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Register now for the

Florida Rural Economic Development Summit 2025

Rural Florida: The Future is NOW!

November 19-21, 2025 | World Equestrian Center® | Ocala, FL

We’re thrilled to invite you to the upcoming 2025 FREDA Rural Summit, where this year’s theme – Rural Florida: The Future is NOW! – sets the tone for forward-focused conversations, cutting-edge strategies, and meaningful collaboration. Rural Florida is poised for dynamic growth, and this year's Summit is designed to equip you with the tools and inspiration to drive that progress. You do not want to miss what has become Rural Florida's Signature event!


Join an anticipated 350-400 fellow rural economic development professionals, state and local elected officials and senior staff, workforce/talent development professionals, and multiple public and private sector partners as we dive into a powerful lineup of speakers, engaging sessions, and unmatched networking opportunities. Our agenda is shaping up to be our most impactful yet – and we can’t wait to share what’s ahead.


Be sure to register early to secure your spot and your hotel accommodations at the World Equestrian Center® – rooms will book fast!


Stay tuned for more details, and get ready to be part of the momentum shaping Florida’s rural future.


Once you complete your registration for the Summit, you will receive an email confirmation immediately. Summit confirmations include your registration information, totals, and a link to secure your hotel. 


You must register for the Summit before you can book your hotel room.





Registration

$525



Accommodations

Room block cut-off October 31

Check-in 4:00pm | Check-out 12:00pm


Summit registration must be made prior to hotel reservation.

Hotel room rate:

$225 per night


Sponsorship opportunities are now available!

Confirmed Speakers to Date!

J. Alex Kelly

Florida Secretary of Commerce


Bio

Darrick McGhee

President & CEO

Strategic Inflection Point


Bio

Cathy Chambers

Senior Director, Economic Development

Florida Power & Light Company 


Bio

Shellie Phelps

Creative Consultant

Biggest Fish Consulting


Bio

Ron Hetrick

Principal Economist

Lightcast


Bio

Gray Swoope

President & CEO

VisionFirst Advisors


Bio

Christopher Lloyd

Director, Infrastructure & Economic Development

McGuireWoods Consulting


Bio

J. Scott Angle, Ph.D.

Senior Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources

University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS)


Bio

Additional Speakers Confirmed

Thank You To Our Generous Sponsors To Date!

freda@iog.fsu.edu | (850) 645-6700

3200 Commonwealth Blvd., Suite 7

Tallahassee, FL 32303