Central Florida’s Leaders Determine Shared Priorities
at Community Leadership Conference

January 18 l January 19 l January 20

ORLANDO, Fla. – Three of the area’s leading business organizations were joined by more then 250 community leaders to discuss how the Central Florida region can remain competitive in the new global economy. The Central Florida Partnership, the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission and the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc., sponsored this past weekend’s Community Leadership Conference, themed “Going Global Together”.

According to polling of the group, the audience went from having a moderate understanding of the three organizations, their missions and how they interact together, to the majority indicating a good or expert understanding. This information, along with other data regarding transportation, social issues, crime, growth and property tax reform was presented during the three-day conference, was used to help determine opportunities and gaps where success is not attainable independently. Feedback from participants indicated four regional priorities:

1. Transportation – this was the dominant agenda item that touched visitors, residents and businesses. Improving infrastructure will take planning, communication.
2. Economic Diversification – nurture the industries that have built Orlando, but also use the total community assets to help the Central Florida Region become a global force in many industries – including biomedical and video game development which will attract businesses, new residents and new economic streams.

1. Enhanced Collaborative Approach – ensure that the resources of the organizations are maximized and leveraged by sharing and linking the expansive libraries of data; obtain clarity on common challenges and priorities; communicate to government, businesses and citizens to move toward understanding and resolution of challenges and issues; and cross-pollinate boards so information is constantly shared and integrated in decisions.
2. Brand Alignment and Promoting Assets to the World – work even closer to create one brand for the region with relevant stories for the different audiences. Create and articulate compelling stories of how the region is building on a tremendous framework and is being enhanced by growth. Look for additional opportunities to collaborate in reaching primary and emerging markets with greater frequency.

When looking at the economic progress that our region has experienced during the last eighteen months and the potential for even more in the months and years ahead, assembling the boards of directors, volunteer leadership teams, investors, members and supporters of the respective organizations is clearly necessary to keep the region competitive in the global marketplace. The Community Leadership Conference was the beginning step of harnessing the power of collaboration, not the only step.

The Caucus Committee, comprised of 18 people nominated by the organizations and responsible for the conference moving in a meaningful direction, will draft a report of discussions, findings and action steps. The three organizations will re-convene to determine next steps, responsibilities and timelines on the four priorities. The group will hold a similar conference next year.

Media Contact:
Danielle Courtenay, APR
407-354-5586