Federal Economic Development Forum
Building a Competitive Future Through Innovative Partnerships
March 20-22 │ San Diego, CA

Register by close of business this Friday, January 21 and save $100 with our early registration rates!
http://www.iedconline.org/FederalForum/index.html

The Obama administration has placed a strong emphasis on competitiveness and driving American goods, and services abroad. The 2011 Federal Economic Development Forum, March 20-23, in the Washington DC Metro Area, will highlight the new Federal programs and partnerships in place to help your local businesses connect with the expanding global market.

You will grow your community's competitiveness by connecting the movement of goods and services; connecting regions through infrastructure development; and connecting our global markets through foreign direct investment, will grow your community's competitiveness. Connectivity is key to competing globally. With increased competition also come increased opportunities – to grow local economies through exporting, attracting multinational enterprises, and building high-speed rail lines and expanding broadband. With the right knowledge and tools, your community can reap the benefits of these chances for growth and competition on a global level.

SESSIONS OF INTEREST INCLUDE:

Grasping Federal FDI Initiatives
Sunday, March 20
3:15 pm – 5:00 pm

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is a key driver of the United States economy. It is an essential source of innovation, helps U.S. exports, and provides jobs for Americans from coast to coast. The government has recently renewed its commitment to FDI and supporting local and regional FDI efforts. Learn how the government is keeping America the world's most welcoming place to do business.

Investing in American Competitiveness
Monday, March 21
10:15 - 11:45 am

In today's global economy, being competitive depends on the movement of goods and ideas on faster, smoother, and safer infrastructure. Innovations in broadband and high-speed rail promise to become even more critical to American businesses in the future. The current administration and the 111th Congress have made it a priority to improve the infrastructure in the United States and providing the funding and policies to do so. This session will explore the federal programs improving the flow of goods, people and information to be a champion in the global economy.

Exporting American Goods in the Global Economy
Monday, March 21
3:45 - 5:15 pm

In his 2010 State of the Union, President Obama introduced the National Export Initiative-a five year strategy to double American exports, examine and reduce barriers for trade, and create of millions of jobs for Americans. Export policies can assist manufacturers, farmers, entrepreneurs and small businesses in being competitive in the global economy. Discover how the efforts taken by the National Export Initiative and the Export Promotion Cabinet are impacting businesses and export opportunities. Learn how your community can leverage these initiatives for local job creation and economic growth.

EXPERT SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

Dennis Alvord
Executive Director
Commerce Connect
U.S. Department of Commerce

Aaron Seth Brickman
Director
Invest in America
Washington, DC

Ronald W. DeBarr
President & CEO
Northeast Ohio Trade & Economic Consortium (NEOTEC)
Kent, OH

Michael F. Northrop
Program Director
Global Sustainable Development Program
Rockefeller Brothers Fund
New York, NY