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[Your Name] [Your Email] [Your Organization] [Your Phone Number]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:[date]

Unlocking the Future: Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2024

[Your County}, WA –Mark your calendar for December 5, 2024, as industry leaders, economic experts, and community representatives from across five counties (Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston) converge at the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo at Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound. This full-day event promises to be a transformative experience designed to address the current economic landscape and inspire bold, innovative strategies to propel regional growth.

Why This Event Matters
In today’s rapidly evolving economic climate, collaboration and innovation are no longer just buzzwords—they are essential to success. The Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo is your gateway to new partnerships, fresh ideas, and actionable insights. By bringing together thought leaders, this event provides a rare opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, influence critical decisions, and contribute to shaping policies that affect businesses, industries, and communities.

Regional College Panel: Driving Innovative Workforce Development for Future Economies
Regional college leaders will highlight the synergy between educational institutions and industries, revealing how these partnerships are revolutionizing workforce development to meet the demands of tomorrow’s economy.

Tribal Nations Economic Impact
Learn about the profound economic contributions and future strategies of regional tribal nations and discover how they are reshaping the economic landscape.

Opening Up Global Markets Locally
Explore how local businesses can access world markets through cutting-edge economic development systems.

Innovating the Creative Economy with ArtsWA
Delve into how Washington State’s arts and cultural sectors drive economic innovation and contribute to long-term growth.

In addition to these key panels, breakout sessions will cover crucial topics, including International Economic Development, STEM and our economy, and strategies for accessing funding to fuel new economic sectors.

Networking & Strategic Collaborations
In addition to learning, this event is also about making connections that matter. With exclusive networking opportunities during breakfast and lunch, including the return of our popular “Regional Tastes and Treats” experience, attendees can sample local flavors while forging strategic partnerships that lead to tangible results.

Join Us
Registration is now open—secure your spot today. For more information and to register, visit thurstonedc.com/regional-economic-forecast-innovation-expo/.

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact our Events & Communications Manager, Holly House, at [email protected]

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SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT

At this year’s Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo, gain exclusive insights from the executives of our region’s five economic development organizations as they discuss their collaborative vision for building a robust economy across the Pacific Northwest.
Hear from these dynamic leaders on how their unique strategies complement one another, creating a powerful, unified approach to economic growth and prosperity in our communities. This panel promises invaluable insights for business leaders and decision-makers eager to understand and contribute to a vibrant future for our region.
Panelists:
✨ Darrin Raines – Greater Grays Harbor, Inc.
✨ Susan Yirku – Pacific County Economic Development Council
✨ Michael Cade – Thurston Economic Development Council
Moderated by Jeff Slakey
Who remembers Michael Cruz’s mind-blowing AI presentation at last year’s EXPO? We were there, and let’s just say—inspired doesn’t even begin to cover it. Guess what? He’s coming back!
This year, Michael will dive into how AI has evolved over the past year. Think Co-Pilot, ChatGPT, Gemini, and more—live demos included! Ready to level up your professional toolkit?
Date: December 5, 2024
Time: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: Great Wolf Lodge | Grand Mound
Cost: $100
Join 350+ decision-makers, innovators, and leaders from across the region for this must-attend networking event. Don’t wait—grab your ticket now! 🎟️
Join us on the Main Stage at this year’s Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo to hear from the presidents of our region’s leading colleges as they dive into innovative workforce development strategies designed to meet today’s business challenges head-on!
This year’s focus: How regional colleges are equipping the workforce of tomorrow to thrive in emerging sectors, navigate workforce shifts, and harness the potential of AI—all while ensuring diversity and inclusivity in an evolving economy.
Mark your calendars, and don’t miss this impactful session! Tickets here: https://bit.ly/4eWrG32
EDC of Pacific County
How does the creative sector impact our local economy? Do you have a plan to nurture your community’s creative assets? Curious about best practices for weaving creativity into economic strategies?
Join us at the Regional Economic Forecast and Innovation Expo on December 5 to hear insights from Annette Roth, Community Development Manager with the Washington State Arts Commission. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and innovate!
Join Us for the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo!
December 5, 2024, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm, Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, Grand Mound
This powerhouse networking event draws over 350 decision-makers, community leaders, and innovators from Thurston, Mason, Grays Harbor, Lewis, and Pacific counties—and beyond!
Session Spotlight:
Learn how local businesses can thrive through government contracting and gain insights into securing funding for cutting-edge technology research and development.
Register now to secure your spot! https://bit.ly/4eWrG32
Breakout Session Spotlight: The Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone Initiative
Join us at The Regional Economic Forecast and Innovation Expo to explore the Bioeconomy Development Opportunity (BDO) Zone Initiative—a program that certifies regional readiness for bio-based manufacturing, connects communities globally with project developers, and sparks clean energy opportunities across sectors.
Event Details:
Date: December 5, 2024
Time: 7:00 am – 3:30 pm
Location: Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Grand Mound, Centralia, WA
Cost: $100
Be part of this dynamic networking event with 350+ regional leaders and innovators, all converging to shape the future of sustainable industry in Thurston, Mason, Grays Harbor, Lewis, and Pacific counties.
Buy tickets at the link in our bio.

EXPO LOGO