Scott Matthews
Chairman of the Board
About Us
We connect business owners to opportunities, policymakers to solutions, and ambition to action.
Why Orlando. Why Now.
#1 Job Growth
37,500 new jobs in 2024—highest rate among the 30 most populous metros. Unemployment: just 3%.
#1 Population Growth
76,000 new residents in 2024. That's 1,500 new potential customers every week.
#6 Fastest-Growing Economy
Regional GDP: $217B, growing 4.5% annually—outpacing the U.S. by 55%.
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
To cultivate business success and community prosperity through strategic advocacy, leadership engagement, and impactful programming.
Vision
To position Central Florida as a premier global destination for commerce and tourism, fostering an environment where business owners thrive, strategic connections flourish, and innovation defines the region.
Who We Are Today
We represent 1,000+ businesses—from solo entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 operations. What unites them? The belief that Orlando's best days are ahead, and that collective action creates opportunity.
Our region is evolving rapidly:
- 1,500 new residents arriving weekly
- Major corporate expansions (BNY Mellon, Charles Schwab, tech firms)
- Epic Universe opening May 2025
- NeoCity semiconductor hub development
- UCF: nation's second-largest university
We're evolving with it—championing inclusive growth, embracing innovation, and ensuring Orlando remains the best place to build a business. 80% of our workforce is employed outside tourism. We're already more diversified than most realize.
Where We Focus
Advocacy & Public Policy
Your voice, amplified. We represent business interests at city council, state legislature, and regulatory bodies. Recent wins: defeated harmful licensing fees, secured $2.1B transportation funding, and championed workforce legislation.
Talent Development
Bridging the skills gap through partnerships with UCF, Valencia College, and CareerSource Central Florida. Our goal: build the skilled workforce our $217B economy demands.
Economic Diversification
Supporting aerospace, semiconductors, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing through capital attraction and strategic partnerships. Fortune 500 headquarters and major regional operations call Orlando home.
Meet the Team
Dedicated professionals working every day to serve our members, advance our mission, and deliver a strong return on your investment in the Orlando Chamber of Commerce.
Jon Epstein
Executive Vice President
Danny Williams
Executive Vice President
Raphael
Director
Lawrence Bellido
Director of Real Estate Development
Michael Bradley
Director of In-Market Tours and Events
Ray Carter
Director of Market Advertising
Kirk Culver
Director of Chamber Development
Michael Finn
Director of Philanthropy
Jan Gautam
Director of Chamber Development
Donnie Keene
Advisory Board Director
Genevieve Lopez
Director
Lorena Morales
Director of Sports Relations
Suketu Patel
Director of International Relations
Avery Potter
Director of Downtown Events
Mark Reid
Director of Digital Marketing
Vincent Risalvato
Director
Luis Sulgado
Advisory Board Director of Event Marketing
Charlie Swan
Director of TimeShare Development
Keith Theodorson
Director of Chamber Development
Armando Vasquez
Director of Concierge Services
Sheila Burrell
Advisor of Chamber Relationships
Jermaine K.
Advisory Board
Roger Warren
Advisor of In-Market Programs
Ready to grow with Orlando?
Submit your membership application today and we'll help you activate your online directory listing, plug into key events, and tap into the full value of your Orlando Chamber membership.
Complete My Membership Application