More than 300 practitioners from K–12, colleges, nonprofits, workforce organizations, and philanthropy are gathering at the Talent Strong Florida Summit on May 6-8 in Tampa with a shared purpose: to close Florida’s attainment gap.
The convening is designed to align strategy, share proven models, and push toward scalable solutions all while connecting those doing the work to support Florida’s students.
So, what can you expect from this year’s event?
Wednesday, May 6: Setting the Stage
The day begins with invitation-only pre-summit sessions for philanthropic partners, High-Value Pathways Initiative grantees, and LCAN leaders, setting the strategic foundation before the full convening opens at noon.
The Welcome Luncheon brings attendees together to kick off conversations on building stronger, workforce-aligned pathways to postsecondary success. Hear from local, state, and national leaders investing in Florida’s education system and economic future.
Afternoon breakouts explore work-based learning, peer leadership models, community partnership schools, successful regional approaches, pathways for students with disabilities, adult learner access, and more.
That evening, the Welcome Reception leads into the Welcome Celebration Dinner, new this year and presented by Florida Trend. The dinner will spotlight Osceola Prosper, a community-driven program that took Osceola County from 61st to 3rd in Florida for college-going rates. Featuring special guests from Valencia College, Osceola Prosper, Florida Trend, and live music from Big Poppa Band & the Divas.
Student performers from three Pinellas County high schools will also bring live music across all three days of the summit, from the Welcome Reception to the Awards Breakfast.
Thursday, May 7: From Ideas to Implementation
Day two opens with a Networking Breakfast and live music from cellist Tom Kersey. Morning and afternoon breakouts cover talent pipelines, K–12 and industry alignment, durable skills in an AI economy, FAFSA completion strategies, data dashboards, career pathways, and more.
The Keynote Luncheon examines Florida’s rise to the #1 higher education system in the country, and where we go next.
The day closes with an Evening Reception poolside with live music from the Cienna Alida and Floyd Lewis Duo.
Friday, May 8: Celebrating Progress & Action
The summit closes with the Awards & Inspiration Breakfast honoring 23 awardees including FAFSA Champions, College Ready Florida Innovators, Workforce Education Innovators, and legislative leaders driving change across Florida. Featuring an inspirational message from Steve Colón Garcia of Bottom Line, with Dr. Stacy Baier of Helios Education Foundation and FCAN’s Dave Sobush.
Register now and be part of the effort to turn ideas into impact for Florida’s students.
Thank you to our 2026 Presenting, Platinum, and Gold Sponsors.
