U.S. Senator Mark Kelly to Address Economic Development Leaders at IEDC’s 2024 Leadership Summit

Published: 02/03/2024
Updated: 04/16/2024

PHOENIX (Feb. 3, 2024) – The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is excited to announce that U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly will be a keynote speaker at the 2024 Leadership Summit, in partnership with Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC). Kelly will address economic development leaders from around the world on Sunday, February 4, highlighting his career, legislative leadership, and how he is working to drive rural economic prosperity throughout Arizona and the nation.

Kelly’s participation underscores his commitment to promoting economic growth, innovation, and collaboration. As a leading voice in the U.S. Senate, Kelly brings a wealth of experience and insights into critical economic issues, including his leadership in advocating for water conservation, watershed improvements, infrastructure, and erosion protection additions to the Farm Bill reauthorization.

Other speakers set to address attendees include talent attraction expert Mark Perna, Mayors Kate Gallego (Phoenix, Ariz.), John Giles (Mesa, Ariz.), Corey Woods (Tempe, Ariz.), Alexis Hermosillo (El Mirage, Ariz.), Bryan Paterson (Kingston, ON), and a host of speakers focused on driving global collaboration and fostering international partnerships to address shared challenges.

“We are honored to have Senator Kelly join our dynamic economic development leaders speaking at IEDC’s Leadership Summit,” expressed IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle. “Senator Kelly’s dedication to economic growth, particularly in rural areas, as well as his exceptional leadership skills, will provide a unique perspective on addressing economic development issues. I am confident his message will undoubtedly complement the outstanding programming offered throughout the conference.”

Kelly’s keynote discussion with GPEC President and CEO Chris Camacho will delve into the strategies necessary to navigate the ever-evolving economic landscape, from analyzing market trends and federal policy to identifying new opportunities.

“As Arizona’s Senator, driving economic growth and creating good-paying jobs is my top priority. I’m proud of the work we’ve done, alongside our local partners, to help communities of all sizes invest in their economic future. I look forward to discussing our work to make Arizona the best place to start a business and raise a family,” said Kelly.

“Senator Kelly has been instrumental in strengthening Arizona’s position as a hub for semiconductors, bioscience, and climate technology, and his perspective will offer timely, impactful insights to international leaders at the summit,” said Camacho. “With an emphasis on innovation to address needs and create opportunities, the senator’s approach is directly aligned with GPEC’s commitment to building a competitive, anti-fragile region that supports generations to come.”

Senator Kelly, a former U.S. Navy pilot, astronaut, and advocate for innovation, is well-known for his dedication to bipartisan efforts that promote economic development, job creation, and technological advancements. His discussion at the Summit will undoubtedly contribute to shaping the dialogue on economic policies and strategies that drive sustainable growth.

GPEC encourages business leaders, policymakers, and economic development professionals to attend the IEDC 2024 Leadership Summit and benefit from Senator Kelly’s perspective. This event will be a unique opportunity to engage with influential figures, share best practices, and chart the course for a prosperous international economic future.

For more information about the 2024 IEDC Leadership Summit, please visit www.iedconline.org/phoenix.

About the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC)
The Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), globally recognized as a top economic development organization (EDO), works to attract and grow quality businesses and advocate for the competitiveness of Greater Phoenix. A data-driven regional EDO, GPEC works with 22 member communities, Maricopa and Pinal counties, and more than 200 private investors to accomplish its mission and serve as a strategic partner to companies across the world as they expand or relocate to Greater Phoenix. Over the past 34 years, GPEC has fueled the regional economy by helping over 980 companies, creating nearly 182,000 jobs and more than $65 billion in capital investment. Greater Phoenix is in a relentless pursuit of innovative and entrepreneurial-focused companies looking to thrive and scale in a vibrant, dynamic region. There is an undeniable spirit about Greater Phoenix; one rooted in strength, collaboration and resilience. Greater Phoenix is Greater Together. For more information about GPEC and how we can assist your businesses, visit www.gpec.org.

About the International Economic Development Council (IEDC)
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers. With more than 4,300 members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth and provide a stable tax base. From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, IEDC’s members engage in the full range of economic development practices. Given the breadth of economic development work, our members are employed in various settings, including local, state, provincial, and federal governments, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, universities, and a variety of other institutions. When we succeed, our members create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions. Learn more at www.iedconline.org.