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2026 Leadership Summit

2026 Leadership Summit
Navigating the Now, Shaping the Next: Leadership that Evolves

As economic development continues to transform at record speed, leaders across every career stage must adapt quickly to stay ahead. Join us March 1-3 in Washington, D.C., for the 2026 Leadership Summit! 

IEDC's Leadership Summit will bring together professionals from emerging talent to seasoned executives to advocate for policy priorities and shape the future of our field. With timely, specialized tracks, attendees will also walk away with strategies and insights to thrive in today's rapidly evolving landscape. 

If you require accessibility accommodations please contact Carissa Merritt at cmerritt@iedc.org and your message will be responded to in 48 business hours. By interacting with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) or its agents, attending its events, or using its materials, I acknowledge and grant full permission for IEDC to use my likeness, information, photographs, recordings, or other forms of media in its publications without payment or further consideration. 

I understand that all media produced by IEDC, its agents, or contractors will become the property of the IEDC and authorize them to edit, exhibit, publish, or distribute it for any lawful purpose. I waive any right to inspect or approve the finished product where my likeness appears.
When
3/1/2026 - 3/3/2026

Program

   

Sunday, 01 March 2026

Description
Navigating U.S. Federal Policy and Engaging with Congress

With so much happening in Washington that affects economic developers, this session will get you up to speed on the latest federal policy issues shaping our field. Learn practical tools for effective advocacy and how to make the most of your meetings with members of Congress and their staff. Presented by: Jeffrey Brooks, Partner, Adams and Reese

Please note: This session is open to IEDC members only. Non-members are encouraged to select the membership/combo registration for access.
Time
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
11:00 AM

Open to IEDC members only. Non-members are encouraged to select the membership/combo registration for access.
Time
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
12:30 PM

Monday, 02 March 2026

Description
Time
9:45 AM - 11:45 AM
9:45 AM

Tuesday, 03 March 2026

Description
Time
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
7:00 AM

This visionary space is the result of the Amazon HQ2 package with the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the increasing national security needs and digital innovation market expansion. Including a public-private partnership between George Mason University and industry which brings together community engagement and economic vitality to the Northern Virginia and Washington D.C. region. Hear from Mason EnterpriseTM, a one-of-a-kind transformational hub of innovation and entrepreneurship (and IEDC Excellence in Economic Development award winner) offering support, training, partnerships and funding on how they work with state, local and federal government partners along with start-ups, faculty, students, the community and more to bring this idea to life, making an impact in the D.C. region and beyond. During the tour you will learn about the how and why behind the vision and development of this space along with the lessons learned since opening.
Time
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
10:00 AM