Economic development leaders from across the globe will convene next week in Phoenix, Arizona for the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) 2024 Leadership Summit. The profession’s foremost conference for industry leaders will feature distinct learning tracks including:

  • Infrastructure, Innovation, and Industry
    By championing innovative, sustainable technologies and ensuring equal and universal access to information and financial markets, economic developers can pave the way for prosperity, job creation, and stable, prosperous societies around the globe.
  • Foreign Direct Investment
    The aftermath of the pandemic has expedited the decoupling of global value chains, while the increasing reliance on technology has brought to light the significant digital divide in many communities.
  • Partnerships and Collaboration
    Partnerships and collaborations are the cornerstones of a resilient future. They serve as an essential imperative to unite a diverse range of stakeholders, such as local and national governing bodies, non-profit organizations, academia, and private sector organizations in pursuit of a shared mission and common goal.
  • Leadership Development
    Effective leadership is the cornerstone of progress, innovation, and sustainable growth. With globalization and the ever-changing business landscape, investing in leaders’ development is increasingly important to ensure a robust pipeline of talent who can navigate dynamic challenges and drive positive change.

As part of the Infrastructure, Innovation, and Industry track, CVEP’s vice president of innovation, Laura James, will be a featured speaker. In addition to James, the Entrepreneurship Storytelling session will also feature economic development leaders from Arizona, Seattle, Missouri, and Montana; speakers will share their experiences with building entrepreneurial ecosystems. James will draw on her years of experience forging connections between startup companies, mentors, funders, and others, particularly focusing on the portfolio companies within the Palm Springs iHub.

Visit the IEDC 2024 Leadership Summit website to view all conference sessions or to view registration options.