About Tides
Where Global Relationships Become Business Opportunity
The Trade Track at TIDES brings together exporters, investors, chambers, economic development partners, ports, airports, logistics leaders, international delegations, and companies looking to grow across borders. Explore how Tampa’s global relationships can generate market access, investment, supply chain connections, and real commercial outcomes.
WHY TIDES EXISTS
Building connections,creating opportunity, strenghting tampa’s global future.
TIDES was created to give Tampa’s international story a home. The summit connects people and organizations working across five code areas that shape how modern cities engage globally.
A Tampa Sister Cities-Led Initiative
TIDES is led by Tampa Sister Cities, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering international understanding through people-to-people relationships. This mission is rooted in the organization’s bylaws, which state that Tampa Sister Cities exists to promote charitable, cultural, educational, and international understanding purposes, including fostering friendship and comity between Tampa and its Sister Cities around the world.
For decades, Sister Cities programs have helped communities build relationships that last beyond a single event, administration, or transaction. These connections create opportunities for cultural exchange, student engagement, business introductions, civic collaboration, and long-term goodwill.
TIDES builds on that tradition while expanding the table. The summit welcomes not only Sister Cities members, but also the broader network of organizations, institutions, companies, and leaders who are shaping Tampa’s international future.
For decades, Sister Cities programs have helped communities build relationships that last beyond a single event, administration, or transaction. These connections create opportunities for cultural exchange, student engagement, business introductions, civic collaboration, and long-term goodwill.
TIDES builds on that tradition while expanding the table. The summit welcomes not only Sister Cities members, but also the broader network of organizations, institutions, companies, and leaders who are shaping Tampa’s international future.
Who Should Attend
Business & Trade Leaders
Expand your global network and explore new markets and partnerships.
Educators & Academics
Expand your global network and explore new markets and partnerships.
Diplomats & Government
Expand your global network and explore new markets and partnerships.
Cultural & Community Leaders
Expand your global network and explore new markets and partnerships.
Sustainability Champions
Expand your global network and explore new markets and partnerships.
Nonprofit & NGO Partners
Expand your global network and explore new markets and partnerships.
more than a conference
TIDES is a multi-day experience combining meaningful discussions with cultural celebration.
- Keynotes & panel discussions
- International delegations
- University and student engagement
- Case studies
- Cultural Performances & receptions
- Exhibitor showcases & networking events
why tampa, why now
Tampa is where global opportunity, civic leadership, and quality of life intersect.
- Port Tampa Bay
- Tampa International Airport
- MacDill Air Force Base
- University of South Florida
- Diverse culture & global connections
- Growing innovation economy
Celebrate the People and Cultures That Connect Tampa Globally
TIDES is not only a conference. It is also a celebration of international culture, friendship, and exchange. Cultural experiences will showcase the music, food, art, traditions, and stories that connect Tampa to communities around the world.
These experiences may include performances, receptions, delegation welcomes, cultural showcases, culinary features, community activations, and special events highlighting Tampa’s Sister Cities and international partners.
These experiences may include performances, receptions, delegation welcomes, cultural showcases, culinary features, community activations, and special events highlighting Tampa’s Sister Cities and international partners.
Why Leaders Are Coming to TIDES
Hear from speakers and partners shaping the conversation.
“TIDES is proof that Tampa belongs in the room with the world’s biggest cities, We’re pulling in business, government, and education leaders from across the globe, and putting them at the same table as the people who actually live here. Those conversations turn into partnerships, trade deals, and research collaborations that outlast any single summit.”
Mayor Jane Castor
Tampa Mayor
“Innovation does not stop at borders. TIDES creates an environment where entrepreneurs, investors, universities and international partners can exchange ideas and explore opportunities to build and scale businesses globally.”
Linda Olson
President of Tampa Bay Wave
“Tampa is already a major international city, but that story is not always as widely recognized as it should be. TIDES brings together business, education, innovation, diplomacy and civic leadership to showcase Tampa Bay’s global connections and create new opportunities with partners around the world.”
Alfred Goldberg
President of Tampa Sister Cities
Our Vision
TIDES seeks to become Tampa’s signature international gathering — a place where people from across sectors and across borders come together to exchange ideas, celebrate culture, and build relationships that create long-term value.
Our vision is for TIDES to help Tampa:
Our vision is for TIDES to help Tampa:
- Strengthen its international identity
- Support civic and cultural diplomacy
- Expand global business and education partnerships
- Highlight innovation happening in the region
- Create opportunities for students and emerging leaders
- Celebrate the cultures that connect Tampa to the world
- Build lasting relationships with cities, institutions, and communities abroad
Why Attend Tides?
Global COnnections
Build meaningful relationships with leaders from around the world.
Innovative Ideas
Discover forward-thinking solutions to today’s most pressing global challenges.
Diplomatic Dialogue
Foster cross-border understanding and strengthen international cooperation.
Knowledge Exchange
Share insights and learn from experts across industries and disciplines.
Sustainable Impact
Drive collaborative action for a more equitable and sustainable future.
Be part of the conversation.
Be part of the change.
Be part of the change.
November 16-17, 2026
Tampa, Florida, USA
Tampa, Florida, USA
Stay Connected
Subscribe for updates on speakers, sessions, and summit news.