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More Great Events from Our Partners Across the Great Lakes

The Great Lakes Economic Development Council is proud to support and promote the exceptional events and conferences hosted by our partner organizations throughout the Great Lakes region. These gatherings offer unmatched opportunities for professional development, networking, and collaboration on the issues that matter most to economic development practitioners and regional leaders.

We encourage all members to attend and engage with our regional partners. By participating, you're not only enhancing your own professional journey—you’re contributing to a stronger, more connected, and more competitive Great Lakes region.

Stay tuned to our event calendar and newsletters for the latest on upcoming partner conferences and opportunities near you.


Upcoming events

  • APDEQ Annual Conference

    • 8 Oct 2025
    • 9 Oct 2025
    • Château Roberval, Roberval


    The 65th Annual APDEQ Conference will take place on October 8 and 9, 2025, at the Hôtel Château Roberval, under the theme:

    Converge to Better Harness – Our Resources at the Heart of the Bioeconomy.

    Held entirely in French, this flagship event will bring together over 300 economic development professionals from across Québec. Over the course of two full days, participants will enjoy a program of conferences, panels, field visits, and networking activities, all in an atmosphere of shared learning and forward-thinking reflection.

    The Congress is aimed at professionals from the municipal, entrepreneurial, tourism, agricultural, and forestry sectors, looking to deepen their knowledge, discover innovative approaches, and draw inspiration from real-world projects rooted in regional realities.

    More Information Here

    Show details

  • 2025 OEDA Annual Summit

    • 15 Oct 2025
    • 17 Oct 2025
    • Akron, OH


    About the Summit

    The 2025 OEDA Annual Summit will convene more than 500 economic development professionals for three energizing days of learning, inspiration, and meaningful connection, right in the heart of downtown Akron. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting out, the Summit is designed to help you sharpen your skills, expand your network, and amplify your impact.

    CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

    Highlights of this year’s Summit include:

    • 30+ Breakout Sessions organized into six dynamic tracks:
      Energy & Infrastructure, Housing, Workforce Development, Technology & Tools, Real Estate Development, and Principles & Practices.

    • Content for All Levels: Each track features sessions for beginner, intermediate, and advanced practitioners, as well as focused spotlights on Akron and Northeast Ohio innovations.

    • 5 Experiential Tours / Learning Labs showcasing real-world projects and community partnerships.

      • Bounce Innovation Center Tour
      • Lock 3 Redevelopment & InterBelt Tour
      • Polymer Science Center at the University of Akron Tour
      • AES Power Generation Facility Tour
      • JobsOhio Liquor Enterprise Tour

    • 10 high-impact IGNITE presentations—quick, powerful talks that spark new thinking.

    • 6 AMplify Talks are designed to share bold ideas in short, focused formats happening in the mornings. 

    • Inspiring General Sessions and Keynotes featuring statewide and national voices in economic development.

      • Keynote Speaker: Strong Towns – sponsored by Neighborhood Strategies.

    • Engaging Networking + Social Events that foster collaboration and community—like the Chairman’s Reception, Women in ED, and the always-popular Late Night Trivia.

    • Pre-Conference Activities on October 14, including our first-ever community service project, a golf scramble, and early arrival tours.

    Show details