Federal Economic Development Forum
Building Tomorrow's Economic Foundation: Innovation │Infrastructure │Investment │International
March 18-20, 2012
Washington, DC Metro Area

http://www.iedconline.org/FederalForum/index.html

In late 2011, IEDC released an updated version of Jobs in the Making: Economic Development Strategies to Grow Manufacturing, a report that focuses on the condition of American manufacturing and how it can be revitalized. IEDC also signed, as an original signatory organization, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation's A Charter to Revitalize American Manufacturing. The charter is an executive summary of key policy and program initiatives the Federal government should enact to foster the growth and sustainability of manufacturing in the U.S. The Obama Administration, through the creation of the Office of Manufacturing Policy, co-chaired by Commerce Secretary John Bryson and National Economic Council Director Gene Sperling, has made the revitalization of manufacturing a top economic priority.

After years of decline in manufacturing jobs and the broad range of associated issues (from innovation to workforce training), a perfect storm of public and private sector interest is forming over American manufacturing. The connection between economic growth and prosperity and manufacturing is indisputable. Join us at the 2012 Federal Economic Development Forum as we bring together federal officials and thought leaders who will share with you their expertise on why manufacturing matters again, now more than ever, and what your community can do to be a part of the renaissance.

Keynote Session of Interest:

Global Trends Driving a Renaissance in U.S. Manufacturing

The Boston Consulting Group recently released a report stating the U.S. stood to gain 3 million manufacturing jobs in the near future as companies return to the US for their manufacturing needs. The report suggests that the re-shoring of jobs will be driven by a flexible U.S. workforce, a resilient corporate sector, innovative supply chain logistics, and a smarter federal government approach to manufacturing.

In this session, thought leaders from the private sector and the federal government will provide their views and insights on what types of industries are poised to engage in re-shoring or whether this projected trend will actually come to fruition. Additionally, we'll hear from senior government officials who will discuss the renewed emphasis on manufacturing and how the Administration plans to address the complex issues facing a manufacturing resurgence.

Keynote Speakers:

Hon. John Fernandez: Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, EDA, Department of Commerce
Jay Timmons: President, National Association of Manufacturers
Rob Atkinson: President, Information Technology & Innovation Foundation
Gary Shapiro: President & CEO, Consumer Electronics Association

Session of Interest:

Understanding Programs to Strengthen Manufacturing in Your Community

The downturn in the US economy had a significant impact on America's global competiveness. In particular, the manufacturing sector experienced unprecedented job loss and overall decline. As the economic recovery starts to take hold, the re-emergence of manufacturing is an integral part of increasing American Competiveness. To grow the local manufacturing base, economic developers must think locally and globally. From technical guidance to export expertise, the federal government has programs in place to aid manufacturers.

Featured Speakers:

Mark Troppe – Manager, Strategic Partnerships, NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership, Department of Commerce, MD
Darrell Auterson – President & CEO, York County Economic Alliance, PA
Neil Reddy – Executive Director, Manufacturing Skill Standards Council, VA

Moderated by Jay C. Moon, President & CEO of the Mississippi Manufacturers Association and Chair of the International Economic Development Council

ABOUT THE FEDERAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM:
Federal policies and programs are continually changing to address the effects of the Great Recession and build U.S. global competitiveness. How can you navigate and capture federal resources to grow innovation and investment in your community? The Obama administration is pushing global trade, innovation and entrepreneurship as the keys to boosting the American economy. Meanwhile, economic developers play a front-line role in connecting Washington policies and programs with local and state efforts to create jobs and increase investment. You'll hear top national officials, thought leaders and senior program administrators address how federal resources can help your community strengthen its infrastructure, attract private investment, foster innovation and integrate globally.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
• Economic developers focused on federal policy
• Federal, state, and local government officials and policymakers
• Non-profits and associations
• Venture capitalists
• Private sector stakeholders
• Universities and research institutions
• Members of state and local economic development organizations

HOTEL INFORMATION
Westin Alexandria
400 Courthouse Square
Alexandria, VA 22314-5700
Phone: (703) 253-8600 or 1-866-837-4210
IEDC room rate: $219/single and double*
Group rate cutoff: Wednesday, February 22, 2012

http://www.iedconline.org/FederalForum/index.html