May 8, 2025 3:20 a.m.

The Umpqua Economic Development Partnership is partnering with business leaders, policymakers and community stakeholders from Douglas, Coos, Curry, Jackson and Josephine counties for the second annual Southwestern Oregon Economic Summit, happening next week.

Drew Winkelmaier has the details: “Drew4” Q: News Radio 93-9 FM and 1240 KQEN

It will be held May 13th-15th at Seven Feathers Casino Resort in Canyonville. The theme for the event is, “Preparing Southwestern Oregon’s Economy for the Future”.

UEDP Executive Director Brian Prawitz said, “Collaborating throughout our region is one of the most important things we can do to improve our economic prospects in southwest Oregon”. Prawitz said, “The SW Oregon Economic Summit is an example of what collaboration looks like”.

A release said more than 200 people are expected to gather for the summit, with panels focusing on such topics as understanding the next-gen work force, harnessing AI, workforce housing solutions, the power of connection, the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port, and community visioning.

The SW Oregon Economic Summit kicks off with a series of tours on Tuesday, May 13th:

*The Coos Bay Tour includes a visit to the South Coast Accelerator’s business incubator, presentations on the Southwest Oregon Innovation Hub, plans for the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport, the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port Project and more.

*The Douglas County Tour begins with a tour of Orenco Systems in Sutherlin, a presentation on Sutherlin High School’s CTE program, and visits to North River Boats and 7robotics

*In Josephine County, attendees will take a walking tour of downtown Grants Pass, visit the Dutch Bros roasting facility and learn more about the investments in entrepreneurism.

Registration for the two-day summit is $200 per person. Tour tickets are $50 each. Registration will close this Friday. For more information, go to: www.sworegoneconomicsummit.com