| Phoenix Positions Itself at the Center of Global Innovation at 2026 Global Links Business Luncheon | https://www.investinphoenix.com/news/71 | Phoenix Positions Itself at the Center of Global Innovation at 2026 Global Links Business Luncheon | <div class="ExternalClass28FE8F1FCC374978A5C12AB82732D22A"><p>PHOENIX, Ariz. - Mayor Kate Gallego and <a href="https://phoenixsistercities.org/event/2026-global-links/" target="_blank">Phoenix Sister Cities present the 2026 Global Links Business Luncheon</a> on Thursday, February 19 at The Abbey on Monroe in Downtown Phoenix, 302 W. Monroe St. The event brings together regional business leaders, innovators, and civic partners to examine emerging global business trends and ways Phoenix can compete for investment, talent, and growth. <br></p><p>Global Links is a signature Phoenix Sister Cities event designed to strengthen international collaboration and advance the City’s presence in global commerce. <br></p><p><strong>FEATURED SPEAKERS</strong><br>Following a standout joint appearance at the 2025 Phoenix Global Forum, Dan Hart and Matt Cimaglia return to expand the conversation about how business leaders can connect the space economy and quantum technology to real-world competitiveness.</p><p><strong>Dan Hart, President, HarTechnologies</strong><br>Dan Hart leads HarTechnologies, where he advises technology companies and investors on strategy and execution across commercial and government markets. He is a longtime aerospace leader who previously served as CEO of Virgin Orbit and spent more than three decades at Boeing, including as Vice President of Government Satellite Systems. Hart is a member of the National Academy of Engineering, a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, and serves on the National Academies Space Studies Board. He is known for leading complex space programs and translating technical innovation into clear strategy and effective execution. </p><p><strong>Matthew Cimaglia, Founder & Managing Partner, Quantum Coast Capit</strong><strong>al</strong><br>Matt Cimaglia leads Quantum Coast Capital, where he invests in early-stage quantum companies with an emphasis on practical advancement across hardware, software, and sensing. A serial entrepreneur and technology advocate, he previously founded Third Summit (parent company of Alteon.io) and built and exited a media business he launched at age 20. Cimaglia serves on the board of the Boca Raton Center for Arts & Innovation, and is known for making quantum computing more accessible and actionable for business leaders and investors.</p><p><strong>Mayor Kate Gallego, City of Phoenix (Special Presentation)</strong><br>Mayor Gallego will present Phoenix’s 2026 Business Awards during the luncheon, recognizing local companies and leaders driving job creation, innovation, and Phoenix’s global competitiveness in advanced industries. </p><p><strong>What Attendees Will Gain</strong><br></p><ul><li><p>Timely insights on global business trends shaping Phoenix’s economy, including emerging opportunities in the space economy and quantum innovation. </p></li><li><p>Meaningful networking with regional executives, investors, and civic leaders focused on international partnerships and growth. </p></li><li><p>A closer look at Phoenix companies and leaders advancing innovation and global engagement.<br></p></li></ul><p><strong>Event Details</strong></p><p><em>What:</em> 2026 Global Links Business Luncheon</p><p><em>When:</em> Thursday, February 19, 2026, 11:30 a.m. – 1p.m. </p><p><em>Where:</em> The Abbey on Monroe, 302 W. Monroe St.</p><p><em>Tickets:</em> General Admission ($125); Young Professionals under age 35 ($85). Purchase at <a href="https://phoenixsistercities.org/event/2026-global-links/" target="_blank">PhoenixSisterCities.org</a> </p><p><em>Sponsorship Opportunities:</em> Contact Joseph MacEwan, President/CEO of Phoenix Sister Cities: <a href="mailto:joseph.macewan@phoenix.gov">Joseph.MacEwan@phoenix.gov</a></p><p><strong>About Phoenix Sister Cities</strong><br>Phoenix Sister Cities is a nonprofit organization advancing Phoenix’s international friendship and global engagement through cultural, educational, and business exchanges. The Global Links Business Luncheon highlights the role of global partnerships in driving local economic growth and innovation. <br></p><p><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br>Athena Sanchez, Senior Public Information Officer<br>Phoenix Community and Economic Development Department<br>602-621-0507 (call/text)<br><a href="mailto:Athena.Sanchez@phoenix.gov">Athena.Sanchez@phoenix.gov</a></p></div> | Global Links luncheon from 2025 | | https://www.investinphoenix.com/Lists/News/Attachments/71/Mayor remarks.jpg | 1/5/2026 3:58:02 PM |
