When the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Future Forum convened in Spokane June 16-18, it marked the first time that the prestigious conference was held in the Pacific Northwest.

It was only fitting that the theme of this years’ gathering of the world’s most innovative and influential economic development professionals was “Transformational Economic Development.” This summer marked the 50^th anniversary of the 1974 World’s Fair held in downtown Spokane’s Riverfront Park. The conference spotlighted the economic impact of the ’74 Expo and how it continues today.

Creating change, strengthening communities

The IEDC conference offers the opportunity to explore emerging industry, discuss cutting-edge technology and applications, and showcase innovative strategies to foster transformational economic development. This year’s event focused on AI, clean tech, climate action, entrepreneurship and the creative economy – and the EDB was in the thick of it.

EDB Vice President for Business Development Tamsin Bell led a session on how creative economy entrepreneurs play a transformative role in shaping the cultural essence of a community by infusing it with energy and securing its economic resilience. During her presentation, Bell showcased the South Sound’s entrepreneurial ecosystem work, and explored cutting-edge trends and out-of-the-box strategies to uplift local artists and foster a thriving cultural ecosystem in your community and beyond.

Bell wasn’t the only one representing the 253. Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU) Economic Development Manager Michael Catsi led a breakout session on how the rise of the clean energy sector sparks job creation and fosters collaborative economic development within local communities.

A big takeaway

EDB CEO Bruce Kendall also attended the Future Forum and offered a huge takeaway gleaned from remarks made by IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle.

“Ohle emphasized becoming relevant to previously under-represented members, including those on the West Coast and rural areas,” Kendall said. “That’s us!”

Ohle also presented the recently unveiled IEDC Strategic Plan, which Kendall notes is worth reading.

Why it matters

Taking part in events like the IEDC Future Forum are critical to the EDB’s mission.

“Attending the Forum raises our region’s profile as leaders in sustainable, equitable economic and community development,” Bell said. “It also provides the opportunity to network, share ideas and bring back best practices from other innovators within the IEDC network.”