Join over 350 thought leaders\, influencers\, and business professionals at the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation'\;s 2026 Annual Update Luncheon! This is our signature event you will not want to miss!
\n\nServing as our annual report to stakeholders\, investors\, elected officials\, and the region\, Shirar O'\;Connor\, President &\; CEO\, will present a briefing on the organization'\;s ROI and work to attract and retain high-wage jobs for area residents and foster a positive economic environment for Manatee County.
\n\nWe will also have a distinguished C-suite panel to discuss AI - under the hood. Associate Professor\, the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence\, Cybersecurity and Computing\, University of South Florida&rsquo\;s Dr. John Licato will moderate the panel discussion\, which will include David Ponraj\, Founder and CEO of Economic Impact Catalyst\, Dr. Davis Schneiderman\, President of Ringling College of Art &\; Design\, and Chris Williams\, Founder of Aginto Digital Media Company.
\n\nAdditionally\, the EDC will present the 2026 Rick Fawley Economic Development Award of Distinction to Jacki Dezelski\, IOM\, President and CEO of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes an individual&rsquo\;s outstanding contributions to our business community\, improving the quality of life for our region\, and moving the local economy forward.
\n\nWe will also be introducing our new 2027 Chairman of the Board AND presenting our new Impact Award!
\n\nNetworking begins at 11:30am.
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\n\nCurrent EDC Investor single ticket: $120
\n\nCurrent EDC Investor table: $1\,500
\n\nNon-investor single ticket: $135
\n\nNon-investor table: $1\,800
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\n\nSecure your tickets today for this opportunity!
\n\nSponsorships are available. Please reach out with any questions at 941-803-9034.
\n LOCATION:The Grand Ballroom Bradenton Area Convention Center 1 Haben Boulevard Palmetto\, FL 34221 UID:e.2475.58229 SEQUENCE:3 DTSTAMP:20261008T024213Z URL:https://business.manateechamber.com/events/details/bradenton-area-edc-2026-annual-update-luncheon-58229 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR