04/02/2026
💡 What an insightful experience attending the 2026 USF International Business Forum: Global Driven Growth in the Tampa Bay Region! A heartfelt thank you to the University of South Florida, the dedicated event staff, and all the participants who made this forum such a resounding success.
Here is a look back at some of the day's key highlights:
✈️ Opening & Strategic Insights
The event kicked off with inspiring Welcome Remarks from Moez Limayem, President of the University of South Florida. This set a collaborative tone for the day and led right into an engaging Fireside Chat featuring Raul Alfonso (Port Tampa Bay), Michael Simas (The Florida Council of 100), and Matt Swanson, DBA (SelectFlorida).
🧭 Special Welcome & Global Growth
Following the opening insights, the room received a Special Welcome from the City of Tampa featuring Mayor Jane Castor. The agenda then dove deep into a robust Panel Discussion on "Foreign Direct Investment: Global Companies, Local Growth," exploring exactly how international partnerships are actively fueling our local economy. Madison Lawson, Jonathan Abreu, Dr. Joao Roberto Amador, Tobias Borawski, Nick Coucoules, Martin Palmeri
🛳️ Port Tampa Bay: The Economic Engine
The data shared during the presentations was absolutely staggering. Highlighting its status as Florida’s largest and most diversified port, Port Tampa Bay showcased:
✔️ $34.6 Billion in annual economic impact.
✔️ 192,201 maritime-related jobs.
✔️ A clear roadmap for the state's growth, including future initiatives like the Deep Dredge Navigational Project and a New Cruise Terminal.
🤝 Networking & Representation
Jason Conner and I proudly represented Saunders Real Estate Commercial Real Estate, taking the opportunity to network, exchange business cards, and connect with global and local leaders to create more business opportunities right here in Tampa Bay.
👩💻 Let’s Engage: Finding the Right Path to Growth
If you are a medium-sized company, how do you identify the right partners to scale and work with you? Success often starts with aligning with the right location based on your specific business needs, ensuring robust transportation links, finding the right talent, and having access to technology as a core economic driver.
📈 I am particularly curious: What sources do you lean on to find these connections beyond county economic development centers, local government sites, and employer platforms? Furthermore, what does your process look like to successfully enter and become part of a pool of trusted partners? Let's discuss in the comments!
