WLRN Sunshine Economy Summit 2026, Presented by The Ft. Lauderdale Alliance

Join us for the Sunshine Economy Summit 2026, a one-day event presented by WLRN and hosted by Tom Hudson, Interim CEO of WLRN.
About this Event

WLRN's Sunshine Economy Summit is a one-day event presented by the Ft. Lauderdale Alliance and hosted by Tom Hudson, Interim CEO of WLRN and former Senior Economics Editor and Special Correspondent for WLRN.

The Summit brings together key stakeholders, business leaders, policymakers, and community experts to discuss the region’s economic growth, challenges, and opportunities. This engaging summit features insightful panels, keynote speakers, and interactive sessions focused on innovative strategies to foster economic development, support local businesses, and create jobs in South Florida. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of our vibrant South Florida community.

We are proud to acknowledge our sponsors:

Agenda
*Schedule subject to change
🕑: 08:00 AM - 08:45 AM
Coffee and registration
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:15 AM
Opening remarks
🕑: 10:15 AM - 10:30 AM
Coffee break
🕑: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Housing Affordability Panel
Host: Dev Motwani, Merrimac Ventures
🕑: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Aviation, Maintenance and Repair Talk
Host: Victor Mendelson, HEICO Co-President
🕑: 12:00 PM
Lunch begins
🕑: 12:20 PM - 01:45 PM
Mayoral Panel
Host: Dean Trantalis, Fort Lauderdale Mayor
🕑: 01:45 PM - 02:15 PM
Sports Talk
Host: Michael White, President of Business Ops., Panthers