Department of Economic Innovation and Development Hosts Successful Miami Hubzone Summit

Miami, FL – February 3, 2025 – The Department of Economic Innovation and Development successfully hosted the Miami Hubzone Summit on January 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at 1642 NE 1st Avenue, Miami, Florida. The event brought together local leaders, entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders to discuss the future of business development in Miami’s Hubzone areas.

The summit was specifically designed to equip Miami’s small businesses with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to access federal contracting opportunities through the SBA HubZone program and Opportunity Zone incentives. By providing key insights into these programs, the event helped attendees learn how to leverage these opportunities to expand their businesses and contribute to the economic development of their communities.

The summit featured a distinguished panel of speakers, including:

• Keith Carswell, Director of the City of Miami Department of Economic Innovation and Development
• Isiaa Jones, Executive Director of OMNI CRA
• Brian Van Hook, Regional Director at SBDC at FIU
• Manuel Cid, Senior Advisor for Economic Opportunity at Miami-Dade County
• Althea Harris, Deputy Director at SBDC

“The Miami Hubzone Summit is an essential initiative for fostering economic growth and job creation in Miami’s underdeveloped areas,” said Keith Carswell, Director of the City of Miami Department of Economic Innovation and Development. “We are excited to continue to partner with local businesses and organizations to drive innovation and create sustainable opportunities for our residents.”

The event served as a platform to connect small business owners and entrepreneurs with resources, funding opportunities, and experts in the economic development field. It also provided attendees with the chance to network and discuss ways to enhance growth within Miami’s Hubzone areas.

The Department of Economic Innovation and Development remains committed to ensuring that all Miami residents and businesses can thrive by providing access to resources and fostering an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can flourish.

For more information about future events or the Department’s initiatives, please visit eidmiami.org.