The Orlando Economic Partnership’s 2024 Annual Dinner was a showcase of regional success and visionary leadership that gathered a mix of partners, investors, political figures, and local luminaries, celebrating the collective triumphs and future aspirations of the Orlando organization. Former board chair Thomas K. Sittema of the Orlando Economic Development Commission, and executive chairman and co-founder of StepStone Private Wealth, was honored with the James B. Greene Award.
The event, held at the University of Central Florida and sponsored by Amazon, Nemours Children’s Hospital, and others, showcased the region’s commitment to fostering economic opportunities.
Spectrum News 13 anchor Ybeth Bruzual served as the emcee for the evening, which was sponsored by the University of Central Florida, for their invaluable support.
A highlight of the night was the presentation of the James B. Greene Award to Tom Sittema, former board chair of the Orlando Economic Development Commission and executive chairman of StepStone Private Wealth. Sittema’s contributions to education, health, wellness, and economic opportunity through initiatives like Lift Orlando were recognized, reflecting the spirit of civic stewardship embodied by the award.
Tim Giuliani, President and CEO of the OEP shared with the attendees how the organization continues to seize the moment to advance Broad-based Prosperity.
The annual dinner celebrated the collective fortitude of the community and highlighted achievements over the last 16 months. Notably, the region is on track to secure an impressive half-billion dollars in state and federal investments, establishing itself as a hub for domestic semiconductor manufacturing.
The collaborative efforts with Orange, Seminole, and Osceola Counties, along with the City of Orlando, have resulted in significant economic milestones. These include the creation of 4,300 new jobs with average wages of nearly $75,000 and driving regional investment of $620 million. Key projects such as BNY Mellon’s investment and the expansion of innovative companies contribute to job creation and economic growth.
The commitment to Broad-based Prosperity was reinforced through partnerships like Lift Orlando, aiming to fortify local neighborhoods. Additionally, strategic collaborations with IBM and the introduction of futurist Rebecca Ryan are set to shape the future of the region. Ryan’s expertise will guide the development of an innovative strategic plan, maximizing the region’s strengths and potential.
