2025 November Economic Report

The Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo is presented in partnership with the five economic development organizations of the Pacific Mountain Workforce Region:

• Greater Grays Harbor Inc.
• Economic Alliance of Lewis County
• Mason County Economic Development Council
• Pacific County Economic Development Council
• Thurston Economic Development Council & Center for Business Innovation

Now in its 17th year, this premier networking event draws more than 500 influential leaders from Thurston, Mason, Grays Harbor, Lewis, and Pacific counties — along with participants from throughout the region. Attendees include key decision-makers, innovators, and thought leaders across business, nonprofit, education, and public sectors.

“I’m excited to speak at the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation EXPO on Dec. 4,” said Economic Alliance of Lewis County External Relations Manager Eric Sonnenberg. “Join us as we dive into data-driven retail strategies, leakage analysis, and tools that help communities strengthen their downtowns and attract the right businesses.

The conference offers dynamic opportunities to connect with peers, explore cutting-edge technologies and innovations from leading exhibitors, participate in breakout sessions, and gain valuable insights through a forward-looking regional economic forecast.

Participants will be presented with solutions and strategies that they can use in the planning and operation of their business, and to build a strong resilient and inclusive community.

Breakout sessions

Breakout sessions at the Economic Forecast and Innovation EXPO will dive into the most pressing challenges and promising opportunities across our five-county region.

Additional sessions will explore the impact of policy on small business success, and how access to timely, high-quality data can be a game-changer for regional decision-making. Other critical topics include tourism, Bio Diversity Zones, and a Rural Recap from the Future of Rural pre-Conference.

Led by regional leaders who are actively driving progress, these sessions promise to be engaging, enlightening — and yes, even fun.

Agenda

Exhibitor Set-Up Information Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation EXPO Set-up begins at 6:30 a.m. on Dec. 4. Each exhibitor space includes: One 8-foot table with tablecloth Two chairs Electrical access available upon request (please notify in advance) If you require additional set-up time or have special needs for your display, please reach out to Holly House at [email protected] to make arrangements. We look forward to supporting a smooth and successful experience for you at the EXPO!

6:30 to 7:30 a.m. • Main Hall

Registration & Exhibitor Hall Open

Kick off your EXPO experience at Registration. Grab your badge, and start making valuable connections. Explore a dynamic showcase of businesses, agencies, and innovators from across the South Puget Sound region—all ready to share tools, opportunities, and solutions that support community and economic growth. Whether you’re looking to spark new partnerships, discover the latest resources, or simply get oriented before sessions begin, this is the perfect time to network, ask questions, and connect with our exhibitors. Start the day with energy, ideas, and the relationships that make regional success happen.

7 to 8 a.m. • Main Hall

Welcome

We begin the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation EXPO with a moment of deep respect and cultural acknowledgment. The Canoe Family Blessing will open our day with a traditional Tribal Blessing, honoring the original stewards of this land and grounding our event in a spirit of unity and shared purpose. Following this meaningful start, we will extend our appreciation to the sponsors and partners whose leadership and support make this EXPO possible. Their dedication to innovation and regional prosperity helps fuel the progress we are here to celebrate. This welcome session sets the tone for the day ahead—rooted in respect, inspired by partnership, and driven by the vision of a vibrant and resilient regional economy.

8 a.m. • Main Stage

General Session

Morning Keynote — Denny Heck

8:20 to 9 a.m. • Main Stage

Tribal Enterprises Panel

Tribal Nations are economic development engines impacting the region’s economy, providing significant employment and generating major investment. Hear from the tribal enterprises leadership of the five county region as they share about exciting new developments on the horizon and present recent strategies and actions that build wealth and create opportunities of economic impact. Chehalis Tribal Enterprises — (Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation) Quinault Corporate Enterprises — (Quinault Indian Nation) Willapa Bay Enterprises — (Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe) Island Enterprises, Inc. — (Squaxin Island Tribe)

9 to 9:45 a.m. • Main Stage

AI & the Future of Work: Unlocking Economic Potential

Artificial Intelligence isn’t here to replace people — it’s here to empower them. This session explores how AI can be a catalyst for economic development, driving innovation, boosting productivity, and creating new opportunities across industries. Our panel will focus on workforce transformation: what skills are needed, how to upskill and reskill existing employees, and why the real risk isn’t AI taking jobs — it’s people losing jobs because they don’t know how to use AI. Learn how communities, businesses, and educators can collaborate to ensure workers thrive in an AI-enabled economy. Attendees will walk away with actionable insights on: • Leveraging AI to solve workforce shortages and increase efficiency • Training strategies to build AI literacy at every level. Examples of regional and national success stories where AI adoption spurred economic growth How to prepare your workforce for the jobs of tomorrow

10 to 10:50 a.m. • Main Stage

Breakout Session 1

Rural Development Strategies: Insights from The Future of Rural

Join us for a dynamic recap of The Future of Rural: Building Capacity, Shaping Community pre-conference training. This moderated panel discussion brings together speakers and participants from the half-day event to reflect on key takeaways, share real-world applications, and continue the conversation around rural resilience and innovation. Whether you attended the pre-conference or are just joining the dialogue, this session offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities—and the tools and strategies that can help shape a thriving future.

10 to 10:50 a.m. • Fallen Timbers A

Breakout Session 1

The Future of Energy: Keeping the Grid Resilient and Reliable

In these times of unprecedented change in the electric utility industry, the question isn’t whether our energy systems will evolve—it’s how we can ensure they remain both resilient and reliable while doing so. This session brings together leading voices from across the energy sector to discuss how utilities, businesses, and communities are preparing for the next era of power generation and delivery. From integrating renewable sources and managing grid reliability, to navigating workforce challenges, cybersecurity, and wildfire resilience—panelists will share how they’re adapting in real time to a rapidly shifting energy landscape. What energy resilience means today and how its definition is evolving. How utilities are managing complexity amid electrification, renewable integration, and new demand patterns. Strategies for investing in modern, reliable infrastructure while cultivating the workforce needed to maintain it. The role of partnerships—between utilities, government, and business—in funding and future-proofing energy systems. Whether you’re a policymaker, business leader, or community partner, this conversation will spark new insights into the innovations, investments, and collaborations shaping the grid of tomorrow.

10 to 10:50 a.m. • Fallen Timbers B

Breakout Session 1

Lunch & Keynote Speaker Dr. Bill Conerly

Renowned economist Dr. Bill Conerly will provide an insightful look at the economic landscape—nationally and across the five-county PacMtn region. With clarity and wit, Dr. Conerly will explore trends in jobs, inflation, and interest rates, connecting national data to what’s happening here at home. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how global and national forces are shaping our local economies and what to watch for in the year ahead. Dr. Conerly will also share longer-term perspectives on Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the economy, offering practical insights into how emerging technologies may reshape productivity, employment, and growth. In addition, we will proudly present the Nancie Payne Award, honoring an individual who exemplifies exceptional leadership, innovation, and service in advancing economic and workforce development throughout the region

Noon to 1 p.m. • Main Stage

From Students to Founders: Building Local Economies from Campus to Community

Discover how Foundry Innovations PBC is reshaping the future of regional economic development by turning students into entrepreneurs — right where they live and learn. Through its “Spark Creation Model,” Foundry partners with colleges and communities to launch real companies that create local jobs, attract investment, and build economic resilience. Join Foundry’s leadership team to explore how multi-county partnerships, university collaborations, and private investment can transform higher education into a driver of local prosperity. Colleges are full of untapped potential — creative, ambitious students ready to innovate but unsure where to start. Foundry Innovations PBC bridges this gap by transforming regional colleges into startup engines. In this session, learn how Foundry’s model empowers students to validate markets, build real products, and launch ventures that stay and scale locally. Explore how education, industry, and investors can work together to cultivate a generation of job creators driving the next wave of economic growth across the region. What if every college town could be an innovation hub? Foundry Innovations PBC, a Public Benefit Corporation, is proving it can. By aligning purpose with profit, Foundry helps students launch companies that deliver social and economic impact in their own communities. This session shares success stories, partnership opportunities, and the measurable outcomes of Foundry’s Spark Creation Model — a proven framework for sustainable, inclusive entrepreneurship in regional economies.

1:15 to 2:05 p.m. • Main Stage

Breakout Session 2

Tourism as an Economic Catalyst

1:15 to 2:05 p.m. • Fallen Timbers A

Breakout Session 2

Smart Retail Strategies for a Thriving Community

Every successful downtown has the right mix of businesses that serve both residents and visitors—and data can show us exactly what’s missing. In this session, experts will walk you through how to use retail market analysis and leakage studies to understand your community’s true needs. Learn practical tools to identify priority business types, strengthen your local retail ecosystem, and attract the right tenants to fill gaps and drive growth. Whether you’re a civic leader, economic developer, or commercial property professional, you’ll leave with strategies you can apply right away to build a more vibrant and resilient marketplace.

1:15 to 2:05 p.m. • Fallen Timbers B

Regional Economic Leadership Roundtable: Building a Unified Path to Prosperity

Across the five-county region, our economic development organizations are driving growth in diverse industry sectors — from innovation and infrastructure to workforce and small business success. In this dynamic roundtable, the executive leaders from each EDC will share their strategic priorities, highlight emerging opportunities, and explore how regional collaboration strengthens local competitiveness. Moderated by Renee Radcliff Sinclair, President & CEO of TVW, this discussion will provide attendees with: • Insights into shared initiatives shaping the South Sound economy • Sector-specific trends influencing regional growth • A look at how coordinated leadership accelerates resilience and prosperity Join us for a forward-looking conversation on what’s next for our region — and how together, we are creating a thriving economic future for businesses and communities across Southwest Washington.

2:15 to 3:10 p.m. • Main Stage

From World Stage to Local Impact: Economic Opportunities of World Cup 2026

The 2026 World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the Olympia/Lacey Fan Zone will put our region on the global stage. From June 11 to July 19, 2026, the tournament will draw a worldwide audience, and an estimated 750,000 visitors are expected to come through Washington State. This session will outline the projected economic impacts and offer practical strategies for local businesses, organizations, and community partners to capitalize on the moment. Join us to learn how the Fan Zone can raise visibility, drive engagement, and deliver lasting benefits for the region.

3:25 to 3:40 p.m. • Main Stage

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For more information, contact:Events Manager Holly House at 360-464-6040 and [email protected]

Business Enterprise Startup Training (BEST) consists of five online courses that help guide new entrepreneurs through the most important aspects of starting a business. Included in BEST is a business plan workbook, recorded webinars, business start-up resources, and six months of free access to Live Plan Business Plan Application.

These courses include:

Business Plan Writing for Startups:

This course was developed to guide new entrepreneurs through the process of starting a business while writing a business plan at the same time. The course uses online learning modules, a business plan exercise workbook, and a business plan web application to make the business plan writing process much less intimidating. Business Plan Writing for Startups provides three step systems for each chapter in the business plan to ensure entrepreneurs understand the most important aspects of starting and operating a business. These systems will help individuals finish their business plans quicker, understand what lenders and investors are looking for in their plans, and ensure new businesses start on a solid foundation.

Structures and Licenses for Startups:

Starting a business can be intimidating and confusing. This course provides a step by step process for starting your business in Washington State. Topics covered in the course include: selecting a legal structure, structure formation process in Washington State, obtaining an Employer Identification Number, obtaining State and City Business Licenses, additional Licensing requirement and business insurance. This course also includes industry specific startup checklists for restaurants, farms, construction etc.

Branding and Marketing forStartups:

One of the most important aspects of starting a business is ensuring you create a path toward developing a strong brand and marketing strategy. Branding and Marketing for Startups presents a three-phase system for creating a strong marketing platform for a startup. Topics covered include: Brand Mission, Brand Guide, Logos, Market Segments, Target Market, Marketing Tool Selection, Websites, Google My Business, Consistent Brand Messaging, Customer Service, Customer Reviews, and Growing your Audience.

Accounting for Startups:

This course was developed by a Certified Public Accountant who has years of experience coaching new business startups. The course outlines the fundamental knowledge entrepreneurs need to successfully manage their finances while ensuring the organization is in compliance with federal, state, and city tax requirements. Topics include: Business Bank Accounts, Accounting Systems, Chart of Accounts, Financial Statements, and Taxes.

Intellectual Property for Startups:

Understanding your businesses intellectual property is an important aspect of developing and maintaining a competitive advantage. This course dives into copyrights, trademarks, patents, and trade secrets. It helps new entrepreneurs understand which intellectual property protection is appropriate and the process of obtaining that protection.

Scholarships are available for this course. Please email [email protected] to request a scholarship application prior to registration. Get Started

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For more information: to schedule a coaching appointment or for more information on registering for courses and training please contact [email protected].

Washington Center for Women in Business (WCWB)

The Washington Center for Women in Business (WCWB) offers a variety of services to women entrepreneurs, individuals interested in starting a business, and organizations in business that are interested in growing their business.

The WCWB offers a free one hour Intro to Business Startup course via webinar or in the Thurston EDC conference room for individuals interested in starting a business but are not sure where to begin. The WCWB also hosts a monthly webinar series entitled Let’s Talk Business (LTB).

LTB features a different business professional every month speaking on their area of expertise related to small business. Webinars are posted at wcwb.org/ltb so individuals can view them at their convenience.

The WCWB hosts an annual women’s business conference INSPIRE where business professionals around Washington can gather together to learn, network and unwind. Lastly, the WCWB offers one-on-one business coaching for, primarily for women owned, businesses. Coaching session are one hour long and can focus on a variety of topics including business plan writing, business start-up, marketing, operations, and finance.

Coaching sessions are free and limited to one a week per client.

This program is ideal for:

Individuals interested in starting a business who are not sure where to start.

Individuals who have a business idea and want to write a business plan.

Individuals who need help starting their business. Including help with licenses, legal structure, financing and investment information.

Women owned businesses who want one-on-one business coaching.

Individuals interested in learning more about the business support the Thurston EDC offers.

Individuals interested in starting a viable business who cannot write their own business plan.

Existing organizations interested in growing their businesses but need training.

Existing organizations that want to increase their business knowledge.

Existing organizations who need specific consulting work such as website building they cannot complete themselves due to lack of technical skills.

To schedule a coaching appointment or for more information on registering for courses and training please contact [email protected]

Quick Startup Program

Are you a woman-identified entrepreneur with a vision to thrive in the digital marketplace? Quick Startup is here to turn your dreams into reality.

INSPIRE Women’s Business Conference

Annual conference that focuses on providing aspiring and current women business owners with tangible tools they can use to succeed. The conference also provides an excellent networking opportunity for women to connect with Washington business leaders.

Let’s Talk Business

The WCWB presents a no cost bi-monthly webinars series featuring business professionals from across the State of Washington with various expertise.

WCWB Business Coaching

The WCWB offers no cost one-on-one business coaching with professionals experienced in business startup, finance, accounting, marketing, and operations.