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) Opening a new gateway to Asia – The arrival of Zipair Tokyo’s inaugural flight at Orlando International Airport (MCO) this week marks Florida’s first nonstop connection to the Asia-Pacific region, a major step toward strengthening Orlando’s global competitiveness. The Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) was proud to support this effort, which advances Vision 2045’s priority of expanding international connectivity, attracting investment, and opening new pathways for talent and business growth. Share the news.
2) Barbecue in the Park presented by VyStar Credit Union: strengthening regional relationships – This year’s Barbecue in the Park brought nearly 1,000 leaders together, reinforcing why it remains one of OEP’s most valuable networking events. These connections fuel collaboration across sectors and help build the unified regional leadership that Vision 2045 depends on to achieve long-term prosperity. Congratulations to the best in park – City Barbecue. View the photos here.
3) UCF launches its largest campaign ever – UCF’s historic $3.5 billion Go for Launch campaign will elevate research, innovation, workforce development, and partnerships, all vital components of our region’s economic strategy. A stronger UCF directly strengthens the region’s talent, research-driven industries, and broad-based opportunities. Read more.
4) Celebrating innovation at the Orlando Tech Summit – Last week Innovate Orlando, hosted the 2026 Orlando Tech Summit & Awards showcasing the strength of our region’s innovation ecosystem and energizing the startup and entrepreneurial community. Supporting this momentum is essential to our goal of becoming a top-tier tech and innovation hub. Congratulations to all of the honorees! See more.
5) Florida Semiconductor Summit puts focus on the state’s role as a hub for semiconductor innovation – The Florida Semiconductor Summit showcased the strong statewide and regional momentum around semiconductor manufacturing, talent development, and investments made to grow the industry. With leadership from the NSF Florida Semiconductor Engine, Osceola County’s NeoCity, and the state’s top-ranked university system, this critical sector is helping to position the Orlando region as a global innovation hub. Learn more.
6) New episodes of “The City Playbook” podcast released next week – Stay tuned for the release of the latest episode of “The City Playbook.” I’ll share the stories of leaders, innovators, and changemakers shaping Central Florida’s future. I’m most excited about drilling down into some timely topics including Downtown Orlando’s transformation. More details to come. Subscribe now!
Programs & Events
Leadership Orlando Class 110 // Mar. 6 Enrollment Deadline // LEARN MORE & ENROLL TODAY
Public Leadership Institute Civic Leadership Track // Mar. 6 Application Deadline // LEARN MORE & APPLY
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
Waymo launches self-driving taxis in Orlando – Orlando Business Journal
Miami Ridership company brings electric vehicles to Lake Nona – Orlando Business Journal
The looming Taiwan chip disaster that Silicon Valley has long ignored – New York Times
Onward,
Tim Giuliani
ORLANDO ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
