It's time for an expansion!
Grow your business with the right guidance and connections...
Are you a business owner looking to expand from
Puerto Rico to Florida or vice versa?
Join us at the second CUD Business Journey 2025, a historic event designed to bridge business opportunities between Puerto Rico and Florida. This is your chance to connect with industry leaders, gain invaluable insights, and explore new markets.
Why Attend?
This event is a unique collaboration aimed at supporting entrepreneurs like you. Whether you're in Puerto Rico looking to enter the Florida market or a Florida business aiming to expand to Puerto Rico, this event provides the guidance and connections you need.
TESTIMONIALS
What did entrepreneurs say
about last year?
"The networking has been crucial." VERY PRODUCTIVE!
"Una experiencia única con alto valor y enfoque en el crecimiento"
"Información de alta calidad que optimiza procesos y recursos"
"Un evento extraordinario que impulsa el crecimiento de nuestro negocio"
"Evento magnífico que mostró herramientas clave para nuestro crecimiento"
"Evento exitoso con información altamente relevante"
Last year experience
English Version
Spanish Version
Event Details:
Date: June 26th, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: GuideWell Innovation Center, Orlando
Cost: Free (Limited Spaces Available)
Value of Attending CUD Business Journey 2025:
VIP Networking: Connect with industry leaders and fellow entrepreneurs from Puerto Rico and Florida.
Expert Insights: Gain valuable knowledge from distinguished and experienced speakers
Business Growth: Learn strategies and innovations to expand your business across new markets.
Resource Access: Discover tools and resources to help navigate business expansion.
Collaboration: Engage in a unique collaboration aimed at fostering economic growth between Puerto Rico and Florida.
Navigating Government Resources
for Business Growth
This panel will explore essential Government related tools for business success, including procurement, zoning, and opportunities in Puerto Rico.
PANELISTS:
Zulay Millan
Assistant Manager for the Procurement Division at Orange County
Zulay Millan is the Deputy Chief Procurement Official for Orange County Government, Florida, with over 20 years of experience in procurement and process improvement. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Public Procurement, a Bachelor's in Business Administration, and multiple certifications (NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB).
Zulay chairs the Member Council of NIGP and serves as Strategic Planning Chair for FAPPO. Her accolades include the George H. Wolf Distinguished Service Award and recognitions such as NIGP’s Young Professional of the Year and FAPPO’s Outstanding Educator.
Bryan Salamanca
Planner 1 for Orange County, Florida Government, Zoning Division
Bryan Salamanca holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration and is currently pursuing a master’s in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Central Florida. With over six years of experience at Orange County Government, he serves as a Planner, focusing on commercial and residential development review, zoning, and strategic community planning.
Bryan is also active in UCF’s Urban Knights, the Downtown Campus Student Advisory Council, and the APA’s Leadership Development Committee.
MODERATOR:
Marthaly Irizarry
Special Assistant to Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings
Marthaly Irizarry is a dedicated public administrator with a career focused on economic growth and community empowerment. Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and holding a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Central Florida, she serves as a Special Assistant and Community Relations Representative for Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings.
She is responsible for strategic advice, community outreach, and managing protocol for foreign officials. Her career includes significant contributions to Orange County’s economic development and community engagement.
Register Now: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to expand your business.
Connecting and supporting
Business Communities
This discussion will focus on the power of networking and collaboration through business associations and the resources they provide to support growth and community engagement in Florida and Puerto Rico.
PANELISTS:
Dr. Ramón Barquín III
President of the Centro Unido de Detallistas de Puerto Rico
Dr. Ramón C. Barquín Torres is a business leader, policy consultant, and lobbyist with extensive experience advising municipal, state, federal, and international entities.
He holds degrees in economics, law, business, and a Ph.D. in leadership and informatics, with studies at Brandeis, Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. Author of over 200 publications, he has taught at top universities and leads major civic education programs.
He currently serves as Chair of Atlantic University’s Board and was elected President of the Centro Unido de Detallistas (2024–2026).
Pedro Turushina
President & CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando
Pedro Turushina is the President & CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, where he leads strategic initiatives that empower Hispanic entrepreneurs and strengthen community ties.
A former creative director and entrepreneur, Pedro brings deep experience in marketing, outreach, and economic development. He has earned recognition from Orlando Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and the Citrus Club Hispanic Heritage Awards.
Originally from Colombia, Pedro has lived in Orlando since 2001 and actively serves on key regional boards.
Jorge H. Figueroa
President of the Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida
Jorge H. Figueroa, born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a business and community leader based in Orlando. He holds a bachelor’s in Finance and Spanish and an MBA in Global Management. Founder of JF Media LLC, he leads a full-service advertising agency.
His background includes mortgage lending, university admissions, and project management in the tech sector. Jorge serves on multiple boards, including ABIC and the Osceola County Housing Finance Authority. He is a passionate advocate for underserved communities, a family man, and a champion of business and civic engagement.
MODERATOR:
Laudi Campo
Florida State Director for Hispanic Federation
Laudi Campo, a proud Morovis, Puerto Rico native, has over 28 years of experience championing equity, inclusion, and advocacy for Latino communities. With a background in communications, her career spans public service, education, nonprofits, and media.
As Florida State Director for Hispanic Federation, she expanded its impact by 75%, leading efforts in civic engagement, disaster relief, and digital equity. Honored by Congressmen Soto and Frost, Laudi is also a Tech Innovator and devoted mother, inspired daily by her daughters Alina and Alejandra.
Register Now: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to expand your business.
Navigating Government Resources
for Business Growth
This panel will explore essential Government related tools for business success, including procurement, zoning, and opportunities in Puerto Rico.
PANELISTS:
Zulay Millan
Assistant Manager for the Procurement Division at Orange County
Zulay Millan is the Deputy Chief Procurement Official for Orange County Government, Florida, with over 20 years of experience in procurement and process improvement. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Public Procurement, a Bachelor's in Business Administration, and multiple certifications (NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB).
Zulay chairs the Member Council of NIGP and serves as Strategic Planning Chair for FAPPO. Her accolades include the George H. Wolf Distinguished Service Award and recognitions such as NIGP’s Young Professional of the Year and FAPPO’s Outstanding Educator.
Bryan Salamanca
Planner 1 for Orange County, Florida Government, Zoning Division
Bryan Salamanca holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration and is currently pursuing a master’s in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Central Florida. With over six years of experience at Orange County Government, he serves as a Planner, focusing on commercial and residential development review, zoning, and strategic community planning.
Bryan is also active in UCF’s Urban Knights, the Downtown Campus Student Advisory Council, and the APA’s Leadership Development Committee.
MODERATOR:
Maribel Gomez Cordero
Orange County District 4 Commissioner
Maribel Gomez-Cordero was born and raised in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. She has been living in Central Florida for the past twenty-eight years. Maribel earned from Webster University a master’s degree, in Clinical Mental Health Counseling specializing in Family.
Maribel has received several recognitions for her dedication and service to the Orange County and Central Florida community. Since being elected in 2018, as Orange County Commissioner, one of her initiatives has been to help and assist small businesses, so they can be more familiar with the opportunities that the county offers for the small businesses and how they can be certified and become vendors, to be able to submit proposals.
Gomez-Cordero continues to work with families in the community as this has always been her passion, but not only does she do what she loves – she also inspires others to do the same.
Register Now: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to expand your business.
Connecting and supporting
Business Communities
This discussion will focus on the power of networking and collaboration through business associations and the resources they provide to support growth and community engagement in Florida and Puerto Rico.
PANELISTS:
Dr. Ramón Barquín III
President of the Centro Unido de Detallistas de Puerto Rico
Dr. Ramón C. Barquín Torres is a business leader, policy consultant, and lobbyist with extensive experience advising municipal, state, federal, and international entities.
He holds degrees in economics, law, business, and a Ph.D. in leadership and informatics, with studies at Brandeis, Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. Author of over 200 publications, he has taught at top universities and leads major civic education programs.
He currently serves as Chair of Atlantic University’s Board and was elected President of the Centro Unido de Detallistas (2024–2026).
Pedro Turushina
President & CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando
Pedro Turushina is the President & CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, where he leads strategic initiatives that empower Hispanic entrepreneurs and strengthen community ties.
A former creative director and entrepreneur, Pedro brings deep experience in marketing, outreach, and economic development. He has earned recognition from Orlando Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and the Citrus Club Hispanic Heritage Awards.
Originally from Colombia, Pedro has lived in Orlando since 2001 and actively serves on key regional boards.
Jorge H. Figueroa
President of the Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida
Jorge H. Figueroa, born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a business and community leader based in Orlando. He holds a bachelor’s in Finance and Spanish and an MBA in Global Management. Founder of JF Media LLC, he leads a full-service advertising agency.
His background includes mortgage lending, university admissions, and project management in the tech sector. Jorge serves on multiple boards, including ABIC and the Osceola County Housing Finance Authority. He is a passionate advocate for underserved communities, a family man, and a champion of business and civic engagement.
Jose Luis Rivera-Villamañán
Chairman and Founder of the Puerto Rico - USA Chamber of Commerce
Jose Luis Rivera-Villamañán is a seasoned leader in entrepreneurship and economic development with over 30 years of experience. As Founder and Chairman of the Puerto Rico–USA Chamber of Commerce, he has transformed it into a national catalyst for Hispanic business growth.
His leadership has driven award-winning events, trade missions, and strategic partnerships with organizations like COLMENA66 and CUD. With 200+ affiliated groups and regional networks in Florida, New Jersey, and beyond, he continues to expand opportunities through digital platforms, legislative summits, and mentoring initiatives that empower current and future entrepreneurs.
MODERATOR:
Laudi Campo
Florida State Director for Hispanic Federation
Laudi Campo, a proud Morovis, Puerto Rico native, has over 28 years of experience championing equity, inclusion, and advocacy for Latino communities. With a background in communications, her career spans public service, education, nonprofits, and media.
As Florida State Director for Hispanic Federation, she expanded its impact by 75%, leading efforts in civic engagement, disaster relief, and digital equity. Honored by Congressmen Soto and Frost, Laudi is also a Tech Innovator and devoted mother, inspired daily by her daughters Alina and Alejandra.
Register Now: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to expand your business.
Fueling Business Growth with
Development Resources
This conversation will focus on critical resources that support business development, including funding, mentorship, and training.
PANELISTS:
Belinda O. Kirkegard
President National Entrepreneur Center Orlando, Florida
Belinda O. Kirkegard, President of the National Entrepreneur Center (NEC) since January 2023, is dedicated to supporting small businesses in Central Florida. Previously, she spent 13 years as Economic Development Director for the City of Kissimmee.
With experience in the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association and Orange County’s Business Development Office, she holds a national certification as an Economic Development Finance Professional and a Master’s degree in Public Administration.
Belinda serves on various community boards, including as Treasurer for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.
Rafael Caamaño
Interim Director of Programs & Operations for the
UCF Business Incubation Program
Rafael Caamaño, a nationally recognized leader in entrepreneurship and economic development, is Interim Director of Programs & Operations for the UCF Business Incubation Program. A U.S. Army veteran and MBA graduate, he boasts 20+ years accelerating startups and building global innovation ecosystems.
He founded the Veterans Entrepreneurship Initiative (VEI), named U.S. SBA’s 2024 Florida Community Partner of the Year, and co-founded Spear Accelerator. His international consulting spans Colombia, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Hungary. Caamaño's accolades include OBJ's Veteran of Influence, 40 Under 40, and Most Influential Leaders (2024).
MODERATOR:
Viviana Solano
Financial representative with Northwestern Mutual
Viviana Solano, founder of a premier financial planning practice in Lake Nona with Northwestern Mutual, guides high-net-worth families, business owners, and professionals in strategic wealth planning. A first-generation immigrant from Costa Rica, Viviana is dedicated to closing the wealth gap for women and minorities through sophisticated financial guidance.
Recognized as Rotarian of the Year and a graduate of Leadership Nona, she serves on the Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce Board. Her expertise includes advanced risk management, tax-efficient strategies, and multigenerational legacy planning. A national speaker for Northwestern Mutual, Viviana simplifies complex financial topics. She supports DKMS, Be The Match, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and The Ocean Cleanup, believing financial literacy strengthens communities.
Register Now: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to expand your business.
Fueling Business Growth with
Development Resources
This conversation will focus on critical resources that support business development, including funding, mentorship, and training.
PANELISTS:
Belinda O. Kirkegard
President National Entrepreneur Center Orlando, Florida
Belinda O. Kirkegard, President of the National Entrepreneur Center (NEC) since January 2023, is dedicated to supporting small businesses in Central Florida. Previously, she spent 13 years as Economic Development Director for the City of Kissimmee.
With experience in the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association and Orange County’s Business Development Office, she holds a national certification as an Economic Development Finance Professional and a Master’s degree in Public Administration.
Belinda serves on various community boards, including as Treasurer for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.
Rafael Caamaño
Interim Director of Programs & Operations for the
UCF Business Incubation Program
Rafael Caamaño, a nationally recognized leader in entrepreneurship and economic development, is Interim Director of Programs & Operations for the UCF Business Incubation Program. A U.S. Army veteran and MBA graduate, he boasts 20+ years accelerating startups and building global innovation ecosystems.
He founded the Veterans Entrepreneurship Initiative (VEI), named U.S. SBA’s 2024 Florida Community Partner of the Year, and co-founded Spear Accelerator. His international consulting spans Colombia, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Hungary. Caamaño's accolades include OBJ's Veteran of Influence, 40 Under 40, and Most Influential Leaders (2024).
MODERATOR:
Viviana Solano
Financial representative with Northwestern Mutual
Viviana Solano, founder of a premier financial planning practice in Lake Nona with Northwestern Mutual, guides high-net-worth families, business owners, and professionals in strategic wealth planning. A first-generation immigrant from Costa Rica, Viviana is dedicated to closing the wealth gap for women and minorities through sophisticated financial guidance.
Recognized as Rotarian of the Year and a graduate of Leadership Nona, she serves on the Lake Nona Regional Chamber of Commerce Board. Her expertise includes advanced risk management, tax-efficient strategies, and multigenerational legacy planning. A national speaker for Northwestern Mutual, Viviana simplifies complex financial topics. She supports DKMS, Be The Match, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and The Ocean Cleanup, believing financial literacy strengthens communities.
Register Now: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to expand your business.
Unlocking the Power of AI for Business Through Smart Growth & Ethical Adoption
Unlocking AI for Business Through Smart Growth & AI Ethical Adoption
Unlocking the Power of AI in Healthcare
Unlocking the Power of AI in Healthcare
Discover how to harness the power of AI from Dr. Svetlana Bender, an expert in AI strategy and behavioral science, and Jorge Alberto Cruz, a marketing innovapreneur specializing in AI-driven automation, ensuring your business thrives while navigating challenges.
Discover how to harness the power of AI from Dr. Svetlana Bender, an expert in AI strategy and behavioral science, and Jorge Alberto Cruz, a marketing innovapreneur specializing in AI-driven automation, ensuring your business thrives while navigating challenges.
Don't miss this dynamic session with Jorge Cruz and Dr. Svetlana Bender to learn how AI is transforming the healthcare industry, driving innovation and enhancing how we work. Discover how you can enhance productivity, customer experience and health outcomes in Puerto Rico and Florida.
Don't miss this dynamic session with Jorge Cruz and Dr. Svetlana Bender to learn how AI is transforming the healthcare industry, driving innovation and enhancing how we work. Discover how you can enhance productivity, customer experience and health outcomes in Puerto Rico and Florida.
PANELISTS:
Svetlana Bender, PhD
Vice President, AI & Behavioral Science
Svetlana (Lana) Bender is the Vice President of AI & Behavioral Science at GuideWell and
Florida Blue, where she spearheads AI strategy, vision, and responsible AI adoption. A
recognized expert in Behavioral Economics, AI innovation, and the ethical integration of AI,
Lana brings a unique blend of academic rigor and industry expertise to drive business
transformation. She holds a doctorate in behavioral science from the University of Warwick and
has worked with global organizations such as UBS and Allianz Global Investors.
Jorge Alberto Cruz
Marketing InnovaPreneur
Jorge Alberto Cruz is a marketing expert with over 24 years of experience in traditional and digital marketing. He developed the i7 Formula and leverages AI to help business owners automate their marketing and sales processes.
Jorge is a passionate entrepreneur dedicated to marketing psychology and has helped hundreds of companies, including The Orlando Magic, Gatorade, Gulf Petroleum, and multiple medical offices, expand their message effectively.
He is also a Prospera Consultant, speaker, coach, and book co-author, focused on innovation, automation, and monetization.
Unlocking AI for Business Through Smart Growth
& AI Ethical Adoption
Discover how to harness the power of AI from Dr. Svetlana Bender, an expert in AI strategy and behavioral science, and Jorge Alberto Cruz, a marketing innovapreneur specializing in AI-driven automation, ensuring your business thrives while navigating challenges.
PANELISTS:
Svetlana Bender, PhD
Vice President, AI & Behavioral Science
Svetlana (Lana) Bender is the Vice President of AI & Behavioral Science at GuideWell and
Florida Blue, where she spearheads AI strategy, vision, and responsible AI adoption. A
recognized expert in Behavioral Economics, AI innovation, and the ethical integration of AI,
Lana brings a unique blend of academic rigor and industry expertise to drive business
transformation. She holds a doctorate in behavioral science from the University of Warwick and
has worked with global organizations such as UBS and Allianz Global Investors.
Jorge Alberto Cruz
Marketing InnovaPreneur
Jorge Alberto Cruz is a marketing expert with over 24 years of experience in traditional and digital marketing. He developed the i7 Formula and leverages AI to help business owners automate their marketing and sales processes.
Jorge is a passionate entrepreneur dedicated to marketing psychology and has helped hundreds of companies, including The Orlando Magic, Gatorade, Gulf Petroleum, and multiple medical offices, expand their message effectively.
He is also a Prospera Consultant, speaker, coach, and book co-author, focused on innovation, automation, and monetization.
Navigating Government resources
For Business Growth
This panel will explore essential Government related tools for business success, including procurement, zoning, and opportunities in Puerto Rico.
Horacio Maysonet
Co-Founder, President & CEO of Cyber Security Solutions Inc.
Co-Founder, President, and CEO of Cyber Security Solutions Inc., Florida's leading cybersecurity firm, specializes in innovative solutions for small to mid-size organizations. With over 10 years of experience, he co-created a "6-Step Process" used by U.S. Air Force Europe Command bases.
CSS focuses on cost-effective CMMC compliance for defense contractors, ensuring businesses are protected without high costs. His expertise includes entrepreneurship, strategic vision, and risk management.
MODERATOR:
Cecilia Figueroa
Founder & CEO
TWINS MEDIA CONNECT
Cecilia Figueroa is a highly experienced multimedia photojournalist with nearly two decades of experience in the fields of journalism, communications, and social media. She has worked with various media outlets across Florida, Puerto Rico, and several international destinations throughout her professional journey.
In her current capacity, Cecilia is making waves as the Director of Public Relations and Marketing for Cyber Security Solutions.
Register Now: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to expand your business.
Maribel Gomez Cordero
Maribel Gomez-Cordero was born and raised in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. She has been living in Central Florida for the past twenty-eight years. Maribel earned from Webster University a master’s degree, in Clinical Mental Health Counseling specializing in Family.
Maribel has received several recognitions for her dedication and service to the Orange County and Central Florida community. Since being elected in 2018, as Orange County Commissioner, one of her initiatives has been to help and assist small businesses, so they can be more familiar with the opportunities that the county offers for the small businesses and how they can be certified and become vendors, to be able to submit proposals.
Gomez-Cordero continues to work with families in the community as this has always been her passion, but not only does she do what she loves – she also inspires others to do the same.
Orange County District 4 Commissioner
Special Presentation
JUNTE BORICUA
Pedro Zorrilla
Chief Executive Officer, GFR Media
Pedro Zorrilla is an innovative leader with over 26 years of professional experience. Since 2021, he has been the CEO of GFR Media, overseeing business strategies for brands like El Nuevo Día and Primera Hora.
Pedro joined GFR Media in 2019 as CEO of eMotions. His career began in banking, later transitioning to the automotive industry. He founded Producciones TSHP in 2005 and Ventana Events in 2008.
From 2015 to 2021, Pedro was a professor at the University of Sagrado Corazón and directed sponsorships for Global Golf Management.
What You'll Learn
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