Welcome to the Regional Perspective, where I share stories that bring the Orlando 2045 Vision to life and highlight the progress shaping our region’s future.

1) Advancing a skills first future for the Orlando region – This week, the Orlando Economic Partnership was selected as one of only 12 organizations nationwide to join the Jobs for the Future’s Inquiry into Building Regional Skills First Ecosystems initiative, an effort made possible through the generous support of Walmart. This opportunity positions our region to accelerate the transition toward a skills based economy by engaging community partners, sharing insights, and developing actionable steps rooted in local research and lived experience. Our work will build directly on findings from our Closing the Gap: 2025 Orlando Talent Report, which highlights the persistent disconnect between the skills employers need and how talent is currently prepared and connected to opportunity. By advancing skills first practices, Central Florida employers can expand access to qualified talent, strengthen hiring outcomes, and align workforce strategies with real business needs. This is another important step in building a more competitive and inclusive regional economy.  

2) Columbus Chamber visits Orlando to learn from our innovation – We were pleased to welcome representatives from the Columbus Chamber of Commerce this week as they explored how Orlando is advancing regional collaboration and next generation planning tools. Their visit included a deep dive into our award-winning Orlando Regional Digital Twin, a national model for using data and visualization to guide growth and infrastructure decisions. It’s encouraging to see peer regions looking to Orlando for inspiration as we continue shaping a more innovative and future ready economy.  

3) Immerse energizes Downtown Orlando – Downtown Orlando will be alive this week as Immerse once again transforms our city center into a hub of creativity, innovation, and community engagement. The event continues to demonstrate the power of arts and culture to activate public spaces, attract regional audiences, and showcase the vibrancy that sets Orlando apart. These kinds of experiences are essential to strengthening our downtown identity and supporting the businesses and cultural institutions that make Orlando a global creative capital. Learn more. 

4) Strong governance and smart investment in Seminole County – Last week’s State of Seminole County highlighted the strength and consistency of the county’s government services, proof that responsible stewardship and long term planning continue to deliver real value for residents. Seminole’s commitment to putting taxpayer dollars to work efficiently and effectively was evident throughout the presentation, demonstrating how thoughtful investments enhance quality of life while supporting regional growth. Thank you to Seminole County Chair Andrea Herr for a thorough and insightful update on the county’s progress and priorities.

5) Orlando rallies behind the Lions – Orlando City SC kicks off its 2026 season at home this Saturday, Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m. against Red Bull New York, continuing the club’s 12-year tradition of opening in Downtown Orlando. These matches bring our region together, strengthening community pride and cultural connection. With 17 home games on the schedule, each one boosts local businesses and fuels broader economic activity across Central Florida. Get your tickets. 

6) Barbecue in the Park is just days away, get your tickets – Our annual Barbecue in the Park presented by VyStar Credit Union, is right around the corner, and you won’t want to miss one of the most enjoyable community building event of the year. This gathering brings together partners, leaders, and friends from across the region for great food and conversations, all in the heart of our city. Tickets are going fast, so now is the time to secure your spot and join us for an evening that celebrates everything that makes Orlando such a connected, collaborative region. Register now.  

7) Leadership Orlando Class 110 now enrolling – Leadership Orlando, our nation’s largest community leadership program, will launch Class 110 in March, continuing a legacy of developing leaders who help shape the future of Central Florida. With more than 7,500 graduates, the program brings together rising and established leaders from across our region to deepen their understanding, broaden their networks, and build skills for community impact. Class 110 will be led by Annie Roberts, Senior Vice President of Club & Owner Services at Travel + Leisure Co., whose people first leadership and operational excellence make her an exceptional guide for this journey. Enrollment is open through February 27. I encourage leaders across our business community to be part of this transformational experience. Enroll today.

Programs & Events

Leadership Orlando Class 110 // Feb. 20 Enrollment Deadline // LEARN MORE & ENROLL TODAY

Barbecue in the Park presented by VyStar Credit Union // Feb. 25 // REGISTER TODAY – SELLING OUT SOON

Regional Leadership Conference presented by Universal Orlando Resort // Mar. 27 // REGISTER TODAY 

2026 Washington, D.C. Advocacy Trip presented by BakerHostetler // May 19-21 // SAVE THE DATE (Open to OEP Investors at the Ambassador, Director, and Governors Council levels ONLY)

ICYMI

Spanish airline reveals flight schedule for inaugural summer season in Orlando – Orlando Business Journal

U.S. housing starts rose in November, December – Wall Street Journal

Meet the women who mean business 2026 – Orlando Business Journal

Lake Nona Art Festival returns this weekend – Orlando Sentinel

City-owned lakefront land could draw bidders as downtown Kissimmee development heats up – Orlando Business Journal

Florida’s Turnpike opens expanded segment in Lake County as part of $10B project – Orlando Business Journal

Dignitas Technologies sold as region’s $7B defense training sector grows – Orlando Business Journal

Onward,

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Tim Giuliani
ORLANDO ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

About the Author

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By Tim Giuliani President & CEO

Tim Giuliani is a national leader in growing cities that deliver economic growth. His approach is centered on the powerful concept that making investments to build a place where people want to live and visit will attract the companies where people want to work.  As President and CEO of the Orlando Economic Partnership, his leadership has helped attract over 30,000 new jobs, $3.6 billion in capital investment, and $3.3 billion in annual payroll. Tim’s collaborative work with elected, higher education, and private sector leaders led to the investment of $500 million in investment into the Florida semiconductor cluster. Giuliani's work to advance broad-based prosperity is focused on cultivating civic leadership and bringing those leaders together to align around the long-term opportunities and challenges that face metro communities.

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