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Overview

The Southern Florida Digital Government Summit is an event that brings together public sector leaders and technology professionals to explore innovative solutions to solve government problems. Key themes include cybersecurity, digital transformation, AI implementation, data governance, and fostering collaboration across multiple stakeholders. Attendees will benefit from expert discussions, peer networking, and insights into the future of government technology. Join us and let’s improve the future of government together!

A message from our Keynote Speaker

Speakers

Jessica O. Matthews

Jessica O. Matthews

CEO of Uncharted, Innovator and Social Entrepreneur, Trailblazing Energy Advocate

Founded award-winning power and data infrastructure tech company credited with inventing an energy generating soccer ball and revolutionizing vision AI in energy efficiency
Mission-driven leader who values positive social impact and inspires audience to use innovation and technology to meet everyday needs
Recognized as Fortune’s Most Promising Women Entrepreneurs, 30 Under 30 list for Forbes and Inc., and Scientist of the Year by Harvard University
Powerhouse speaker dedicated to using technology to change the world
Innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility have always been intrinsic to Jessica O. Matthews, even from a young age. At just 19, she invented SOCCKET, an energy-generating soccer ball that reflects her vision for a better world. Matthews was inspired by her experiences in Nigeria, when she noticed the reliance on dangerous diesel generators during power outages. She addressed a community need and created a safer alternative that harnesses power from an everyday activity to provide a source of light.
Her invention of SOCCKET exemplifies Matthews’ unique blend of altruism and a disruptive technological mindset that encourages her audience to embrace innovation and actively contribute to positive change. She channeled these qualities into founding Uncharted, an award-winning sustainable-infrastructure company that empowers small and under-resourced cities. As CEO, she takes her social responsibility seriously, creating solutions that enhance access to energy, water, air, and transit. Notably, Matthews has revolutionized vision AI in energy efficiency, developing technology that employs “smart photos” to visually assess homes. These photos then determine potential savings on energy bills and qualifying rebates. Matthews is committed to preserving the unique identities of the cities she serves, asserting that citizens shouldn’t have to "leave where they are from to get where they are going".
Exclusively represented by Leading Authorities speakers bureau, Jessica O. Matthews captivates audiences with her engaging presentation style. A relatable, down-to-earth speaker, she refers to herself as a “blend of Beyoncé and Bill Nye the Science Guy.” Her enthusiasm engages audiences, and she often jumps rope on stage to demonstrate her innovations in an interactive way. This personable approach allows her to connect deeply with her audience, fostering an honest dialogue about the challenges and opportunities in innovation. Matthews leaves audiences feeling inspired and motivated to create solutions that disrupt the status quo and encourages them to meet the needs of real people and communities. Her ability to tailor her message to resonate with the unique interests and experiences of each audience ensures that her insights are both relevant and impactful.
Jessica’s success in entrepreneurship led to a White House invitation from President Barack Obama to represent small companies for the signing of the America Invents Act in 2012. In 2016, she raised what was at the time the largest Series A round ever raised by a black female founder in history and was selected to ring the NASDAQ opening ceremony bell, representing all Forbes 30 Under 30 alumni. In 2021, Jessica was officially appointed by Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm to the Electricity Advisory Committee. As a member of the Smart Grid subcommittee, she plays a key role in advising the Department of Energy on the ways we can modernize our nation’s electric delivery system, specifically focusing on accelerating the deployment of electric vehicle charging stations throughout the U.S.
A dual citizen of Nigeria and the United States, Jessica has a degree in psychology and economics from Harvard University, an MBA from Harvard Business School, and is listed on over 12 patents and patents pending. Her list of accolades includes Fortune’s Most Promising Women Entrepreneurs, Forbes 30 Under 30, Inc. Magazine 30 Under 30 and Female Founders 100, Harvard University Scientist of the Year, One Young World Entrepreneur of the Year, the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award, and Black Women Tech Talk’s Tech Trailblazer Award. She has appeared on the cover of Forbes and Forbes Africa, as well as featured in Marie Claire, Wired, Inc., TechCrunch, The New York Times, and Fast Company, among others.

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Agenda

Monday, December 15

8:30 am Eastern

Registration and Morning Refreshments in the Exhibit Area

9:30 am Eastern

Opening Remarks

9:45 am Eastern

Find Your Fight: Innovating When the Odds Are Against You

In moments when challenges feel insurmountable, and the odds are stacked against us, how do we find the will to fight—and win? In this powerful and energizing talk, Jessica O. Matthews shares how the most groundbreaking innovations often emerge from struggle, uncertainty, and adversity. Drawing from her own journey as a pioneering entrepreneur and inventor, Jessica explores how resilience, creativity, and relentless problem-solving can transform even the toughest setbacks into opportunities for impact and growth. This session will help you reframe challenges as opportunities for breakthrough innovation, develop resilience during moments of struggle, and uncover determination to keep fighting for transformative solutions.

Jessica O. Matthews, CEO of Uncharted, Innovator and Social Entrepreneur, Trailblazing Energy Advocate

10:45 am Eastern

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

11:15 am Eastern

Lightning Round Sessions

Strategies to Unify Data for Smarter AI

AI is only as powerful as the data that fuels it, making data the true foundation of every AI initiative. For governments, this means that data quality, governance, and accessibility directly shape the success of AI-driven services. This session will explore how treating data as AI unlocks smarter insights, better decisions, and more responsive public services.

11:50 am Eastern

Protecting Your Network Together – How Emerging Tech Is Changing the Industry

In today’s threat landscape, cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility, and awareness is the first line of defense. This session will cover best practices for protecting your network, from proven strategies to practical steps agencies can implement right away. Attendees will also hear real stories from the edge, offering lessons learned and insights to strengthen resilience against evolving cyber threats.

12:30 pm Eastern

Lunch Buffet and Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

1:30 pm Eastern

Lightning Round Sessions

Workforce Agility in a Digital Future

Emerging technologies like AI are reshaping the IT workforce, demanding new skills, roles, and approaches to service delivery. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities to modernize teams, invest in talent, and reimagine how technology supports communities. This session explores strategies for workforce transformation, upskilling, and leadership to ensure agencies stay agile and future-ready in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

1:30 pm Eastern

Executive Briefing with Sponsors and Leaders

2:00 pm Eastern

The Realities of Implementing Innovation – Real-Life Use Cases

Implementing new technologies in the public sector comes with successes, challenges, and hard lessons—the good, the bad, and the ugly. This session will highlight how to design effective pilots, with a realistic view of what emerging technology can and cannot do for an organization. We’ll also explore how to set clear requirements, embrace innovation, and take the right risks without exposing your agency to unnecessary ones.

2:45 pm Eastern

Networking Break in the Exhibit Area

3:05 pm Eastern

Technology That Serves Everyone – Impact of AI on the People

Emerging technologies like AI are reshaping how governments serve their communities—offering new ways to address challenges, strengthen resilience, and promote equity. In this interactive session, participants will explore how to responsibly govern and deploy AI for social good, from smarter infrastructure to more connected public services. Bring your ideas and join fellow regional leaders for a hands-on brainstorming session focused on collaboration, policy, and innovation for a better future.

3:45 pm Eastern

Networking Reception in the Exhibit Area

Network with your colleagues and discuss technology solutions with the event exhibitors.

4:15 pm Eastern

End of Conference

Conference times, agenda, and speakers are subject to change.

Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina

1881 SE 17th Street Causeway
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 463-4000

Get Directions To
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina

Advisory Board

Government Representatives

Erica Alvarez
IT Community Engagement Manager
Miami-Dade County

Yaniel Corrales
IT Service Manager
City of Homestead

Cheriene Floyd
Chief Data Officer
City of Miami

Carrie Mast
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology
St Lucie County

Tameka McKay
Chief Information Officer
Information Technology Department
Seminole Tribe of Florida

Ana Peralta Chammas
County Innovation Director
Information Technology
Miami-Dade County

Frank Quintana
Chief Information Officer (CIO)
Information Technology
City of Miami Beach

Raimundo Rodulfo
Director of Innovation and Technology / Chief Innovation Officer
Information Technology
City of Coral Gables

Archie Satchell
Chief Information Officer
Palm Beach County

Jorge Velens
IT Innovation Manager
Information Technology
Miami-Dade County

Industry Representatives

Alex Haber
Public Sector Sales Leader
Schneider Electric IT Corp

Jim Lawson
Product Marketing Practice Leader
Product
Portage CyberTech

Chris VanDurmen
Senior Client Partner-Public Sector
Verizon

Registration Information / Contact Us

Event Date: December 15, 2025

Open to Public Sector only.

Registration - Free

If you represent a Private Sector organization and are interested in Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact Heather Earney.

This event is open to all individuals who meet the eligibility criteria, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, age, disability, or any other protected class. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants.

Contact Information

Need help registering, or have general event questions? Contact:

Audrey Houser
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 932-1420
E-mail: ahouser@erepublic.com

Already a sponsor, but need a hand? Reach out to:

Mireya Gaton
Government Technology
Phone:(916) 296-2617
E-Mail: mgaton@erepublic.com

Want to sponsor and stand out? Reach out to explore opportunities!

Heather Earney
Government Technology
Phone: (916) 365-2308
E-mail: heather.earney@erepublic.com

Venue

Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina

1881 SE 17th Street Causeway
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 463-4000

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Room Block

Room Rate: $149 plus taxes and resort fees
Rate Cut-Off Date: Friday, November 14, 2025
To Make a Reservation:
Phone: 1 (888) 554-2129 and reference Southern Florida Digital Government Summit
Online: Group Reservation Link
If you experience issues booking online, call the hotel directly for assistance.

Rooms are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note, once the room block is full, you will need to make other arrangements for your accommodations with the hotel directly or at a nearby hotel