EDC to Host International Innovation and Entrepreneurship Tour

Brevard County, Fla (April 28, 2017) – The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) will host a delegation of over 50 representatives from around the world during the 8th Americas Competitiveness Exchange on Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ACE) on December 7-8, 2017.

“Worldwide leaders in economic development, innovation and entrepreneurship will meet with Brevard County companies as we showcase our region’s economic drivers,” stated Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO, Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast. “This program opens doors to new markets and facilitates long-term partnerships for Brevard’s business community.”

The ACE program – hosted by the U.S. Departments of State and Commerce, in coordination with the Government of Mexico, as Chair Pro Tempore of the Inter-American Competitiveness Network, or RIAC, 2016-2018; and the Organization of American States (OAS) – brings together decision-makers from the Western Hemisphere and other nations to explore global and regional partnerships and economic development opportunities that will strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship.

As a member of the North-Central Florida region, the Space Coast will join the cities of Tallahassee/Leon County, Gainesville/Alachua, Orlando/Orange County and St. Augustine/St. Johns County for a week-long tour of Florida’s innovative and technology-driven economy.

“We appreciate your leadership and commitment to welcome 50 high-level decision-makers from the Americas and around the world by opening the doors of your communities to share your experience and competitiveness strengths. We strongly believe that when the right partners come together and increase their level of interaction great things happen for job creation, increased investment, and improved prosperity.” said U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce Dennis Alvord.

Cissy Proctor, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, said, “Over the past six years, North-Central Florida has become a hub for economic and scientific innovation thanks to investments by Governor Rick Scott. We are excited to facilitate deeper connections between ACE program participants and Florida’s tech-based industries, and showcase why North-Central Florida is the ideal place to do business.”

Since 2014, ACE has been held in the United States, Argentina, Mexico, and Canada, becoming a catalyst to strengthen hemispheric ties, building on ideas and models that work to promote economic and social development.

###

About the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast
The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) is dedicated to attracting new business and investment and expanding existing industry throughout the Space Coast, influencing change on government laws and regulations affecting economic development, promoting the Space Coast to encourage new investment, supporting efforts of Space Coast military installations, and relaying new programs and procedures to assist manufacturing and high tech companies. The EDC is a private, not-for-profit coalition whose stakeholders are business leaders committed to the economic growth and stability of Florida’s Space Coast. Visit www.SpaceCoastEDC.org.