025 graduates, offering free college or technical education for every high school graduate in Osceola County. This initiative is pivotal in advancing Broad-based Prosperity across our region by ensuring that financial barriers are eliminated, making higher education accessible to all. Whether pursuing an associate degree or hands-on technical training, students simply need to complete the FAFSA application and any remaining tuition and fees for Valencia College or Osceola Technical College (oTECH) will be fully covered. This incredible opportunity is key to developing a skilled workforce, strengthening our local economy, and providing students with the tools they need to succeed in the ever-evolving job market. See more here.

5) Q4 Market Update: Orlando sees strong growth and exciting new developments – Our Q4 Market Update is in, and it’s packed with exciting developments. Universal Orlando Resort has announced that Epic Universe will open in May, adding a major attraction to the region. Business and consumer sentiment are both on the rise, and unemployment is closing out 2024 at a low three percent. Regional employment has reached a significant milestone, with over 1.5 million jobs, and SunRail ridership is up for the third consecutive year. Meanwhile, home price growth is starting to level off, moving to a more sustainable pace. As we wrapped up the year, we’re celebrating Orlando Pride’s historic achievement as the first professional sports team in the city to win a major league trophy. Read more here.

6) Orange Appeal celebrates 16 years of honoring Women of the Year – On Wednesday, February 5, a special celebration was held at Judson’s Live at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, marking 16 years of honoring incredible women in our community. This year’s honorees—Jennifer Evins, Ashley Vann, Kay Rawlins, and Michelle Sperzel—were celebrated for their outstanding contributions. A special congratulations to Jennifer Evins and Kay Rawlins, both OEP Board Members, for their leadership and dedication. Their inspiring work continues to make a profound impact on our community! See the Women of the Year issue.

7) OEP explores key insights at FP&L illumination event — The FPL Powering Florida Illumination Conference brought together professionals committed to fostering a thriving environment for businesses and communities. Abigail Wagner and Jack Bojinov from the OEP’s economic development team participated in valuable sessions on utility industry trends, best practices for large industrial and data center projects, and the critical role of site development in today’s industrial market. These insights will be shared with local partners and leveraged to advance the D.I.R.T. (Development Initiative for Regional Transformation) committee, which recently held its first meeting. The event also provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen relationships with top site selectors and key partners, including Florida Power & Light, Space Florida, and the Florida Department of Commerce. We thank FP&L for the invitation and look forward to continuing our collaboration on future projects and initiatives. See more here.

8) The City of Orlando celebrates 150 years and brings back IMMERSE Fest to Downtown Orlando — Congratulations to the City of Orlando on the kickoff of the Sesquicentennial Celebration. Over the last 150 years, Orlando has grown from a small town to a globally recognized city, and today, we celebrate all the progress made in creating a vibrant, inclusive community. We’re proud to be a partner in Orlando’s ongoing journey and look forward to many more years of collaboration, economic development, and prosperity in our region. This month, 10 city blocks in downtown Orlando are being transformed by Creative City Project’s IMMERSE Fest, presented by AdventHealth Central Florida. From February 21-23 hundreds of performances and interactive art installations will be offering immersive experiences that make every moment and space come alive. As a vital part of the region’s cultural fabric, the arts play a crucial role in shaping Orlando’s identity. See more about Orlando 150^th anniversary and about IMMERSE Fest here.

9) Apply now for the 2025 BBLI nonprofit track —Applications are now being accepted for the 2025 for the 2025 Black Boardroom Leadership Institute (BBLI) nonprofit track. BBLI is committed to ensuring that Orlando’s nonprofit leadership reflects our vibrant community. The program fosters an environment where all leaders have a voice at the table, not just a seat on the roster. Eligible 501c3 nonprofit organizations in the Orlando region are encouraged to apply. For more information and to submit an application, visit Orlando.org/BBLI.

10) Last chance to register for Leadership Orlando class 108 – Developing and connecting regional leaders is essential to the success of our community. Leadership Orlando offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with leaders from the public, private, and independent sectors throughout Central Florida. It equips you with the knowledge, tools, and experiences to enhance both your professional and personal growth. This is your final chance to register for Leadership Orlando Class 108 and step into the circle of decision-making that drives change. Mike Kilbride, Executive Chief of Staff at the University of Central Florida, serves as the Chair of Leadership Orlando Class 108. With his extensive leadership experience, Mike is dedicated to guiding the next generation of leaders in Central Florida. Register now.

Programs & Events       

2025 BBLI Nonprofit Track – Deadline to Apply // February 10 // APPLY TODAY

Leadership Orlando Class 108 – Deadline to Enroll // February 14 // ENROLL TODAY 

2025 Barbecue in the Park presented by VyStar Credit Union // February 25 // Luminary Green Park // EARLY BIRD PRICES END SOON – REGISTER TODAY

2025 Washington, D.C. Advocacy Trip // May 12-14 // SAVE THE DATE 

ICYMI 

Orlando airport seeks new restaurants, retail for 60K SF – Orlando Business Journal

Epic Universe promises to boost Central Florida’s economy, just how big will the impact be? – WFTV

Lockheed Martin lands major U.S. Navy contract, hundreds of jobs for Space Coast – OrlandoInno

AdventHealth kicks off construction on Meadow Woods ER (PHOTOS) – Orlando Business Journal

OUC plugs into Orlando energy startup – OrlandoInno

Orlando homeowners turn to new selling model for financial flexibility – Orlando Business Journal