2026 Economic Development Forum

2026 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
PRESENTED BY: THE CITY OF HOLLYWOOD

Hear directly from leaders shaping Hollywood’s economic future as they discuss key developments, opportunities, and the City’s path forward. This is not just another luncheon — it’s a must-attend conversation about the future of Hollywood’s economy, and the room will be filled with the people driving it.

Featured Panel:
Moderated by Raelin Storey, City Manager, this dynamic panel brings together top industry leaders:

• Paul Lambert (Lambert Advisory) – Founder of Lambert Advisory, Paul has spent decades advising global corporations, municipalities, and institutions—including Samsung, Harvard University, and the City of New Orleans—on real estate and economic development strategy. He is currently leading the development of Miami Wilds, a $1 billion entertainment project adjacent to Zoo Miami, and holds a Master’s in City Planning from MIT.

• Ionathan Brief (Conkreta Group) - is a seasoned civil engineer and entrepreneur based in Hollywood, Florida, with over 30 years of experience in real estate development, construction, finance, and power solutions. He is the founder of the Conkreta group of companies and has led major projects such as Hollywood on the Golf—now known as Gaia Residences, a 400+ unit residential development—and THE GEORGE, an upcoming 300+ unit development in South Florida. He holds degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Universidad Metropolitana and is currently advancing new multifamily and retail developments throughout the region.

• Luis Riquezes (JQ Group) – With over 30 years of experience, Luis has led more than 40 million square feet of development projects valued at over $3 billion. At JQ Group, he oversees development operations from concept to completion, bringing expertise in efficiency, quality, and long-term value creation. He holds a degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s in Construction Management from the University of Michigan.
• Elizabeth Somerstein (Greenspoon Marder LLP) – A partner in the firm’s Land Use & Zoning practice, Elizabeth represents developers and corporations in complex regulatory matters, securing approvals for projects at every stage. A LEED AP BD+C professional, she is also deeply involved in the community, currently serving on the Broward County Cultural Council and previously chairing Fort Lauderdale’s Sustainability Advisory Board.

What You’ll Learn:
• Current economic trends and developments impacting Hollywood
• Opportunities for business growth, investment, and expansion
• Insights from leaders involved in major projects and initiatives
• How to position your business for future growth in the local market

Who Should Attend:
Business owners, investors, developers, entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders who want to stay informed and connected to Hollywood’s economic future.

What to Expect:

• Critical Economic Intelligence: Get unfiltered, firsthand insights into the decisions, developments, and opportunities that will define Hollywood’s near future. This is information you won’t hear secondhand—and it could directly impact your business or investments.
• High-Value Connections: The right people will be in the room. Business leaders, decision-makers, and influencers across industries will be there to connect. Missing this means missing access.
• A Front-Row Seat to Hollywood’s Future: This is your chance to understand where the city is going—and how to position yourself within that growth. Be part of the conversation, not catching up to it later.

This event will shape perspectives, spark partnerships, and define what comes next for many in this community. Seats will fill quickly—secure your spot now.