EDASC staff attend key economic development conferences

Staff members from the Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County (EDASC) recently attended two major economic development conferences, bringing back fresh insights and valuable connections to bolster Skagit County's economic landscape.

EDASC's Economic Development Managers Aaron Weinberg (Strategic Projects) and Jorge Estefan (Equitable Economic Development), attended the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Annual Conference in Spokane, Washington. This event is a flagship gathering for economic development professionals, featuring keynote speeches, workshops, and networking opportunities. The IEDC conference allowed Weinberg and Estefan to engage with experts and peers from across the nation, discussing the latest trends and best practices in economic development. The conference also focused on cutting-edge technology and applications. This was the first-ever IEDC conference held in Washington state.

"The IEDC conference was an invaluable experience," Estefan said. "We were able to learn from leading experts and exchange ideas with our peers, which will help us implement strategies to support, attract and retain businesses in our community."

Separately, Aaron Weinberg also attended the Washington Economic Development Association (WEDA) Summer Conference following IEDC, also in Spokane. This conference brought together economic development professionals from across the state to address regional economic challenges and opportunities. Weinberg's participation underscores EDASC's commitment to proactive economic strategies and collaboration with statewide partners. The theme was “Sprinting toward a more equitable future.”

"Attending these conferences is crucial for staying informed about the latest economic development trends and building relationships with other professionals in the field," Weinberg said. "The knowledge and connections gained from these events will be instrumental in advancing our efforts to promote economic growth and prosperity in Skagit County."

The presence of EDASC staff at these events highlights the organization's dedication to fostering economic development and ensuring a vibrant future for Skagit County. Their attendance is expected to bring new strategies and partnerships that will benefit local businesses and the community at large.