Florida Sister Cities Conference
November 15–17, 2026 | Tampa, Florida
This dynamic three-day conference unites Sister Cities leaders, dedicated volunteers, municipal officials, educators, nonprofit professionals, and global partners to enhance citizen diplomacy, share best practices, and forge impactful international partnerships. The event features the annual business meeting of Florida Sister Cities, alongside sessions integrated with the TIDES Conference, offering ample opportunities for professional development, networking, and collaboration among attendees.
Conference Registration
Florida Sister Cities Members: $175 - Exclusive rate for our valued members!
Non-Members: $225 - Join us and be part of a vibrant community.
Conference Agenda
Day 1Sunday, November 15 |
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1:00 PM Registration & WelcomeConference check-in, distribution of materials, and an opportunity to connect with fellow delegates before the opening session. |
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2:00 PM Opening Plenary: Welcome & State of Florida Sister CitiesOfficial 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. |
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3:00 PM BreakRefreshments and networking. |
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3:15 PM Building, Strengthening & Revitalizing Sister City ProgramsLearn practical strategies to launch new partnerships, revitalize inactive programs, strengthen municipal engagement, recruit volunteers, increase community participation, and create sustainable Sister City organizations. |
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5:30 PM Welcome Reception & Networking MixerMeet conference attendees, reconnect with colleagues, and build new relationships while enjoying light |
Day 2Monday, November 16 |
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9:00 AM TIDES Opening CeremonySpeaker name |
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10:00 AM Truth Across Borders: International Journalism, Democracy and Global Understanding |
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11:00 AM
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12:00 PM Florida Sister Cities Networking LunchEnjoy lunch while connecting with fellow members, exchanging ideas, sharing successful programs, and discussing opportunities for collaboration. |
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3:00 PM Florida Sister Cities Roundtable SessionsFacilitatorInteractive discussions featuring regional meetings, office hours, peer-to-peer problem solving, cluster discussions, networking, and the exchange of innovative ideas and best practices. |
Day 3Tuesday, November 17 |
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9:00 AM WelcomeOpening remarks, conference updates, and an overview of the day’s educational programming |
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9:30 AM Florida Sister Cities Annual Business MeetingConduct the official business of the organization, including bylaws, elections, committee reports, strategic initiatives, financial updates, and member discussions. |
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12:00 PM LunchLunch and networking with conference participants |
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1:00 PM Youth ProgramExplore innovative youth engagement initiatives, educational exchanges, leadership development opportunities, and strategies for involving students in international partnerships. |
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2:30 PM Nonprofit FinanceLearn nonprofit financial management practices, budgeting, fundraising strategies, grant opportunities, compliance, and long-term sustainability for Sister City organizations |
Day 3Cont. |
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3:30 PM Conflict Resolution & Collaborative LeadershipDevelop practical communication and conflict resolution skills to strengthen partnerships, navigate organizational challenges, and foster productive collaboration. |
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4:30 PM Exchange Programs ShowcaseHear success stories and best practices from established exchange programs, highlighting educational, cultural, and professional exchanges that strengthen international relationships. FUNDRaising |
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Evening Optional Group Activity |
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