On Thursday, Dec. 7, the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023 will be held at the Great Wolf Lodge — located at 20500 Old Highway 99 SW in Centralia — according to a Thurston Economic Development Council (TEDC) and Center for Business & Innovation news release.
Open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the expo’s theme this year is “building regional economic prosperity.” It will focus on the workforce and showcase the economic impact the local Tribal Nations have on the region’s economy.
Along with TEDC, four other economic development organizations from Lewis, Mason, Grays Harbor and Pacific counties are helping host the expo. The expo will also feature local food and craft beverage samplings for attendees to enjoy.
“Attendees can look forward to in-depth discussions and valuable insights into a wide range of pressing issues affecting our business communities, including infrastructure, energy, artificial intelligence, the creative economy and more,” the release stated. “Business and community leaders will gain insights into critical and emerging trends and will be provided with information to guide their business models and action plans.”
Additionally, the expo will emphasize the integration of diversity, equity and inclusion into the themes and innovations showcased.
Keynote speakers for the expo will be Hart Hodges and James McCafferty from Western Washington University’s College of Business and Economics.
An economic leaders development panel will also be held, featuring the directors of the Economic Alliance of Lewis County, Greater Grays Harbor Inc., the Economic Development Council of Mason County, the Pacific County Economic Development Council and the TEDC.
Breakout discussion sessions will also be held to help tackle pressing issues and opportunities within the five counties involved.
“Our focal points encompass a comprehensive examination of infrastructure and energy requirements, the ever-expanding role of the creative economy, and the transformative influence of artificial intelligence on our regional business landscape … Join us in shaping the future we all aspire to experience,” the release stated.
Registration for the expo is currently open online, with general admission tickets starting at $100. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://thurstonedc.com/regional-economic-forecast-innovation-expo/.
