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

1) Investing in Orlando’s innovation ecosystem –The City of Orlando and the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) announced eight recipients of the 2026 Orlando Tech Grant, representing a $65,000 investment in organizations connecting entrepreneurs, talent, and industry. By supporting the people and organizations building our technology community, we are strengthening the foundation Orlando needs to compete as a leading innovation hub. Read more about the 2026 Orlando Tech Grant recipients.

2) Voters taking a closer look at Amendment 3 – Opposition to Amendment 3 continues to grow as voters learn more about the potential negative impacts on public safety and other essential services provided by local government. A new poll conducted for Associated Industries of Florida found that support for Amendment 3 falls short of the 60% it needs to pass. After hearing the full ballot language, 53% of respondents said they supported the constitutional amendment. Support was strongest in the Miami and Tampa areas, at 56% each, still short of passage. The weakest support is in the Orlando region, with just 48% in support, a finding that demonstrates the value of OEP’s recent Policy in Progress Series forum on property tax reform. Read more about the Amendment 3 polling.

3) J.P. Morgan economist Dan Silver to headline Regional Economic Summit – The OEP’s 2026 Regional Economic Summit hosted on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Full Sail Live in Winter Park, will feature Dan Silver, J.P. Morgan Commercial Banking Head of Industry & Regional Insights, as the keynote speaker. Join business and community leaders for a morning of insights on the economic trends, opportunities and priorities shaping Central Florida’s next chapter of growth and Orlando’s competitive position. Register and learn more.

4) The City Playbook: Inside Siemens Energy’s Big Move to Orlando – On the latest episode of The City Playbook, I sit down with Fadi Ghantous, U.S. leader at Siemens Energy, to talk about the company’s decision to move its U.S. headquarters and Americas hub to Lake Nona and why Orlando is central to its future. We also explore the rising energy demands of AI and data centers, the importance of talent, and what it will take to power the next generation of growth. Watch the episode, and please like, share, and subscribe to help us grow The City Playbook audience.

5) Building Florida’s semiconductor workforce –The NSF Florida Semiconductor Engine and Florida Semiconductor Institute are seeking proposals to expand semiconductor education, training, and career pathways across the Engine’s 23-county service area. With proposals due October 16, this is an opportunity to connect education more directly with industry needs and build the talent pipeline required to support Florida’s growing semiconductor ecosystem. Learn more and submit a proposal.

6) Celebrating Orlando’s most powerful leaders –Congratulations to the business and community leaders recognized by Orlando Magazine among the “Most Powerful People” in the City Beautiful 2026. Of the 50 leaders named, 36 are actively engaged with the OEP, a reflection of the leadership our investors bring to shaping Central Florida’s economy and future. A special congratulations to Michael Brown, president and CEO of Travel + Leisure Co. and a member of OEP’s Governors Council, who was named the inaugural recipient of the Harris Rosen Heart of Central Florida Award for his leadership, service, and commitment to our community.

Programs & Events

Leadership Orlando Alumni Association – Stay connected, continue leading, and help shape what’s next for our region // LEARN MORE & JOIN

2026 Regional Economic Summit // November 17 // REGISTER TODAY
Interested in being a sponsor? Contact Katie.Thomason@orlando.org

ICYMI

Florida Homestead Tax Vote Could Affect 60% of Homeowners – Realtor.com

Amendment 3 support insufficient among informed voters, AIF-commissioned poll finds – Florida Politics

Full Sail University named to Billboard Magazine’s 2026 Top Music Business Schools list – Full Sail University

Florida Poly ranks No. 4 nationally for career outcomes – Florida Polytechnic University

SunRail’s free Train-To-The-Game service for Magic fans returns Oct. 13 – Orlando Shine

Orlando submits bid to host major global soccer tournament – Orlando Business Journal