Welcome to this week’s Regional Perspective, where I share stories that bring the Orlando 2045 Vision to life and highlight the progress shaping our region’s future.
1) Orlando’s story reaches a global audience – Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and I joined NYSE Live at the New York Stock Exchange to share Orlando’s growth story with a global audience. The conversation highlighted how our region is becoming a leading destination for innovation, talent and investment, and a globally recognized, opportunity-rich economy. Read more and watch the replay.
2) New forum brings candidates for Orange County Mayor to the debate stage – The Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) is proud to partner with WFTV Channel 9 to host a live debate featuring the candidates for Orange County Mayor, a race that will help shape the future of the county and the entire Central Florida region. Decisions related to economic development, transportation, housing, infrastructure and quality of life will influence our region’s competitiveness and progress toward the Orlando 2045 Vision. As part of our commitment to engaging the broader community in the issues that matter most, we encourage residents, business leaders and stakeholders to tune in and hear directly from the candidates. Join moderators Martha Sugalski and Greg Warmoth for the live debate on August 4 at 8 p.m. and be part of the conversation.
3) Talent growth continues to power the region – The latest OEP Market Snapshot shows Orlando’s labor force grew by more than 18,000 people over the past year, while wages rose faster than inflation. Although consumer spending has softened, the region continues to benefit from a strong workforce and growing talent pipeline. Access the latest snapshot.
4) Changes underway to create a more vibrant Downtown Orlando – The groundbreaking of the Church Street Festival Street project marks another step toward creating a more vibrant and active downtown. Investments in walkable, engaging urban spaces help support local businesses and advance the region’s focus on creating great places for people to live, work and gather. Share the news.
5) Investments spur more economic development wins for the region – Recent announcements from Rapta, Coke Florida and Unusual Machines demonstrate a trend we continue to see across the region: investment attracts investment. These expansions strengthen Orlando’s advanced manufacturing and aerospace sectors while creating high-value jobs that support a more diversified economy. Here’s more context around why these expansions matter.
6) Connecting Orlando to the world – Virgin Atlantic’s move to Terminal C at Orlando International Airport marks a major milestone in the airports ongoing effort to elevate the passenger experience with the opening of a new wing supporting gate expansion. Strong global air service strengthens business relationships, supports tourism and reinforces Orlando’s role as an internationally connected region. Read more.
7) Enroll now in Leadership Orlando Class 111 – We are proud to announce Linda Ferrone, chief customer and marketing officer at OUC- The Reliable One, as Class Chair. Linda brings a wealth of leadership experience to this role, having led customer experience, innovation, and community engagement initiatives at one of the nation’s top public power utilities. Leadership Orlando, with more than 50 years of developing the next generation of civic and business leaders, brings together professionals from across industries to engage in the critical conversations shaping our region’s future. Enrollment deadline is Friday, August 14. Learn more and enroll.
8) Celebrating manufacturing excellence – Congratulations to Hernon Manufacturing, JST Power Equipment and ILLUMUS for earning Manufacturer of the Year honors from the Manufacturers Association of Central Florida. Their leadership in innovation, technology and workforce development reflects the strength of the industry sectors helping shape Orlando’s future economy. Share the news.
Programs & Events
PLI Political Leaders Track // Application Deadline Extended to July 10 // LEARN MORE & ENROLL
Leadership Orlando Class 111 // August 14 Enrollment Deadline // LEARN MORE & ENROLL
LEADForward Roundtables Fall 2026 Cohort // August 14 Application Deadline // LEARN MORE & ENROLL
Leadership Orlando Alumni Association – Stay connected, continue leading, and help shape what’s next for our region // LEARN MORE & JOIN
Listening to Leaders: Leading Through Innovation // August 21 // Participation open to Leadership Orlando Graduates ONLY // Questions? Nate.Edmund@orlando.org
2026 Executive Leadership Mission to Austin – Sept. 23-25 // Early Bird ends Friday, July 31 or when capacity is reached // REGISTER TODAY // Interested in being a sponsor? Contact Katie.Thomason@orlando.org
ICYMI
Developer sought to transform 102-year-old downtown Orlando building – Orlando Business Journal
Florida Cities Are Already Cutting Spending Ahead of Pivotal Property-Tax Vote – Wall Street Journal
Orange County to buy $13 M hotel next to jail as possible homeless housing – Orlando Sentinel
Long-stalled Oviedo Mall transformation takes major step toward mixed-use makeover – Orlando Business Journal
