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Opportunities for Networking and Learning 



Engaging Events

The Great Lakes Economic Development Council plans a broad range of opportunities to collaborate, network, learn, and grow professionally. The GLEDC brings together economic development, business, governmental and academic leaders, speakers, and training instructors for engaging growth opportunities.

Be Greater! Monthly Webinar Series 

Annual Conference

Partner Events




The Be Greater! webinar series helps professionals expand their knowledge, stay ahead of emerging trends, and strengthen their ability to drive prosperity in their communities and across the Great Lakes. Held twice monthly and FREE to members of the GLEDC. 

The Annual Conference is the premier GLEDC event covering the latest trends in economic development and expert-led sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.

The Great Lakes Economic Development Council proudly promotes events and conferences hosted by our regional partners—offering valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration on key economic development issues.

Watch for these new events under development.....

Great Lakes EDC Leadership Camp

Great Lakes Site Selection Summit

Great Lakes Local!




The GLEDC Leadership Camp focuses on issues  impacting organizational performance, innovation and growth. It helps staff leaders be better managers, leaders and communicators.

The Great Lakes Site Selection Summit is a leading national event that brings together site selection consultants, location advisors, and economic development professionals. 

Great Lakes Local! events provide members small in-person networking opportunities. At Great Lakes Local events participants can connect, build relationships and share knowledge with their local networks of economic development professionals.


Upcoming events

    • 22 Oct 2025
    • 24 Oct 2025
    • 2
    Register

    The Great Lakes Economic Development Council Annual Conference brings together economic developers, site selectors, business leaders, and policymakers from across the region. The event focuses on collaboration, innovation, and strategies to strengthen the Great Lakes economy. Sponsors gain direct access to key decision-makers and high-impact visibility among regional leaders.

    A number of individual, Specialty Sponsorships are available including:

    • Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Opening Reception, Networking Breaks)
    • Registration (Lanyards, Hotel Keycards, Tote Bags)
    • Events (Community Project, Fun Run)
    • Technology (Charging Station, Wi-Fi Connection, Conference App)
    • Lounge Sponsor, and Keynote Speaker 
    • Exhibitor Tables are also available upon request

    For more information, contact Support@GreatLakesEDC.org.

    • 22 Oct 2025
    • 5:00 PM
    • 24 Oct 2025
    • 1:00 PM
    • The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit 1114 Washington Boulevard Detroit, Michigan, USA, 48226
    Register

    Join economic development professionals, business leaders, and policymakers at the inaugural Great Lakes Economic Development Council Annual Conference in Detroit, Michigan, from Wednesday, October 22, 2025 – Friday, October 24, 2025. This premier gathering will explore strategies to drive investment, innovation, and economic growth across the Great Lakes region.

    Through expert-led sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, attendees will gain insights into key issues such as workforce development, infrastructure, site selection, and the region’s competitive advantages in water and energy resources. Engage with top decision-makers, share best practices, and build connections that will shape the economic future of the Great Lakes.

    Be part of the conversation that’s driving prosperity in the region. Mark your calendar and join us in Detroit!

    Conference Agenda

    Hotel Information


    Cancellations: If you are not able to attend the conference, please send your written notification to support@greatlakesedc.org .

    An administrative fee of $150 will be assessed for cancellations received by Friday, September 12, 2025.

    No refunds will be made for requests after Friday, September 12, 2025.