Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater will host the 2012 Small-Business Leadership Forum, in partnership with The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship, at Florida State University in Tampa on Sept. 6-7.

The forum, to be held at the Westin Harbour Island Hotel, brings together business leaders, investors, and academic and industry experts.

“Diversifying our economy is necessary for long-term prosperity. It is equally vital that the backbone of our economy -- 2.2 million small businesses in our state -- continue to grow, prosper and remain in Florida,” Atwater stated in a release.

“While we continue to see positive trends in business and employment growth, I know we can do more to assist small businesses already established in our state. The forum aims to connect business owners with the right tools and information to help them succeed during Florida’s economic recovery.”

For information, visit www.FLSmallBusinessForum.com.