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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:
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30+ Breakout Sessions organized into six dynamic tracks:
Energy & Infrastructure, Housing, Workforce Development, Technology & Tools, Real Estate Development, and Principles & Practices.
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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.
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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
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10 high-impact IGNITE presentations—quick, powerful talks that spark new thinking.
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6 AMplify Talks are designed to share bold ideas in short, focused formats happening in the mornings.
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Inspiring General Sessions and Keynotes featuring statewide and national voices in economic development.
- Keynote Speaker: Strong Towns – sponsored by Neighborhood Strategies.
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Engaging Networking + Social Events that foster collaboration and community—like the Chairman’s Reception, Women in ED, and the always-popular Late Night Trivia.
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Pre-Conference Activities on October 14, including our first-ever community service project, a golf scramble, and early arrival tours.
