Registration is now open for the 2026 Wisconsin Economic Summit.

2026 Wisconsin Economic Summit

Determination to Dream

Sept. 30 – Oct. 1 · The Pablo Center · Eau Claire

The Pablo Center along the waterfront in Eau Claire

Two Days. One Defining Question.

How does Wisconsin continue to grow, invest, and lead in an economy that refuses to stand still?

In many ways, Wisconsin’s economy is taking on a K-shaped trajectory—where some industries, communities, and businesses are accelerating forward while others face growing headwinds. Navigating that divide requires both resilience and vision. The Wisconsin Economic Summit brings together economic developers, business leaders, policymakers, educators, and innovators from across the state to examine the forces shaping our future and identify opportunities for shared growth. Through candid conversations and forward-looking insights, attendees will explore how Wisconsin can strengthen its competitive advantages, invest in talent and innovation, and create a more prosperous economy that benefits every region and community

George Packer

Day 1 Keynote Speaker

George Packer

Nationally recognized author and staff writer for The Atlantic

Exploring the social, economic, and cultural forces shaping America and what they mean for leaders navigating uncertainty.

The last few years have exposed America’s glaring inequalities like never before. In this deeply divided moment, is there anything that can bring us together? George Packer says yes. Read his complete bio…

Who Attends

Wisconsin Economic Summit audience listening to panel discussion.

Join Leaders From Across Wisconsin

  • Economic development organizations
  • Chambers of commerce
  • Municipal and county leaders
  • Business executives
  • Workforce development professionals
  • Investors and entrepreneurs
  • Higher education leaders
  • State policymakers

What to Expect

Shayna Hetzel participating in a panel discussion at the Wisconsin Economic Summit.

Day 1: Understanding the Moment

The summit opens with a clear-eyed look at today’s economic environment—one defined by disruption, uneven growth, and constant change.

Through keynote insights, breakout sessions, and candid conversations, you’ll explore:

  • Workforce challenges and opportunity gaps
  • What entering today’s economy really looks like
  • The role of communities in enabling growth
  • How leaders are adapting and continuing to invest

Key programming highlights:

  • Opening keynote: 10:30–11:15 a.m.
  • Breakout sessions: 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. and 2:30–3:30 p.m.
  • General session: 3:50–4:30 p.m.
  • Closing session: 4:30–5 p.m.
  • Networking reception: 5:15–8:15 p.m.
Woman asking a question during breakout session at Wisconsin Economic Summit.

Day 2: Building What’s Next

Day 2 shifts from analysis to action—spotlighting where Wisconsin is already making bold, strategic bets on the future.

You’ll hear from innovators, investors, and builders driving growth across sectors like:

  • Energy and infrastructure
  • Healthcare and biohealth
  • Entrepreneurship and place-based development

Key programming highlights:

  • Breakfast & networking: 7:30–8:30 a.m.
  • Opening Plenary: 8:30–9:40 a.m.
  • Breakout sessions: 9:50–10:50 a.m.
  • Closing keynote: 11:10–12:15 p.m.
 
Sept. 30 - Oct 1, 2026 2026 Wisconsin Economic Summit
The Pablo Center · Eau Claire
 

Reserve your hotel today!

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Eau Claire
1111 Menomonie St
Eau Claire, WI 54703

$149/night
Discount deadline: Aug. 30, 2026

Staybridge Suites Eau Claire
1515 Bluestem Blvd
Altoona, WI 54720

$130 – $150/night
Discount deadline: Aug. 30, 2026

2025 Recap

As we look ahead to this year’s summit, revisit blogs and videos from 2025 where business and industry leaders, economic development and professionals, and government representatives gathered to explore unlocking new community investments.

“I think we’ve had a lot of great speakers bringing different perspectives. I loved the panel with the young professionals that were sharing their thoughts about the future—some of their concerns and some of their hopes and aspirations.”

Rebecca Deschane

Vice President of Talent Development, New North Inc.

“It’s an opportunity to interact with people from different sectors—not just government folks, not just economic development folks—and talk about what it is we’re all trying to do hear which is keeping the economy growing in the state of Wisconsin.”

Tim Casey

Director of City Development, City of Kenosha

“It really is about learning who your resources are, really getting connected to the people, and it’s all about collaboration. So what one community is doing could impact another community, and just having that networking time is very important.”

Angie Close

Executive Director, Langlade County Economic Development Corporation

Keep me informed

Stay informed with the latest updates on the Wisconsin Economic Summit.