2024 MEDA Summer Conference: Best Practices for Economic Developers in Site Selector Engagement participants will gain insights into the current state of site selection, explore international site selection criteria, and learn how to leverage locational advantages effectively. Through expert-led discussions and networking opportunities, attendees will discover best practices and effective strategies. This event is a great opportunity for economic development professionals to enhance their understanding of site selection and drive successful outcomes for their communities.
When: July 24, 2024 from 9 AM to 12 PM
Where: Virtual
Draft Agenda
9:00 – 9:15 AM WELCOME AND MEDA BUSINESS MEETING
- Welcome: Richard Griffin, CEcD, MEDA President
- Approval of Minutes: Kelly Robertson-Slagle, MEDA Secretary
- Induction of New Members: Denise Beaver, CEcD, and Ebony Stocks, MEDA Membership Co-Chairs
9:15 – 9:45 AM The State of Site Selection
9:45 – 10:15 AM “Economic Development and Site Selectors the Importance of the Relationship”
- W. Ford Graham, SVP Infrastructure & Economic Development, McGuireWoods Consulting LLC
- Lara Fritts, CEcD, Director of Economic Opportunity, Frederick County
10:15 – 10:25 AM Break
10:25 – 10:55 AM “Importance of Site Readiness”
- Jeannette T. Goldsmith, Vice President, Strategic Development Group
10:55 – 11:25 AM “How to Lose a Project in 10 Ways”
- Nicholette Ross, Managing Consultant, Global Location Strategies
11:25 – 11:55 AM “How Projects are Evaluated”
- Alicia Janesko Hutchings, Director, Site Selection & Incentives, Cresa
- Ann Harts, Senior Vice President, Site Selection & Incentives, Cresa
- Kelsey Landrum, BlueChip
- Cody Armstrong, BlueChip
11:55 AM – 12:15 PM Wrap-Up