Interoffice Memorandum
DATE: January 21, 2026
TO: Mayor Jerry L. Demings and County Commissioners
THROUGH: N/A
FROM: Alissa Barber Torres, Phd, FAICP, CLTD, Chief Innovation and Emerging Technologies Officer
CONTACT: Jessica Kinkle, Administrative Assistant
PHONE: 407-836-7366
DIVISION: Office of Innovation and Emerging Technologies
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST). FY 2026 Grant Agreement and authorization to disburse $72,141. (Office of Innovation and Emerging Technologies)
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PROJECT: N/A
PURPOSE: The County has determined that there is a public interest for such activities/programs in order to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers in Central Florida through education programs, events and other activities inspiring Orange county’s community youth to pursue high wage job opportunities. Funding will be used to support FIRST’s operations, which consist of experienced, highly skilled programs and event managers to support precollegiate STEM education.
BUDGET: $72,141