WEDA’s 2025 Governor’s Conference on Economic Development celebrates WEDA’s 50th Anniversary! The Governor’s Conference is the largest WEDA education and networking event of the year.
Annually, WEDA’s Governor’s Conference attracts 275-300 economic and community development professionals as well as workforce development professionals and business leaders from across Wisconsin. The 2025 WEDA Governor’s Conference on Economic Development will feature industry thought leaders and practitioners who will tackle workforce and economic development challenges facing our businesses and communities today. The packed agenda has something for everyone as we focus on talent attraction, strengthening our communities, and advancing economic growth in rural and urban Wisconsin.
We look forward to seeing you at the 2025 Governor’s Conference!
Don't miss the panel on 2/7-
Funding Transformational Change in Wisconsin’s Growing Industries
Learn how to capitalize on significant federal funding opportunities included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and CHIPS and Science Act. A panel of recent project awardees will share insights on:
Identifying a Competitive Advantage: Discover strategies to identify your region's unique strengths and assets.
Honing an Industry Focus: Learn how to target specific industries that align with your region's strengths and federal funding priorities.
Impactful Collaborations: Discover how to forge strong partnerships between economic developers, researchers, and industry partners.
Moderator: Idella Kangas, Director, Economic & Employer Relations, UW System
Speakers: Wendy Harris, Regional Innovation Officer, Wisconsin BioHealth Tech Hub | Karen Frost, VP Economic Development & Innovation, The Water Council, Milwaukee | Michael Cook, Director-Industry-Academia Enablement, Rockwell Automation