Fort Myers is set to host the Edison Awards, including its signature awards gala and innovation showcase April 15-16 at the Luminary Hotel and Caloosa Sound Convention Center.
City Council on March 16 approved $100,000 in funding for awards operator Edison Universal Solutions, Inc., an annual amount since the global innovation showcase came to the city in 2021.
It is the Edison Award’s 39th season and its sixth year in Fort Myers. Their partnership includes organizing additional events during an awards season lasting through June 30, such as the Lightbulb Series of panel discussions in partnership with the nonprofit Collaboratory.
The awards help foster regional economic development and leverage the legacy of Thomas Alva Edison through a national marketing campaign with the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau.
City staff estimate the awards have a $2.7 million economic impact in Fort Myers through hotel stays and sales tax collections.Â