Florida Sister Cities Conference

About

Join us for the Florida Sister Cities Conference, an annual gathering set to take place at the Tampa Convention Center from November 15 to November 17, 2026. This event will bring together members of Sister Cities from various regions to promote international friendship and collaboration. Attendees can look forward to a series of workshops, presentations, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen partnerships that span the globe. Whether you're involved in local governance, community development, or simply interested in fostering international ties, this conference will be a unique chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for global cooperation. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with fellow Sister Cities representatives and cultivate relationships that extend beyond borders.

🌍 Engage in dynamic discussions aimed at fostering global partnerships and understanding across cultures.
🤝 Network with fellow Sister Cities representatives and community leaders, forming alliances for future collaboration.
🎤 Participate in insightful workshops that cover best practices and innovative ideas in international relations.
✨ Experience the rich diversity of our Sister Cities through cultural exchanges and community-building activities.

Contact Information

Schedule

Sunday, November 15

Florida Sister Cities Annual Meeting

1:00–2:00 PM | Registration & Welcome
Conference check-in, distribution of materials, and an opportunity to connect with fellow delegates before the opening session.

2:00–3:00 PM | Opening Plenary: Welcome & State of Florida Sister Cities
Official conference opening featuring a welcome to attendees, Sister Cities International updates, accomplishments from across Florida, strategic priorities, and an overview of initiatives for the coming year.

3:00–3:15 PM | Break
Refreshments and networking.

3:15–5:00 PM | Building, Strengthening & Revitalizing Sister City Programs
Learn practical strategies to launch new partnerships, revitalize inactive programs, strengthen municipal engagement, recruit volunteers, increase community participation, and create sustainable Sister City organizations.

5:30–6:30 PM | Welcome Reception & Networking Mixer
Meet conference attendees, reconnect with colleagues, and build new relationships while enjoying light refreshments in an informal networking environment.

6:30 PM | Group Dinner
Continue conversations over dinner, strengthen professional relationships, and share ideas with Sister Cities leaders from throughout Florida.

Monday, November 16

TIDES Conference & Florida Sister Cities Networking

Participants are encouraged to attend Tampa TIDES educational sessions throughout the day while taking advantage of dedicated Florida Sister Cities networking opportunities. Registered SCI Florida attendees can attend TIDES at no fee. Please do not register on the TIDES platform.

12:00–1:00 PM | Florida Sister Cities Networking Lunch
Enjoy lunch while connecting with fellow members, exchanging ideas, sharing successful programs, and discussing opportunities for collaboration.

3:00–5:00 PM | Florida Sister Cities Roundtable Sessions
Interactive discussions featuring regional meetings, office hours, peer-to-peer problem solving, cluster discussions, networking, and the exchange of innovative ideas and best practices.

Evening (Optional) | Cocktail Hour
Continue networking in a relaxed social setting.

Informal Group Dinner
An opportunity for members and guests to enjoy dinner together and continue conversations outside the conference setting.

Tuesday, November 17

Florida Sister Cities Business Meeting & Education Day

9:00–9:30 AM | Welcome
Opening remarks, conference updates, and an overview of the day’s educational programming.

9:30 AM–12:00 PM | Florida Sister Cities Annual Business Meeting
Conduct the official business of the organization, including bylaws, elections, committee reports, strategic initiatives, financial updates, and member discussions.

12:00–1:00 PM | Lunch
Lunch and networking with conference participants.

1:00–2:15 PM | Youth Programs
Explore innovative youth engagement initiatives, educational exchanges, leadership development opportunities, and strategies for involving students in international partnerships.

2:30–3:30 PM | Nonprofit Finance
Learn nonprofit financial management practices, budgeting, fundraising strategies, grant opportunities, compliance, and long-term sustainability for Sister City organizations.

3:30–4:30 PM | Conflict Resolution & Collaborative Leadership
Develop practical communication and conflict resolution skills to strengthen partnerships, navigate organizational challenges, and foster productive collaboration.

4:30–5:00 PM | Exchange Programs Showcase & Fundraising
Hear success stories and best practices from established exchange programs, highlighting educational, cultural, and professional exchanges that strengthen international relationships.

Evening | Optional Group Activity
Continue networking and enjoy one of Tampa’s local attractions or cultural experiences with fellow conference participants.

Event Terms and Conditions

• Eligibility: Open to individuals interested in community development and international relations.
• Registration: Prior registration is required to attend the Florida Sister Cities Conference.
• Fees: Attendance may require a fee, which will be specified during the registration process.
• Refund Policy: Refund requests must be submitted in writing at least 30 days before the event start date.
• Code of Conduct: Attendees are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and respect others during all conference activities.
• Health and Safety: Follow all health and safety guidelines as stipulated by the event organizers.
• Photography and Recording: By attending the event, participants consent to being photographed or recorded for promotional purposes.
• Liability: The organizers are not liable for any loss, injury, or damage incurred during the event.
• Accessibility: The event venue is accessible, and accommodations can be arranged with prior notification.
• Changes: The organizers reserve the right to modify the schedule and content of the event as necessary.