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) Strengthening relationships and attracting investment during New York City Mission – This week, the OEP’s New York City Mission presented by Truist brought together a cross-sector delegation from many of our region’s top employers and regional governments to advance Orlando’s economic competitiveness on a national stage. Over two days, the delegation of more than 20 influential leaders executed a targeted schedule of 10+ strategic meetings with global companies, positioning Orlando as the premier destination for expansion across sectors such as fintech, life sciences, aviation, and advanced manufacturing. By strengthening relationships with industry leaders, attracting investment, and aligning public and private sector leadership, the mission is a prime example of how collective action accelerates progress toward a more innovative, inclusive, and globally competitive economy. Thank you to presenting sponsor Truist for helping convene such high-level engagement. View photos.
2) Remembering the 49 – As our community marks the 10-year anniversary of the Pulse tragedy, we pause to remember the 49 lives lost, honor the survivors and first responders, and reflect on the unity that continues to define Orlando. This milestone serves as a reminder of both profound loss and the strength that emerged in its wake. Throughout early June, the City of Orlando invites the community to come together in remembrance and healing. Events include the CommUNITY Rainbow Run on June 6, the Prayer Ribbons Memorial Exhibition at City Hall from June 8–14, and the “Created in Community: Portraits of Pulse” exhibition honoring each of the 49 victims through collaborative artwork on display in City Hall through August 23. On Friday, June 12, the Pulse Remembrance Ceremony will bring the community together in a collective moment of reflection, featuring a reading of the 49 names, musical performances, and a candlelight tribute. We encourage the region to take time to honor the lives of those we lost and reaffirm our commitment to compassion, inclusion, and standing united as one Orlando. Learn more.
3) Two headlines highlight Orlando’s reputation as a global sports city
– First, congratulations to the Orlando Magic on securing Sean Sweeney to lead the team as it builds on recent playoff appearances and elevates its young core. A rising NBA coaching talent, Sweeney brings experience from championship-caliber organizations, most recently serving as associate head coach for the San Antonio Spurs. His reputation for discipline, player development, and innovative strategy positions Orlando for its next phase of growth and reinforces our standing as a major league sports market committed to competing at the highest level. Read more.
– Second, congratulations to Orlando City SC on having three players earn spots on FIFA World Cup 2026 rosters. Goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau, midfielder Braian Ojeda, and forward Marco Pašalić will represent Canada, Paraguay, and Croatia on the global stage, underscoring the caliber of talent developing and competing here. This recognition is yet another example of Orlando’s standing as a major league sports city with international reach, reinforcing its growing reputation in global soccer. on this achievement. Read more
5) Introducing the Orlando Tech Connect newsletter – Yesterday you may have noticed a new newsletter from OEP SVP of Innovation and Economic Development, Sheena Fowler. I’m pleased to announce we’ve launched Orlando Tech Connect newsletter, a refreshed effort to capture the full breadth and depth of the region’s tech and startup ecosystem. This newsletter is designed to go beyond headlines by connecting the dots across industries, companies, and communities, helping leaders see how individual wins add up to something bigger. From semiconductors and space to AI, simulation, and advanced manufacturing, the Orlando region is evolving into a more integrated, market-driven tech hub. And, just like the Regional Perspective, each edition will feature a brief video where Sheena will help make those connections clearer and more actionable. Watch the video [LINK] and subscribe via any of the forms across Orlando.org.
6) Early bird pricing now open: Executive Leadership Mission to Austin – Secure your spot for the Orlando Economic Partnership’s 2026 Executive Leadership Mission, taking place September 23–25 in Austin, Texas. This signature experience brings together business and civic leaders for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the nation’s fastest-growing innovation hubs, with curated site visits, leadership discussions, and peer-to-peer engagement designed to inform Orlando’s path to becoming a top 10 innovation hub. Take advantage of early bird pricing for a limited time and join us as we gain insights to advance the Orlando 2045 Vision. Register Today! Interested in being a sponsor? Contact Katie.Thomason@orlando.org.
7) PLI Political Leaders Track applications now open – The OEPs Public Leadership Institute’s Political Leaders Track will officially begin accepting applications from now until June 26. This program is designed for those interested in running for public office in the future and need that first step. The PLI Political Track has had more than 30 graduates serve in state and local elected offices. If you are interested or know a business leader who is interested, this is a great opportunity. Apply today.
8) Join OUC’s Linda Ferrone for Leadership Orlando Class 111 – Leadership Orlando’s next class will be guided by seasoned regional leader Linda Ferrone, Chief Customer and Marketing Officer at OUC, The Reliable One, serving as Chair of Class 111. Ferrone brings extensive experience in customer strategy, brand leadership, and community engagement, helping shape a cohort to lead with purpose and collaboration. As Leadership Orlando celebrates more than 50 years and 7,000 alumni, the program continues to convene leaders who are ready to tackle complex regional issues and drive Central Florida forward. Class 111 begins September 10, 2026, with enrollment open through August 14. Learn more and apply at Leadership Orlando.
We’re Hiring – Vice President of Economic Development / Learn more and apply.
Programs & Events
PLI Political Leaders Track// June 26 Application Deadline // 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
2026 Executive Leadership Mission to Austin // Early Bird ends Friday, July 31 or when capacity is reached // REGISTER TODAY // Interested in being a sponsor? Contact Katie.Thomason@orlando.org
ICYMI
Take the Q2 2026 Orlando MSA Business Conditions Survey
Michelin Guide adds 7 Central Florida restaurants – Orlando Business Journal
Orlando and Central Florida Experience a New Economic Boom Driven by Growth, Jobs, and Investment – The Sun Post
College football games locked in for Orlando’s downtown stadium during ongoing renovations – Orlando Business Journal
Non-profits in central Florida gain exposure on new LYNX bus – WFTV
Blue Origin targets year-end launch as Space Coast contractors eye new opportunities – Orlando Business Journal
Orlando Health ramps up expansion with new hospital campus, ER – Orlando Business Journal
Duke Energy implements third reduction to lower residential customer bills by about 25%
