The B.I.G.* Summit 2011
Resounding Success

Orlando, Inc., welcomed over 500 business and community leaders, entrepreneurs, and Leadership Orlando Class 82 to its The B.I.G.* Summit 2011, presented at Full Sail Live on Thursday, November 10, 2011. From outstanding programs that included keynote speaker, Gary Vaynerchuk, and ABC Shark Tank's Kevin Harrington, to Grooveshark co-founder, Josh Greenberg, and presentations of The B.I.G.* Awards, the program provided "the ultimate customer experience" to attendees.

The success stories showcased and the advice eagerly shared with entrepreneurs by the The B.I.G. *Summit's outstanding line up were as good as it gets. Speakers representing many aspects of the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem touched on all levels of the entrepreneur's journey to success. They laid it all out on the table - from stories about how they "hit upon" their company names to how they replicate their entrepreneurial passion within their teams, from how to advance a social mission to why timing and adaptability matter.

Click here to view more photos from this event.

As part of their eight-month program, the members of Leadership Orlando Class 82 participated in The B.I.G.* Summit to learn more about the strong entrepreneurial cluster that is based in the Orlando Economic Center. Understanding that entrepreneurs and small businesses are the engine of our economy, they were treated to a private session during lunch with keynoter, Gary Vaynerchuk, as well as autographed copies of his new book, The Thank You Economy.

"This powerful day of learning and idea sharing, discussing new opportunities and forging new business relationships is about building a strong and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem right here in our region," said Leslie Hielema, President of Orlando, Inc.  "The B.I.G.* Summit has become the premier event for entrepreneurs and business leaders across Central Florida."

*Business Innovation & Growth

And the Winner Is. . .

The B.I.G.* Awards Presented at Summit

PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD - University of Doglando
One on One service for 2 and 4 legged customers!! The Doglando Difference is in the way we take care of our clients, we have 3.5 acres of run, fun and splash for the dogs and peace of mind for the owners!

JUDGES' CHOICE AWARD - GroundFlights Inc
GroundFlights is your Premier Source for Executive Transportation and Maximized Productivity. We have worked tirelessly at perfecting the customer experience and ensuring that consistent, top notch service delivery and the creation of raving fans are the outcome!

SPECIAL MENTION - Time Dog
Time Dog is your personal, virtual assistant service to save you time, effort and money by providing on-the-go customer service for your daily needs. Time Dog is your Super Sidekick, powered by people who care who become your multitasking partner in your ever day life. With rock-solid research skills and refreshingly upbeat attitudes, our Family Service Team (FAST) makes your life easier - so you can spend more time living it the way you want.