BROWARD COUNTY, FL - The Interim President and CEO of Sister Cities International, Dr. Ricki Garrett, will be a featured speaker at the 8th Annual Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo (FITCE) taking place this week October 4-5 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale. Broward County Commissioner Mark D. Bogen will introduce Garrett who will provide welcome remarks during opening ceremonies between 8:30-9:45AM on Thursday, October 5. On September 19, 2023, the Broward County Commission approved Broward County's membership with Sister Cities International - the nonprofit organization founded in 1956 by former President Dwight D. Eisenhower to promote economic development, education, culture and resilience programs and exchange.

"Broward County's participation with Sister Cities International provides an opportunity for the County to export the best of what we have to offer while we build and strengthen relationships across borders," said Commissioner Bogen. "The County Commission understands the potential of this organization to additionally cultivate international economic development opportunities that will reverberate positively across South Florida. And for that reason, on September 19, the Board unanimously approved Broward County's membership," added Commissioner Bogen. 

"We celebrate our partnership with Sister Cities International as it provides even more prospects for collaboration," said Sandy-Michael E. McDonald, Director of the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development. "At FITCE, attendees will learn about how they can get involved while exploring business, trade and community development opportunities with this internationally recognized organization," said McDonald. 

For a complete list of attending dignitaries, notable speakers, visit the FITCE website. Find additional event activities and agenda here. General admission is free. On-site registration will be available at the event. For more information about FITCE 2023, call 954-357-6400.

About the Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD)
The Office of Economic and Small Business Development is responsible for promoting economic development and supporting Broward County's small businesses. Areas of focus include workforce development, business expansion and retention, small business growth, business development and outreach, international trade and export readiness, entrepreneurial development, and promoting Broward County as a film destination. Services are delivered by the agency and through partnerships with federal, state, local and private sector organizations. The office promotes equal access to Broward County's procurement opportunities for small business enterprises in local and federal small business programs and helps position small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs to take advantage of opportunities and grow their businesses beyond Broward. Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter). Call 954-357-6400 for more information or visit Broward.org/EconDev.