Trade shows, conferences, summits and exhibitions are a huge economic development driver.

This summer, the EDB will have boots on the ground at some noteworthy events where they will connect, network, share and glean the latest:

• • 2024 International Economic Development Council Economic Future Forum, June 16-18, Spokane, Washington. When the world’s largest gathering of economic development professionals convenes in Washington state for the first time, EDB Vice President of Business Development Tamsin Bell will be there. This year’s event will explore “Transformational Economic Development” and celebrate the 50^th anniversary of Expo ’74, Spokane’s community-changing World’s Fair event.
  • Washington Economic Development Association (WEDA) Summer Conference, June 18-20, Spokane, Washington. EDB CEO Bruce Kendall will join fellow economic development professionals and other leaders from across the state to explore “Sprinting Towards a More Equitable Future.” WEDA conference attendees can expect a content-rich and engaging event, featuring a dynamic and diverse slate of speakers. The event directly follows the IEDC conference in Spokane.
  • SelectUSA Investment Summit Spinoff Event, June 20. Just ahead of the 2024 SelectUSA Investment Summit in Maryland, the EDB will host a day-long spinoff event in Tacoma to showcase opportunities in the South Sound. Nearly 30 companies from 9 countries will be handpicked for their readiness and capacity to invest in our region.
  • SelectUSA Investment Summit, June 23-26, National Harbor, Maryland. EDB Vice President for Business Recruitment Sarah Bonds will once again represent Tacoma-Pierce County at the highest profile event in the nation to facilitate business investment. This one-stop shop for companies looking to expand in the U.S. provides economic development organizations the opportunity to meet directly with international companies to facilitate investment deals.
  • Farnborough International Airshow, July 22-26, Farnborough, UK. This major trade exposition for the aerospace, aviation and defense industries is held every two years and alternates with the Paris Air Show. This year, the EDB will join other Washington state partners to meet with industry leaders, connect with new and existing contacts, and showcase the region’s assets and advantages. The Pierce County delegation includes Bruce Kendall and Sarah Bonds, Pierce County Economic Development Director Betty Capestany, Eatonville Mayor David Baublits, and Pierce County Councilmember Dave Morell.

Watch for event recaps in future issues of Onward.