2026 Annual Update Luncheon

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! Serving 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. We 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’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. Additionally, 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’s outstanding contributions to our business community, improving the quality of life for our region, and moving the local economy forward. We will also be introducing our new 2027 Chairman of the Board AND presenting our new Impact Award! Networking begins at 11:30am. Current EDC Investor single ticket: $120 Current EDC Investor table: $1,500 Non-investor single ticket: $135 Non-investor table: $1,800 Secure your tickets today for this opportunity! Sponsorships are available. Please reach out with any questions at 941-803-9034.