The Florida Chamber of Commerce has finalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during a CEO delegation trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This MOU was signed at the AIM Congress 2025, a prominent platform for international investment, by Katie Yeutter, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and His Excellency Khaled Al Fahim, a board member of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce.
The agreement, part of the 2025 Florida CEO Delegation Trip, is aimed at bolstering international relations and creating new business opportunities for companies in Florida. Hosting the ceremony at the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s private majlis underscores both chambers’ dedication to forging durable economic partnerships.
Leading the delegation are Keith Koenig, Chairman of CITY Furniture and Chair of the Florida Chamber; Matt Higgins, co-founder and CEO of RSE Ventures; and Katie Yeutter, who represented the Chamber in signing the MOU. The delegation includes Karen Moore, CEO of Moore, and Florida Chamber’s board member, alongside a group of CEOs and founders from key sectors of Florida’s economy.
In a statement, Katie Yeutter remarked, “This agreement represents a significant step in positioning Florida as a global hub for trade and innovation. It reflects the leadership and unity of Florida’s business community, and our commitment to the Florida 2030 Blueprint—which outlines our goal of becoming a top 10 global economy.”
Keith Koenig added, “The global economy doesn’t wait—and neither should Florida. We’re here to build lasting relationships that support growth, innovation, and opportunity for Florida’s future.”
Representing advanced manufacturing, logistics, infrastructure, aerospace, and investment sectors, the delegation is focused on fostering innovation and relationships. The trip was initiated by Matt Higgins, who urged the Florida Chamber Board to envision bold new initiatives two years prior. His proposition to proactively seek opportunities has shaped the mission to fulfill the Florida 2030 Blueprint.
During their stay, Florida’s business leaders will meet UAE officials, visit innovation hubs such as Hub71 and Masdar City, and explore smart technologies and entrepreneurship. Their agenda includes discussions on smart manufacturing and AI, as well as cultural visits to enhance cross-cultural relations.
This initiative aligns with the Florida Chamber’s goal of reinforcing Florida’s economic status by expanding global influence and reaching ambitious benchmarks in startups, manufacturing, and tech jobs, as outlined in the Florida 2030 Blueprint. Florida Trend, a leading state business publication, is accompanying the delegation and will provide coverage later this year.
