Community Gathers to Present Best Ideas for Economic Turnaround

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. (June 30, 2010) – Economic stakeholders across Florida’s High Tech Corridor will gather at the July 6, 2010 “Best Ideas” Forum – sponsored by Space Florida, in partnership with regional economic development organizations – to share their concepts for solutions to the economic issues impacting the region as a result of the end of NASA’s Space Shuttle program. Ideas compiled at the event, which will take place Tuesday, July 6, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, will be submitted to The Federal Task Force on Space Industry Workforce and Economic Development. The event is free and open to the public.

“Collaboration among government, industry and economic development leaders across the region as we move into this transition is unprecedented,” said Space Florida President Frank DiBello. “The Best Ideas Forum is another way to ensure that all stakeholders’ ideas are considered as we support the Task Force and their mission to stabilize our economy,” he continued.

Businesses, residents and organizations with ideas to help create jobs and diversify the region’s economy have been invited to participate, and there are a limited number of 10-minute presentation slots remaining. Interested groups and individuals may continue to upload conceptsat the Space Florida website through end of day on July 1. Requests for speaking slots must be accompanied by a brief concept paper to be considered for the Forum. Those wishing to participate that have not already submitted a concept paper can go to www.spaceflorida.gov and click on the “Best Ideas Forum” link to request to present, submit a concept, or register to attend.

“The best and brightest minds in the world reside right here in Central Florida and have worked for many years on the space program. Now, we’re capturing their minds in new ways on how we can save space, our legacy industry with over 20,000 workers in the I-4 corridor alone, while also transitioning to new innovative industries that can fully utilize their talents. This issue certainly impacts all of us,” stated Ray Gilley, president and CEO of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission.

“Diversification of our economy is key,” said Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO of the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast. “This transitional time presents us with a solid opportunity for innovation, which can drive our future economy. The Best Ideas Forum provides an excellent opportunity to spawn innovative ideas.”

All concepts submitted, whether the author presents them at the Forum or simply provides a written version through Space Florida’s website, will be provided to the Task Force for their consideration.

“Holding a forum of this nature is an excellent approach to achieving the President’s objectives for building and ensuring a bright economic future for our region and state,” noted Lisa Rice, president of Brevard Workforce. “Some of the best business minds available live and work right here in Central Florida and they are the most knowledgeable on what it will take to move us forward using this talented aerospace workforce. Their ideas and suggestions on initiatives to implement those ideas will make all the difference for the future growth of Brevard, and the State of Florida.”

Additional requests to present at the forum will be determined according to availability and will be vetted to avoid duplications. Those wishing to present ideas must submit an online request, including a brief concept paper, in order to be considered. Guidelines and more information is available at www.spaceflorida.gov.

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Space Florida was created to strengthen Florida’s position as the global leader in aerospace research, investment, exploration and commerce. As Florida’s aerospace development organization, we are committed to attracting and expanding the next generation of space industry businesses. With its highly trained workforce, proven infrastructure and unparalleled record of achievement, Florida is the ideal location for aerospace businesses to thrive – and Space Florida is the perfect partner to help them succeed. www.spaceflorida.gov