EOCC: The Signals of Change are Approaching

By DOROTHY HARDEE

“The greatest danger in times of turbulence is not the turbulence – it is to act with yesterday’s logic.” – Peter Drucker

If I had to share one word to describe 2021 it would be “transformation.” COVID has forced us to transform in ways we could never imagine, moving the mark as we enter 2022.

The global workforce accelerated this year due to the pandemic and strains experienced by businesses. We had record labor shortages as priorities shifted for workers universally. “The ADP Research Institute found that 64 percent of the global workforce was negatively impacted, including 28 percent who lost a job, were furloughed or were temporality laid off, and 23 percent who took a pay cut.” Employees took this as an opportunity to reprioritize their needs including how and where they work, forcing employers to “transform,” adjusting to current demands.

What does this mean? Fostering connections among hybrid teams is critical to build trust, drive results and engagement. With so many employees remaining remote and hybrid, companies will have to examine their operations and compliance to keep up with regulatory changes. Embracing the evolution into innovation will accelerate growth.

According to Bernard Marr in Forbes we will see 8 trends emerging in 2022:

Sustainable, resilient operations
The balance between human workers and intelligent robots
The shifting talent pool and changing employee experience
Flatter, more agile organizations
Purposeful business
Co-opetition and integration
New forms of funding

Marr adds that “…there will also be transformative technology trends in 2022 including artificial intelligence and increasing digitization, which every company must be ready for.” According to the Orlando Business Journal, COVID made tech a necessity in Orlando real estate creating a new normal with virtual tours up 200percent. This move is not only making it easier for buyers to find their new home, but easier for residential real estate investors too.

Orlando’s entertainment industry embraced technology for the rising demand for convenience. Lake Mary based accesso’s technology used in theme parks, cruise lines and event venues is making a stunning rebound for 2022. Orlando is making its mark in the technology arena proving it is the place to be for tech in 2022 and beyond providing a launching pad for string technology companies.

In keeping with the theme, The East Orlando Chamber’s OPTIC (Orlando’s Professional Technology Innovation Council) will explore Orlando: The place for Tech in 2022 and beyond, December 3. Avani Desai, CEO at Schellman will moderate a panel of dynamic leaders paving the way in technology in our own backyard. Our panelists include Kathy Chiu, Shari Dingle Costantini, Awais Shaikh and Abdullah Tharoo.

Kathy Chiu, Managing Partner for DeepWork Capital offers an engaged approach to investing. DeepWork Capital is a venture capital firm investing in early-stage companies. Under-invested markets like Florida and surrounding regions are their specialty.

Shari Costantini, CEO of Red Meters, illuminates your process intelligence improving efficiency and increasing bottom lines. An inline measurement instrument, Red Meter takes continuous readings recording and storing them with their Wi-Fi-based cloud capabilities.

Awais Shaikh, Co-founder & Partner with AWS Capital and Management Data Inc., is a sector specific investment firm focusing on value creation through its direct approach. AWS Capital invests in software, technology, and technology-enabled businesses.

Abdullah Tharoo, CEO & Co-Founder of the Tuesday app, provides a fundraising software for nonprofits, enabling them to invite their network to participate in fun nonprofit auction shopping experience while supporting a humanity cause.

Join us as we see how these forward-thinking leaders built their string technology companies in Orlando and are helping to make Orlando the place to be for tech in 2022 and beyond, December 3, 2021, at 9:00 AM at The Fortress at Full Sail University. $10 for all includes continental breakfast with coffee. Register at eocc.org.

Here is more good news. Did you also know the East Orlando Chamber Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization has launched? Its mission is to provide financial support, mentorship, development, and guidance for small and medium sized businesses starting their business or taking the next step to growth. We are looking for supporters and potential Board Members. Interested? Call the Chamber at (407)277-5951 or contact Jennifer Englert.

Looking for more ways to highlight your business? The East Orlando Chamber has a plethora of opportunities to get you noticed, connecting you with your next clients and partners, keeping your business healthy.

For the health of your business reach out to the East Orlando Chamber for a menu of unique offerings elevating your businesses visibility and connect you with others helping your business thrive. We are the first in the state offering traditional Health Insurance plans, as well as supplemental products including dental, vision, critical illness, accidental and more.

For more information or to register call (407) 277-5951 or visit our website at eocc.org. The East Orlando Chamber of Commerce everywhere East of I-4.

Dorothy Hardee is East Orlando Chamber Director of Operations

UPCOMING EVENTS

Coffee Club East

December 2, 2021, | 8:30 – 9:30 AM

Bonefish Grill Waterford Lakes

CFX 2045 Master Plan

Free for members | $10 Nonmembers | Discount for College Students

OPTIC – Orlando: The Place for Tech in 2022 & Beyond

In-Person Panel moderated by Avani Desai (Shellman)

December 3, 2021, | 9:00 – 10:00 AM

Full Sail University – The Fortress

$10 includes continental breakfast & coffee