CFDC Leadership Mission 2026 Spotlights Innovation and Economic Momentum in St. Pete and Pinellas County 

This year’s two-day Leadership Mission to St. Petersburg and Pinellas County marked our largest mission to date. Designed to strengthen regional partnerships and highlight economic development opportunities, the experience gave attendees an inside look at the innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaborative leadership driving growth within the St. Pete area. 

From executive presentations and behind-the-scenes company tours to networking opportunities and candid conversations with regional leaders, the 2026 Leadership Mission demonstrated the power of connection and shared vision in shaping the future of Polk’s economy. 

Building Regional Connections in Downtown St. Pete 

The mission began in the heart of Downtown St. Pete at the offices of Cyndeo Wealth Partners where attendees gathered for a reception focused on relationship-building and regional insight. Guests heard from Becca Brown, CEO of spARK Labs who shared perspectives on the region’s growing innovation ecosystem and the importance of collaboration between business leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors. 

Economic Development and Innovation Take Center Stage 

Friday’s programming began at Duke Energy’s downtown St. Petersburg offices. There, attendees gathered for breakfast and networking to kick off the day. Suzanne Christman, CEcD, MEDP, Director of Business Development for Pinellas County Economic Development, and Mike Swesey, President & CEO of the St. Pete Economic Development Corp., provided attendees with a comprehensive look at the region’s economic development strategy. 

Their presentations highlighted the continued growth of St. Pete and Pinellas County as hubs for technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation-driven industries. Leaders discussed the importance of strategic investment, talent attraction, and fostering an environment where businesses can scale and thrive. 

Inside St. Pete’s Growing Innovation Economy 

Attendees then experienced innovation firsthand through exclusive tours of two companies helping shape the future of American industry and workplace culture. 

Haddy: Reinventing American Manufacturing 

The first stop was Haddy, an advanced manufacturing company using AI-powered 3D printing technology to transform product development and production. By combining sustainable materials with rapid manufacturing capabilities, Haddy enables companies to move from concept to finished product in a matter of days rather than months. 

The visit offered attendees a firsthand look at how emerging technologies are reshaping manufacturing, improving efficiency, and creating new opportunities for scalable production in the United States. 

Power Design: A Workplace Built for Innovation 

The second tour brought the group to Power Design, a nationally recognized design-build multi-trade contractor with projects across the country. Attendees explored the company’s headquarters and learned how intentional workplace design contributes to company culture, employee engagement, and innovation. 

From large-scale collaborative spaces and curated artwork to a multi-floor fitness center, the headquarters reflects Power Design’s commitment to creating an environment where employees can thrive professionally and creatively. 

Closing Conversation with Leaders Who Helped Shape St. Pete 

The Leadership Mission concluded with a fireside chat featuring three influential figures in St. Petersburg’s economic and cultural transformation: 

• Rick Baker, former Mayor of St. Pete and recipient of Newsweek’s “America’s Greatest Mayor of the Decade” recognition.  
• Steve Westphal, veteran restaurateur instrumental in transforming Beach Drive into a premier dining destination. 
• Rob Kapusta, attorney and advocate known for his leadership in the Warehouse Arts District which serves as the cornerstone of St. Pete’s creative economy.  

The panel explored the vision, risk-taking, and leadership decisions that helped position St. Petersburg as one of Florida’s most dynamic and fastest-growing cities. Their conversation underscored the importance of long-term planning, public-private partnerships, and investing in both economic opportunity and community identity. 

Strengthening Leadership Through Regional Collaboration 

The 2026 CFDC Leadership Mission reinforced the value of regional collaboration and forward-thinking leadership. Through conversations, immersive experiences, and engagement with innovative companies and civic leaders, attendees gained valuable insight into the trends and partnerships shaping Florida’s economic future. 

“The CFDC leadership mission provides valuable insight into how communities across Florida are approaching growth, talent attraction, and quality of place,” said Emery Smith, CFDC Chair and Executive Vice President for Ben Hill Griffin. “By engaging with local business and community leaders, we can bring back ideas and strategies that support growth within Polk County.”

Experiences like the Leadership Mission continue to strengthen relationships between Polk County and neighboring regions while inspiring new ideas that support economic growth, workforce development, and long-term community impact.