Tampa Welcomes the World as International Diplomacy and Exchange Summit Begins Next Week
Tampa is preparing to welcome the world as the inaugural Tampa International Diplomacy & Exchange Summit (TIDES) begins Monday, November 16, bringing together international diplomats, business leaders, educators, innovators, and cultural representatives for two days of global conversation and connection.
Produced by Tampa Sister Cities, with Mayor Jane Castor serving as Host Committee Chair, TIDES will take place November 16-17 at the Tampa Convention Center.
Featuring more than 90 speakers across five key industries – Trade, Innovation, Diplomacy, Education, and Sustainability – the summit will highlight Tampa Bay's growing international presence and explore how global partnerships can create new opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, students, and residents.
"Tampa's connections to the world are creating opportunities that reach far beyond our city limits," said Mayor Jane Castor. "TIDES is an opportunity to showcase the people, businesses, institutions, and partnerships helping put Tampa on the international stage. We're excited to welcome leaders and visitors from around the world and demonstrate how those relationships can help shape our community's future."
The summit's featured speakers include:
Mayor Jane Castor, City of Tampa
Ambassador Nick Adams, Special Presidential Envoy for American Tourism, Exceptionalism, and Values, U.S. Department of State
Moez Limayem, President, University of South Florida
Dr. Robert Gallo, Founding Director, USF Health Institute for Translational Virology & Innovation
Michael Stephens, CEO, Tampa International Airport
Santiago Corrada, President and CEO, Visit Tampa Bay
Linda Olson, President, Tampa Bay Wave
Throughout the two-day summit, speakers will explore the role international relationships play in strengthening Tampa Bay's economy, attracting investment, expanding educational opportunities, and advancing innovation. Additional sessions will address artificial intelligence, defense technology, international trade, startup growth, education, and coastal resilience.
"Tampa has been an international city since the 19th century and we see that with our port, our world-renowned airport and our growing innovation ecosystem, said Alfred Goldberg, President of Tampa Sister Cities. "We’re really making waves around the globe, and this is our chance to bring everyone together and put a spotlight on the global assets that we already have here in Tampa."
Beyond the conference sessions, TIDES will offer a vibrant cultural experience celebrating the countries and communities that make up Tampa's international connections. The cultural program will include international fashion showcases representing Colombia, India, and Ukraine, dance performances, and a two-day International Expo featuring opportunities to experience cultures and connections from around the world.
The full agenda, confirmed speaker lineup, and registration information are available at TIDESTampa.com.
About TIDES
The Tampa International Diplomacy and Exchange Summit brings together leaders from government, business, education, diplomacy, innovation, and culture to strengthen Tampa’s international relationships and create opportunities for collaboration. The inaugural summit will be held November 16–17, 2026, at the Tampa Convention Center.
About Tampa Sister Cities
Tampa Sister Cities promotes international understanding and cooperation through people-to-people relationships, educational programs, cultural exchange, civic engagement, and partnerships with Tampa’s sister cities and international communities.