September 2026

CFDC Annual Meeting

The CFDC’s 2026 Annual Meeting brought together business and community leaders to reflect on Polk County’s economic momentum and recognize this year’s Success in Business awardees. Held in the Skylight Hangar at the SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus, the event was an opportunity to highlight the businesses and leaders helping shape Polk County’s continued economic development.

Thank you to everyone who attended. Check out the full event recap below for highlights from the evening.

Event Photos

Event Recap

Congrats to the 2026 Award Recipient,

Aerospace Center for Excellence!

Congrats to the 2026 Award Recipient,

GMF Steel Group!

The CFDC is pleased to welcome Brandon Clark of The Ruthvens as its 26|27 Board Chair. With a forward-thinking approach and a strong commitment to building partnerships, Brandon brings a vision focused on creating connections, embracing new opportunities, and strengthening Polk County’s economic future.

Thank you to our 25|26 Board Chair, Emery Smith of Ben Hill Griffin, Inc., for his steadfast leadership. Throughout his tenure, Emery’s commitment to collaboration, economic development, and service helped strengthen the CFDC’s impact across Polk County. While his term as Chair has concluded, his legacy of service will continue to shape the organization and the community we serve.

CFDC Board Chair Emery Smith presented the 2026 Chair's Award to County Manager Bill Beasley in recognition of his years of dedicated service and leadership in fostering economic opportunity throughout Polk County. Known for his thoughtful communication and empowering leadership, Beasley has helped guide the county through significant growth while keeping residents’ needs at the center of decisions that shape the community’s future.

More About Mr. Beasley

A special thank-you to our keynote speaker, Mark D. Wiese, Director of the Moon Base Transportation Office at NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center. Wiese shared highlights about the space industry and emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships and collaboration in building a strong, connected economic ecosystem. His insights underscored the value of working together to create opportunities for continued growth in Polk County and beyond.

Honoring Outgoing Board Members

The CFDC is grateful to Rick Garcia and Dave Shepp for their years of service on the Board of Directors and their dedication to Polk County. Watch the videos below to hear colleagues share their reflections on Rick and Dave’s contributions and the meaningful role they have played in our community.