The Florida Chamber Foundation recently hosted the Florida Technology & Innovation Solution Summit, which brought together leaders from across the state to discuss strategies for advancing Florida’s economy through technology and innovation. The event featured speakers such as Cathie Wood of ARK Invest and Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly.
Other notable participants included John Snyder, Chair of the House Information Technology Budget & Policy Subcommittee; Linda Olson, CEO of Tampa Bay Wave; Paul Sohl, CEO of Florida High Tech Corridor; Adrienne Johnston, President & CEO of CareerSource Florida; TJ Villamil, President of Business Development for eMerge Americas; Robert Harvey, President & Executive Director of Florida Opportunity Fund; Nat Ford, CEO of Jacksonville Transportation Authority; Rhea Law, President of the University of South Florida; James Henningsen, President of the College of Central Florida; and Jennifer Crabtree, VP at Tampa General Hospital.
“Florida’s future economy is being built by visionaries who are solving real-world challenges with scalable, market-ready solutions,” said Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Foundation. “The Florida Technology & Innovation Solutions Summit brought together the best mix of future-focused leaders, innovators, and investors to ensure Florida remains on the right path toward becoming the 10th largest economy in the world by 2030 and the most competitive state in the nation.”
Secretary J. Alex Kelly spoke about state initiatives that are attracting high-growth industries to Florida. Cathie Wood highlighted how emerging technologies can help position the state as a global leader in investment and innovation. Representative John Snyder discussed investments in technology infrastructure and workforce development that could benefit small businesses and entrepreneurs statewide.
Dr. Scott Angle addressed advancements in agricultural technology that are strengthening food security and sustainability while opening new markets for farmers. Nat Ford explained how transit technology is improving mobility and economic development in line with the Autonomous Florida Initiative. Aundra Wallace emphasized regional partnerships’ role in developing talent pipelines. Jennifer Crabtree described healthcare innovations at Tampa General Hospital aimed at improving patient outcomes across the state.
Panel discussions covered topics such as public-private investment—featuring organizations like eMerge Americas, Florida Venture Forum, and Embarc Collective—the impact of innovation districts like University of South Florida Research Park and Lake Nona Medical City, as well as strategic partnerships supporting early-stage business growth. Attendees networked with industry leaders and explored ways to strengthen a diverse economy.
A highlight was the Florida Innovation Pitch Competition where Matt Donovan, CEO and Co-Founder of Agriculture Intelligence (AgIntel), won for presenting an AI-powered platform that helps farmers optimize yields while reducing waste. As a result, AgIntel will present at next year’s Florida Venture Capital Conference—one of the largest gatherings for venture capitalists—and join eMerge Americas’ Global Startup Accelerator program.
Dr. Keith Richard, Vice President of Research at the Foundation stated: “From agriculture to biotech to cybersecurity, the companies we saw on stage are proof that Florida is cultivating an ecosystem where innovation can thrive.”
A follow-up virtual webinar open to all will take place on September 15th at 11 am to continue discussions on advancing tech leadership in Florida.
The Foundation describes itself as a statewide organization focused on long-term strategies for economic prosperity through research-led initiatives such as improving talent pipelines and fostering business-friendly environments guided by its Six Pillars framework. It relies on support from its Community Development Partnership Council made up of thought leaders who contribute expertise and resources toward measurable impacts statewide.
For more information about joining or supporting these efforts visit flchamber.com/cdp or contact Dr. Keith Richard at krichard@flchamber.com or 850-521-1231.
