DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEWS
Greater Orlando Sports Commission Welcomes New CFO Jeanine Scharpf
The Greater Orlando Sports Commission announced the retirement of longtime CFO Gary Cohen after 11 years of service and welcomed Jeanine Scharpf as the new Chief Financial Officer. Scharpf brings over 30 years of financial management experience and is poised to support the organization’s continued growth as a leading sports tourism destination. Cohen’s leadership helped stabilize and grow the commission, and he will remain involved as an advisor and community supporter. Learn more about the leadership transition here.
Orlando Main Streets Unite for 2025 Sip and Savor Weeks
For the first time, all 12 of Orlando’s Main Street districts are teaming up to host Sip & Savor Weeks 2025, a citywide celebration of local food and drink running from July 25 to August 10. Over 65 businesses will offer special menus, curated bundles, and pricing to highlight the diverse culinary talent across Orlando’s neighborhoods. The event invites residents and visitors to explore the city one bite—or sip—at a time. Check out the full list of participating restaurants here!
Florida’s Commercial Lease Sales Tax Repeal
Florida will repeal the sales tax on commercial real estate leases starting October 1, 2025, ending both the state sales tax and local discretionary surtax on commercial property rentals, according to a recent update from Lowndes. However, the repeal does not apply to short-term residential leases, parking facilities, or equipment rentals, and tax will still be due on occupancy before October 1. Landlords and tenants should update their leases and maintain records for audits covering periods prior to the repeal. Learn more about the repeal here.
Investment Banking Report on Middle Market M&A
How is Middle Market M&A shaping up in 2025? Withum’s Investment Banking Q1 Report reveals a slowdown due to economic uncertainty and increased competition driving up valuations for strong assets. As conditions stabilize, the market is showing signs of cautious optimism. Read the full report to learn more.
DTO EVENTS
Orlando’s 150th Birthday Celebration: Free Admission to Local Attractions
Orlando is celebrating its 150th birthday on July 31, 2025, with free admission to the Orange County Regional History Center, featuring the special Orlando Collected exhibition showcasing 150 objects and images from the city’s rich history. The celebration also includes free entry to the Mennello Museum of American Art and Harry P. Leu Gardens on the same day. Learn more about Orlando's 150th Celebration here.
Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Returns for 2025
Get ready to savor the best bites Orlando has to offer during Magical Dining 2025! Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining returns from August 15 to September 30, featuring over 160 restaurants offering three-course prix-fixe dinners priced at $40 or $60. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the event includes 15 Michelin-Guide-recognized restaurants and new local additions, with proceeds from every meal benefiting the Reed Charitable Foundation. DOP is proud to recognize members Reyes Mezcaleria, Acropolis Greek Taverna, The Monroe, Boheme Restaurant, The Drake Kitchen + Bar, Leiah, and The Citrus Club for their participation in this year’s Magical Dining event. View the full list of participating restaurants here.
Fall 2025 Downtown Campus Locators
UCF Downtown and Valencia College Downtown are bringing back their Downtown Campus Locators program for Fall 2025 to help new and returning students navigate campus during their first two days. This year, locator stations will be inside academic building lobbies, with added evening support at Parramore Garage. Volunteers are needed on August 18–19 to assist students and create a welcoming environment—sign up to help make a difference!
Rise & Thrive: Celebrating Workforce Success
Join CareerSource Central Florida on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, for a morning event celebrating workforce success and community impact at the Winter Park Events Center. Hear inspiring stories of transformation and support efforts to expand access to skills training and job opportunities. Your participation helps strengthen both careers and communities. RSVP today!
|
|
