Thurston Economic Development Council

🌟 Full house at the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023: Where Leaders Meet!

Thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this event possible! A huge shoutout to Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, Washington State Department of Commerce, TwinStar Credit Union, Centralia College, Nisqually Red Wind Casino, Umpqua Bank, Port of Olympia and Morningside!

🚀 The Thurston EDC and Lacey MakerSpace team are working hard, setting up for tomorrow's Regional Economic Forecast and Innovation EXPO at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound! 🌐💼 But here's the burning question – do they get to go to the water park for fun after their hard work? 🌊 Holly House says, 'Absolutely!'

We're looking forward to seeing you tomorrow for a day of innovation and maybe a splash of adventure. 🎉 See you there!

🌟 Join us at the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023: Where Leaders Meet!

📅 Date: Thursday, December 7, 2023

Thank you to our incredible sponsors for making this event possible! A huge shoutout to Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, Washington State Department of Commerce, TwinStar Credit Union, Centralia College, Nisqually Red Wind Casino, Umpqua Bank, Port of Olympia and Morningside!

🔗 Click the link to register: https://bit.ly/40Ud8Lf

🔮 Let's build a future of strong communities together! 🔮

A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us at the Thurston EDC's Board Holiday Party at the Olympia Country and Golf Club last night! 🌟 Your presence made the evening truly special, and we couldn't be more thankful for such an incredible community.

🙌 Your dedication, passion, and hard work are the driving forces behind the success of Thurston EDC, and we're immensely grateful for each and every one of you.

As we celebrate the holiday season, let's continue to build upon the spirit of collaboration and community that defines Thurston EDC. Here's to a wonderful year ahead filled with shared successes and meaningful connections! 🥂

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We hear from you every year that you love the Tastings during our networking time at the Regional Economic Forecast and Innovation Expo on December 7, so we've once again partnered with amazing businesses to bring you an incredible lineup of sips and bites!

Bittersweet Chocolates, Sandstone Distillery, Percival Creek Beer, Taylor Shellfish Farms, Finnriver Cider and Great Wolf Lodge!

⚡️ Secure your ticket before they are sold out! https://bit.ly/40Ud8Lf

🌟 Unlock the Potential of the Creative Economy!

Join us at the Regional Economic Forecast and Innovation EXPO on December 7 at Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound! Here's a look at one of our inspiring breakout sessions!

🎨 Dive into the transformative world of the creative economy and discover how it can elevate economic prosperity in our region. Learn from industry expert Annette Roth, Community Development and Creative Districts Program Manager for Washington State Arts Commission, as she unveils exciting initiatives in the Pac-5 region.

🌐 Explore success stories of artists, creatives, and city leaders who have diversified their local economies, sparking innovation, entrepreneurship, and increased investment through arts and culture. Be part of a dynamic discussion that has the power to shape the future of our community.

Reserve your seat today at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/regional-economic-forecast-and-innovation-expo-registration-703760104417?aff=oddtdtcreator

🚀Dive into the Future at the Innovation Expo 2023! 💡

📅 December 7, 2023

🌐 Unleash the power of AI in Economic Development! 🤖✨ Join us for an exclusive breakout session on "Using AI Tools for Economic Development" at the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo. 🌟

Explore the vast potential of AI tools like ChatGPT, Bard, and more, tailor-made for Economic Development professionals. This engaging session promises an overview of AI use cases, real-world examples, an exciting demo from Microsoft, and insider tips & tricks for optimal use!

This isn't just a session; it's an experience you won't find anywhere else! Only at THE Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo.

💼 In addition to AI, our breakout sessions shine a spotlight on pressing regional issues, including workforce development, infrastructure, energy needs, and the creative economy. 🚀

🍻 Indulge in local food and craft beverage tastings, and don't miss the chance to network with local vendors!

🎟️ Hurry, limited spots available! Secure your ticket now: $100 for attendees, $700 for exhibitors. 🎟️ https://bit.ly/40Ud8Lf

📩 For sponsorship opportunities, contact Holly House at [email protected]. Let's shape the future together! 🌟

Regional Economic Forecast and Innovation EXPO Building a Strong & Resilient Regional Economic Ecosystem

🌟Unlock the Future with Future Business Leaders of America at the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023—Where Leaders Meet!

📅 December 7, 2023

👩‍💼👨‍💼 Ever wondered how the next generation views economic development? 🌐 Don't miss this panel discussion, "An Economic Development Perspective from the Next Generation," as members of the Future Business Leaders of America, hailing from Olympia High School, take center stage!

🔮 Gain unique insights as these dynamic students share their perspectives on how current economic conditions shape their future plans. 💡They're not just talking; they've successfully run school-based businesses, and now they're ready to spill the secrets of their success.

🎟️ Limited spots available! Secure your ticket now: $100 for attendees $700 for exhibitors. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity! https://bit.ly/40Ud8Lf

📩 For sponsorship opportunities, contact Holly House at [email protected]. Let's shape the future together! 🌟

Elevate Our Region at the Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023-Where Leaders Meet

📅 December 7, 2023

🔍 Dive into the heart of the matter with our breakout session: "Journey2Jobs: Connecting Workforce Development and Homeless Response."
You'll hear from
Valeo Vocation's Sherri Jensen
Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council's Jeannie House
City of Olympia - Government's Darian Lightfoot
City of Olympia - Government's Mike Reid

🌈 Witness the transformative impact as the City of Olympia, PacMtn, and Valeo Vocation unite in pioneering the Journey2Jobs program. 🌐 This groundbreaking initiative not only provides low-barrier workforce development but also links homeless residents to employment opportunities.

🍽️ Indulge your taste buds with local food and craft beverage tastings, and network with local vendors! 🍻🍔

🎟️ Limited spots available; secure yours NOW! Admission: $100 for attendees $700 for exhibitors. https://bit.ly/40Ud8Lf

🤝 Connect, learn, and be part of the change! 🌟

Regional Economic Forecast and Innovation EXPO Building a Strong & Resilient Regional Economic Ecosystem

🌐 Unlock the Future of Prosperity! 🌐

🌟 Join us at the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023! 🌟

📅 Date: Thursday, December 7, 2023

🌍 Dive into the heartbeat of our region with the Economic Development Leaders Panel! Here from
Thurston County Economic Development Council's Michael Cade
Pacific County Economic Development's Susan Yirku
Economic Development Council of Mason County's Joe Schmit
Economic Alliance of Lewis County's Todd Chaput
Greater Grays Harbor's Lynnette Buffington
Moderated by Jeff Slakey of Tracing the Fjord

🌟 Discover the synergy of Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston counties as they unite to fuel economic growth and innovation!

🎟️ Secure your spot NOW before seats run out! This event sells out every year, and you won't want to be left behind as we shape the future of our community. 🎟️🏃‍♂️💨

🔗 Click the link to register: https://bit.ly/40Ud8Lf

🔮 Let's build a future of strong communities together! 🔮

🌐 Join us for a dynamic exploration of the Changing Times in Energy Panel Discussion, moderated by the insightful Michael Cade, at the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023! ⚡️

As we navigate these transformative times, understanding the ins and outs of renewable energy is crucial. Whether it's biomass, wind, solar, or hydrogen, each comes with benefits and concerns for our community.

📅 December 7, 2023
🕒 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Great Wolf Lodge

Secure your spot today! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/regional-economic-forecast-and-innovation-expo-registration-703760104417?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR2FwVZbRpn5KFGEDX68htrlh923OezN6UQBxjoWoqVVdFmez6tDALoBHqs

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Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023: Building Economic Prosperity in Our Region Register Here Register Here Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023: Building Economic Prosperity in Our Region The highly anticipated Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo is set to return...

🌐 Join us for an insightful discussion on "Building the Region's Talent Pipeline" at the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023! 🚀

🤝 Dive into the strategies of fostering, nurturing, and streamlining our talent pipeline with a panel of Workforce Development Professionals. Discover firsthand the challenges we face, future prospects, best practices, cross-sector partnerships, and real-life success stories showcasing the crucial role of strategic workforce planning.

🗓️ Save the Date:
📅 December 7, 2023
🕒 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Great Wolf Lodge

This is your chance to gain valuable insights into how we can collectively shape the future talent landscape in our region. Don't miss out on this vital conversation!

Secure your spot and be part of the dialogue on Building Economic Prosperity in Our Region: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/regional-economic-forecast-and-innovation-expo-registration-703760104417?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR2FwVZbRpn5KFGEDX68htrlh923OezN6UQBxjoWoqVVdFmez6tDALoBHqs

Let's build a stronger, more resilient workforce together! 💪💼

Webinar Alert - "Are You Ready to Export? – Are You Ready to Go to a Trade Show?"

🗓️ Date: Wednesday, November 22, 2023
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Pacific Time)
🔗 Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/are-you-ready-to-export-are-you-ready-to-go-to-a-trade-show-part-2-tickets-709752327317

🌍 Join for insights from experts at Washington Export Outreach Team (WEOT), featuring the Washington SBDC, WA State Dept. of Commerce, U.S. Commercial Service, WA State Dept. of Ag, and WUSATA. Discover export grants, loans, and credit insurance supporting WA businesses at trade shows.

Webinar Alert - Part 1: "Are You Ready to Export? – Meet the Washington Export Outreach Team (WEOT)"

🗓️ Date: Tuesday, December 05, 2023
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Pacific Time)
🔗 Link: Register Here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/are-you-ready-to-export-meet-the-washington-export-outreach-team-weot-tickets-709752798727

🚀 Kick off our ten-part series with an overview of WEOT. Get to know each organization, including WA SBDC, EFACW, WA Dept. of Commerce, U.S. Commercial Service, WA Dept. of Ag, WUSATA, USDA-FAS, EXIM Bank, and SBA OIT. Monthly deep dives follow, showcasing how these services boost WA businesses internationally.

Don't miss out on these invaluable opportunities! 🌎💼

Exciting news for the Pacific Northwest! 🌲🌊 The region is leading the charge towards a cleaner, greener future with the development of a network of clean hydrogen suppliers and end-users. The U.S. Department of Energy has chosen the PNWH2 Hub for award negotiations, a significant step in establishing Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs. Thanks to President Biden's Investing in America agenda, these Hubs will drive the widespread deployment of clean hydrogen. Read the full story here: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news/us-dept-of-energy-selects-pacific-northwest-for-regional-clean-hydrogen-hub/

Curious to learn more? Mark your calendar for the Regional Economic Forecast and Innovation EXPO on December 7! Michael Cade will moderate the Changing Times in Energy Panel Discussion – an event you won't want to miss! You can buy your ticket here:
https://thurstonedc.com/regional-economic-forecast-innovation-expo/

Take the Experience Olympia & Beyond survey for a chance to win prizes! What makes Thurston County unique? What attracts visitors to our area? Let us know at the link below, and easily opt-in to our drawing for prizes. Feeling generous? Share the survey link with your family and friends!
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/B6JGR88.

🌟 Impact Unleashed! 🌐 Thurston Strong, fueled by the American Rescue Plan Act, administered over $7m during the pandemic, sparking a wave of community transformation. From relaunching small businesses to boosting local food systems, the impact was profound.

🔄 The ripple effect? A staggering $14m in total impacts, strengthening supply chains and fueling consumer demand. 📈 Check out the graph to see which industries thrived with ARPA stimulus.

🏠 Even without direct funding, "real estate" felt the impact, showcasing its integral role in our economy at every level. This ongoing research with Thurston County paints a vivid picture of ARPA's profound influence during the COVID-19 pandemic. 📊🔍

🌟 Join us on December 7 at Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound for the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo: Where Leaders Meet.

Dive into insightful breakout sessions, like this one on the importance of Infrastructure Planning. Hear from
Dale Merten with ToledoTel
Mindy Brooks with Lewis County Community Development
Janea Stark with CERB - Community Economic Revitalization Board
Todd Chaput with Economic Alliance of Lewis County

Learn how strategic planning is vital for project success, especially in building public trust. Explore the comprehensive elements of land development, foresee future needs, and discover funding and implementation options for success. See you there!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/regional-economic-forecast-and-innovation-expo-registration-703760104417?aff=oddtdtcreator

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Save the Date: Sunday, November 19th
Location: Olympia Armory Creative Campus

We're excited to invite you to a remarkable event that promises to be a game-changer in your music journey. The South Sound Music Summit is here, and it's absolutely FREE thanks to sponsors, including the Thurston EDC.

At the summit, organizers bring bands, performers, and music industry professionals to create a space where ideas flow, relationships grow, and knowledge is shared. It's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of music and elevate your career to the next level.

Here's a glimpse of some of the speakers:

➡ The Thurston EDC's Aslan Meade will share about the comprehensive resources the Center for Business & Innovation has to help performers who are ready to become a business.
➡ Jane Halldorson, LIVE NATION, UNDERGROUND MUSIC VENUE, SOUTH SOUND BLOCK PARTY: Explore and learn how to book and promote a show from a band and a venue perspective
➡ Andy Moreno, CAPCITY PRESENTS & MCMENAMINS: Tips, contacts and info on getting out in the PNW
➡ Owen Murphy, KEXP, ESPN, NEW AGE HEALERS: De-Mystifying Radio: Strategies for Airplay
➡ Susie Giang, GROUND CONTROL TOURING, Touring Away From Home: How do you know when it's time to venture outside of your home region and how to start booking shows nationally
➡ Chong The Nomad, PRODUCER, ARTIST & DJ
➡ Moderated by: Christen Greene, OWNER, SOUTH SOUND BLOCK PARTY, ARTIST MANAGER

To RSVP and find more info, please visit:
https://www.eventcreate.com/e/the-south-sound-music-summit23

🌟 Join us for the Annual Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023: Where Leaders Meet! 🌟
📆 Date: December 7, 2023
🕗 Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🏨 Location: Great Wolf Lodge
🚀 Don't miss this exclusive opportunity for economic insight and innovation! Network with industry leaders, gain invaluable knowledge and help shape our regional economic future.

🎟️ Secure your spot today! Get your tickets and be a catalyst for regional progress.
Get your tickets now👉 bit.ly/23EXPO
Photo from 2022 Expo with Alexis Alverson, TwinStar Credit Union

🚀Exciting Opportunity Alert! Join the City of Lacey, Washington - Government Business Startup Training on Nov 16-17, 2023, 9-11 am.

🌟 What's in it for you?

Live webinars with experts
Comprehensive online course material
Personalized one-on-one business coaching
Valuable mentorship
Free six-month access to business plan writing software
📚 Training covers vital topics: Startup Structuring, Licensing, Branding, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, and Business Plan Development.

💡 Scholarships available!

https://businessresources.thurstonedc.com/event/city-of-lacey-business-startup-training-nov2023

Dive into the Future of Immersive Entertainment with Somatic VR! 🚀

From 1830's stereoscopic photo viewers to the cutting-edge technology of today, Somatic VR is revolutionizing virtual reality with their EROS Trackers. Partnering with Thurston Economic Development Council and Lacey MakerSpace, they've created next-level immersion tech.

Michael Moore, an avid gamer, recognizes the value of EDC support for early-stage entrepreneurs. Settled in Washington, he sees the collaborative power needed for success. With the Lacey MakerSpace, they've harnessed both financial and creative support, turning their hardware dreams into reality.

Read their story here:
https://thurstonedc.com/building-towards-an-immersive-future-with-somatic-vr/

🌟 Join us on December 7 at Great Wolf Lodge for the Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo: Where Leaders Meet.

Don't miss our inspiring breakout session on the transformative power of ACT WorkKeys! Learn how this dynamic tool boosts economic resilience through targeted workforce development strategies, backed by data analytics. Discover real-world case studies and actionable insights. See you there!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/regional-economic-forecast-and-innovation-expo-registration-703760104417?aff=oddtdtcreator

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Home Center for Business & Innovation Start a Business Grow Your Business Established Businesses Thurston Economic Development Council Working together to support local business development

🌟 Get Ready for the Annual Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023: Where Leaders Meet! 🌟
📆 Date: December 7, 2023
🕗 Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🏨 Location: Great Wolf Lodge
🚀 Don't miss this exclusive opportunity for economic insight and innovation! Network with industry leaders, gain invaluable knowledge and help shape our regional economic future.
🎟️ Secure your spot today! Get your tickets and be a catalyst for regional progress.
Get your tickets now👉 bit.ly/23EXPO

Felix Brockman & Pavan Varakantham from Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)

Elevate Your Business with the Business TuneUp Workshop!

🗓️ When: November 14th and 15th, 9 am to 12 pm
📍 Where: Instructor-led Workshops
👩‍💻 Bring your laptop and QuickBooks Online subscription for hands-on support

💼 Workshop Highlights:
Set up your QuickBooks Online chart of accounts
Generate financial statements for business insights
Discover third-party applications for smoother operations
🌟 Plus, scholarships by the City of Lacey, Washington - Government and City of Olympia - Government.

⚡️ Seize this chance to enhance your business's financial success. Limited seating available—act fast!

https://businessresources.thurstonedc.com/resources/business-tuneup

🌟 Join us for the Annual Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023: Where Leaders Meet! 🌟
📆 Date: December 7, 2023
🕗 Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🏨 Location: Great Wolf Lodge
🚀 Don't miss this exclusive opportunity for economic insight and innovation! Network with industry leaders, gain invaluable knowledge and help shape our regional economic future.
🎟️ Secure your spot today! Get your tickets and be a catalyst for regional progress.
Get your tickets now👉 bit.ly/23EXPO

Photo from the 2022 EXPO featuring Susan Yirku, Executive Director Pacific County EDC, Joe Schmit Deputy Mayor, Shelton City Council; Eric Eisenberg, Lewis County; Rebecca Chaffee, Joint Pacific County Housing Authority Board; Nadine Huck, Seabrook.

Excitement is growing as business and community leaders plan to gather once again to share insights into critical and emerging economic trends at the popular Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo on December 7, 2023, at Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound.

“Economic development in the region has changed fairly dramatically since prior to the pandemic,” says Thurston EDC's Executive Director Michael Cade. “This year’s Regional Forecast event will provide insight and data points detailing changing trend lines – making connections that highlight changes and growth in the economy and providing a guidepost for planning in the upcoming year.”

Hosted by the region’s five economic development organizations, the dynamic event spotlights emerging economic issues such as artificial intelligence (AI), infrastructure, energy, the creative economy and more, with attention to embracing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. The Regional Forecast event offers in-depth presentations on business and workforce changes plus networking opportunities. Early registration is recommended for this sell-out event.

Continue reading here:
https://www.thurstontalk.com/2023/11/03/excitement-builds-as-popular-regional-economic-forecast-innovation-expo-returns-december-7-at-great-wolf-lodge/

Register for the event here:
https://thurstonedc.com/regional-economic-forecast-innovation-expo/

Excitement Builds as Popular Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo Returns December 7 at Great Wolf Lodge - ThurstonTalk Excitement is growing as business and community leaders plan to gather once again to share insights into critical and emerging economic trends at the popular Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo on December 7, 2023, at Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound.

City of Lacey, Washington - Government Business Startup Training

The City of Lacey, in partnership with Thurston EDC's Center for Business & Innovation, offers scholarships for Business Startup Training, featuring:

Live webinars with expert instructors
Access to comprehensive online course material
Personalized one-on-one business coaching
Valuable business mentorship
Complimentary six-month access to business plan writing software
Training covers vital topics, including Startup Structuring and Licensing, Location, Branding, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, and Business Plan Development.

Scholarships target new businesses based or planning to establish themselves in Lacey, focusing on BIPOC, veteran, and women-owned startups.

https://businessresources.thurstonedc.com/event/city-of-lacey-business-startup-training-nov2023

Have you heard? starts TODAY.

Consider making a gift to Lacey MakerSpace!

Your donation isn't just a gift; it's an investment in innovators, quality jobs, lifelong learning, and a flourishing creative economy. Together, we're building a future where ideas take shape, and dreams take flight. 🌈

Please, donate and share our story, and thank you for being a vital part of the Lacey MakerSpace journey! 🙏 https://bit.ly/3ShM1HI

Are you in a band or looking to join one? Are you looking to work in the music industry but are unsure of where (or how to) start?

Please join the South Sound Music Summit on Sunday, November 19, sponsored by the Thurston EDC.

This is a free event (RSVPs strongly encouraged) for bands/performers and music industry professionals to exchange ideas, make new relationships, learn, share resources and more.

We'll have a panel of industry professionals from the greater NW and will tackle topics such as:
> Modern methods of releasing music and albums
> De-mystifying the metrics that talent buyers, managers and agents use when signing and booking bands.
> The Team: what is a manager, agent, talent buyer and promoter? And how do I work with them to grow my career?
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To RSVP and find more info, please visit: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/the-south-sound-music-summit23

Help Guide the Future of Thurston County

Your feedback is so important and Thurston County wants to know: What’s your vision for the future of Thurston County?

Thurston County has launched a new survey to help update vision statements across the plan. The 20-year growth plan for unincorporated Thurston County guides:

· Future land use.
· Housing.
· Economic development.
· Population and employment growth.
· Natural resource protection.
· Capital facilities.

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/LnIc9Ee/Thurston2045?source_id=6bdb7d38-7a52-450b-865e-4568e6b6d3b0&source_type=em&c=P8eT095ZlnXaCXONJfU0h9gQP1R2H4dswtfrRTf_3M8STu9xztglAQ==&mode=preview&source_id=b882ec74-151e-4680-96bf-7bacbe04d291&source_type=em&c=${Contact.encryptedContactId}

Thurston 2045 Survey The Thurston County Comprehensive Plan is getting an update! Tell us what you think.

🛡️📊 Exploring the Impact: Joint Base Lewis-McChord's Economic Influence

Joint Base Lewis-McChord, a cornerstone of our region, wields a colossal economic impact. 🌟 In collaboration with the South Sound Military Community Partnership and The University of Washington Tacoma, the Thurston EDC recently unveiled a comprehensive economic assessment, shedding light on the base's profound contribution to Thurston County's economy.

Gene Angel, our Director of Research and Evaluation, shared insights with South Sound Business Magazine. 🗣️ He emphasized how the base is an economic bedrock for our community, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.



Continue reading here:

Quite an Impact: A Closer Look at the Military's Economic Firepower in the South Sound Putting numbers to the military's economic impact on the region.

🌟 Join us for the Annual Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation Expo 2023: Where Leaders Meet! 🌟

📆 Date: December 7, 2023
🕗 Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🏨 Location: Great Wolf Lodge

🚀 Don't miss this exclusive opportunity for economic insight and innovation! Network with industry leaders, gain invaluable knowledge and help shape our regional economic future.

🎟️ Secure your spot today! Get your tickets and be a catalyst for regional progress.

Get your tickets now👉 bit.ly/23EXPO

🇺🇸 Training for our brave military personnel goes beyond the Hollywood image of drill instructors. Jay's Tactics, right here in Washington State near Joint Base Lewis-McChord, has been a valuable partner in delivering martial arts-inspired combat techniques for the last decade.

With deep respect for our armed forces, Jason Palacios, a former soldier and the owner of Jay's Tactics, has been on a mission to provide essential training for our service members. The journey to secure military contracts is often complex, but the Thurston County Economic Development Council's Washington Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), now known as Washington APEX Accelerator, has played a pivotal role.

Jason emphasizes, "PTAC [now APEX] is a phenomenal program and a great resource for anyone adapting to all the changing regulations in government contracting."

Read the story here:

https://thurstonedc.com/jays-tactics-apex-keep-northwest-soldiers-on-their-toes/

Jay’s Tactics + APEX Keep Northwest Soldiers on their Toes Jay’s Tactics + APEX Keep Northwest Soldiers on their Toes On the left, we have Jason Palacios, a former US Army Soldier who now offers Jiu Jitsu training to the Army Special Forces soldiers at JBLM. Photo courtesy of Jason Palacios. We’ve all seen movies where the camo-clad

Incredible News for City of Olympia - Government

We're thrilled to announce that the City of Olympia has been honored with the 2023 Governor's Smart Communities Award for their innovative project, the "Olympia Armory Creative Campus."

This remarkable initiative not only repurposes a historic site but also involves over 6,500 community stakeholders to transform a former National Guard armory into a vibrant public arts center!

Congratulations to the City of Olympia for their dedication to our community and their unwavering commitment to making our city an even more inspiring place to live.

Read the story here:
https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news/2023-washington-governors-smart-communities-award-recipients-announced/