DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEWS
Downtown Historic District Gets New Tax Rebate Incentive
The City of Orlando’s Community Redevelopment Agency voted 6-1 to approve a 10-year tax rebate program supporting the redevelopment of historic buildings downtown. Developers investing at least $5 million while preserving key façade features can qualify for a rebate of 50% to 75% on the increased property taxes generated by their improvements. The incentive arrives alongside a three-year pause on Historic Preservation Board reviews, both intended to encourage new business downtown. Read more here.
Construction Begins on New Coalition for the Homeless Shelter
Site work has begun on a new $60 million shelter for women and families at the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida campus in Parramore, with DeAngelis Diamond serving as general contractor. The project moved into construction after a substantial donation from Morgan & Morgan closed a $10 million funding gap, and the six-story, 106,000-square-foot facility will add a clinic, dining facility, and expanded children's and youth services. Completion is expected in spring 2028. Learn more here.
Visit Orlando Opens Board Nominations for 2027
Visit Orlando is accepting nominations for its 2027 Board of Directors, seeking members who will guide the organization's strategic goals and support its mission as a welcoming, inclusive travel destination. Board members take on duties of care, loyalty, and obedience in helping steer the local tourism industry forward. Applications are due by 5 PM on Friday, September 18. Submit your application here.
Save 10% on Orlando Valkyries Season Tickets
Orlando's Valkyries fans can lock in their seats for the 2027 season, ahead of the January kickoff, with 10% off all season tickets and partial plans through August 14. From courtside to the 200 level, and season tickets to flex-plans, there's an option for every kind of fan. Flexible plans and an interest-free payment option make it easy to be part of the excitement all season long. Lock in your seats here.
DTO EVENTS
"Feather & Flame" Opens in the Atrium Art Gallery
Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs is hosting an opening reception for "Feather & Flame: Portraits of Wonder," a collection by artist Angela Scott, on Friday, August 14. Scott's acrylic and mixed media pieces feature expressive portraits of birds and wildlife, and the exhibition will remain on display through September 3. Admission is free, but registration is requested. RSVP here.
CareerSource Seeks Employers for Regional Labor Roundtables
The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta is partnering with CareerSource Central Florida and the Orlando Economic Partnership on Orlando 360, a labor market research initiative gathering employer input on hiring trends and workforce challenges. Roundtable sessions take place at the Orlando Economic Partnership on Tuesday, August 18 and Wednesday, August 19, both from 8:30 to 11 AM. Business leaders interested in participating can email Rose DiDonato at rdidonato@careersourcecf.com.
Steinmetz Hall Hosts "Classic(al) Rock" with CFCArts
The CFCArts Symphony Orchestra is bringing more than 400 musicians together with a rock band and special guests for orchestral arrangements of hits from artists like Queen, Led Zeppelin, and Guns N' Roses. Performances will run August 28 through August 30 at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, with multiple showtimes offering a family-friendly, high-energy take on classic rock favorites. Secure your seats here.
ESPN Events Seeks Volunteers for Showdown at the Net
The Greater Orlando Sports Commission is helping recruit volunteers for Showdown at the Net, a collegiate volleyball doubleheader hosted by ESPN Events at ESPN Wide World of Sports on Wednesday, September 9. Shifts run from 4:30 PM through the end of the last match, with volunteers assisting with game operations like shagging volleyballs, stocking team benches, and supporting on-court activations. Those who sign up receive a t-shirt or quarter zip and a boxed lunch. Email Amber.Bailey@espn.com to learn more and sign up.
DOWNTOWN VOICES
3rd Thursday at CityArts is a free monthly event celebrating local arts, culture, and history in downtown Orlando. Explore gallery exhibits, enjoy live performances, and experience the work of local artists every third Thursday of the month beginning at 6 p.m.
Check out Reina Lopez's video below for a look at what you can expect at 3rd Thursday, then add the next one to your calendar! 👇
