MIAMI BEACH CONNECTS LEADERS WITH OPPORTUNITY AT THE 2026 BLACK PROFESSIONALS NETWORK SUMMIT

Summary

Miami Beach proudly sponsored the 2026 Black Professionals Summit, joining business leaders and economic development professionals from across South Florida to promote entrepreneurship, strengthen regional connections, and expand access to opportunities for business growth.

Connecting entrepreneurs and businesses with the resources they need to succeed was a key focus of the 2026 Black Professionals Summit, which brought together business leaders, executives, and professionals from across South Florida for conversations on leadership, investment, and economic opportunity.

As part of the summit, Heather Shaw, Assistant Director of Economic Development for the City of Miami Beach, participated in the panel discussion, “Economic Development: Your City Has Money, Land & Resources. How Do You Access Them?”

Panel participants pose for a group photo following the economic development session at the 2026 Black Professionals Network Summit. — Pictured from left: John Lorfils, Heather Shaw, Clay Williams, Linda Julien, and Tsjenna Daley.

Moderated by Clay Williams, founder and principal of C. Williams Consulting, the panel brought together economic development professionals and public-sector leaders from across the region, including John Lorfils of the City of North Miami, Linda Julien of the City of Miami Gardens, and Tsjenna Daley of Washington, D.C.’s Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development.

The session explored how cities and economic development agencies support business growth, attract investment, strengthen commercial corridors, and create jobs. With a focus on making local government resources more accessible, the discussion offered a platform to examine how entrepreneurs, businesses, and investors can identify opportunities and better position themselves for growth.

Attendees participate in a panel discussion at the 2026 Black Professionals Network Summit. Panelists and a moderator are seated at the front of the room as audience members engage in a session focused on economic development and business resources. — Economic development professionals and community leaders discuss how businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors can access local resources, incentives, and growth opportunities during the 2026 BPN Summit.

For Miami Beach, the panel’s focus reflects the Economic Development Department’s ongoing commitment to connecting businesses with resources and support. Through the Business Concierge Service, entrepreneurs can receive assistance navigating City processes, while Business Ready Days bring together municipal, county, and community partners to provide guidance on licensing, permitting, and other business needs. Through a variety of incentive programs and business assistance initiatives, Miami Beach helps companies invest, expand, and succeed while contributing to the local economy

By sponsoring and participating in the Black Professionals Summit, Miami Beach continued to strengthen its relationships with South Florida’s business community while promoting the resources and partnerships that help drive investment, job creation, and economic growth.

Whether launching a new venture or expanding an established business, Miami Beach is committed to helping businesses access the tools, connections, and opportunities they need to Make a Bold Move.