President's Message

Elevating Innovation from the Ground Up: Salt Lake City is Calling!

My first NREDA Annual Conference was in 2018 in St. Petersburg, Florida. As a total newcomer, I naturally gravitated to the Iowans I already knew. We bonded over the week, which helped me build a stronger state network - but over the years, something even bigger has happened. Yes, I was a hesitant newbie at that first conference, but I’ve attended every conference since, and my professional network has been elevated far beyond my state contacts to include a nationwide family!

Looking back, I see how the magic happened. My journey with NREDA truly built itself from the ground up. I might have arrived feeling a bit unsure, but members pulled me into the fold. It started small: attend conference, meet more people, learn great stuff, and repeat. Then I elevated my engagement: I joined a committee, ran for a board position and got elected, joined the Executive Committee, and today, I have the honor of serving as President!

I’m excited to attend my ninth conference this November in Salt Lake City. This year’s theme, "Elevating Innovation from the Ground Up," captures the heart of what we do as economic developers. The Conference Committee has built an outstanding lineup designed to give you practical tools and ground-level solutions you can elevate in your own community right away. I’m looking forward to learning about:

• Business transitions as entrepreneurship opportunities
• Innovative solutions for addressing rural housing needs
• Proven strategies for overcoming NIMBYism
• The latest in rural site selection
• Geopolitical trends affecting rural economies

And, of course, touring interesting places and projects in Salt Lake City through the mobile classrooms. We know you’ll leave with fresh ideas and a nationwide network of friends - not just friends, but a family - ready to pick up the phone when you call!

If you are ready to elevate your work and innovate from the ground up, join us in Salt Lake City! Be sure to lock in early-bird registration before October 12 to save your spot. The NREDA Annual Conference is the single best way to get inspired, build your network, and bring new ideas back home.