Leaders throughout our state—economic development professionals and academics as well as business and industry leaders—are coming together to look forward to Wisconsin’s future economy in the first-ever statewide economic summit, taking place Sept. 20-21 in Appleton.
Organized by WEDC, the two-day Wisconsin Economic Summit will explore opportunities to foster strong businesses and thriving communities, support and expand our workforce, and empower the next generation of Wisconsin thinkers and creators. Through a combination of engaging presentations, interactive discussions and networking opportunities, attendees are invited to join the conversation.
“WEDC’s mission is to help each Wisconsin resident achieve economic well-being, however they define it,” says WEDC Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes. “We know that healthy economies and thriving communities are about much more than creating jobs. It’s about creating opportunities for learning and career growth, having safe and affordable places to live, having a clean environment to enjoy, and really creating the kinds of communities where everyone wants to live.”
Keynote speaker Rebecca Ryan, a noted top 50 professional futurist, economist, bestselling author and entrepreneur
As its keynote speaker, the event will feature Rebecca Ryan, a noted top 50 professional futurist, economist, bestselling author and entrepreneur. Ryan is the founder of NEXT Generation Consulting, through with she partners with government leaders across the country. Looking a generation ahead, she outlines strategies in urban planning, economic development and workforce development to ensure that communities are well equipped for future trends and challenges.
The conference agenda also includes:
- A report on Wisconsin’s Economy Today from economist John Koskinen
- Conversation with WEDC’s Wisconsin Ambassadors exploring why they believe our state is ideal for building businesses, growing careers and leading a fulfilling and rewarding life
- Celebration of the successes of a wide range of Wisconsin businesses that have overcome adversity to find success in challenging times
- A night on the town to explore Appleton’s thriving music scene
- Focused conversations sharing ideas and inspiration in the critical areas of workforce, clean energy and sustainability, and business competitiveness and automation
The cost of attendance is $50 per person and includes lunch and dinner on the first day of the event, as well as breakfast and an optional lunch on the second day.
