(Chico, CA) – Business, government, and community leaders will converge at California State University, Chico, for the 25th Annual Economic Forecast Conference on Thursday, January 9, 2025. Hosted by the North State Planning and Development Collective, this premier event will take place at the Bell Memorial Union from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by a Networking Reception.
This year’s conference, sponsored in part by Mike Donnelly – Coldwell Banker Commercial, will provide vital insights into the economic trends shaping the North State. Highlights include the 2025 North State Economic Forecast delivered by renowned economist Dr. Robert Eyler, along with panels and demonstrations on artificial intelligence, regional success stories, and more.
Mike Donnelly and Coldwell Banker Commercial are longstanding advocates for economic development and job creation across Northern California.
Featured Speakers
Dr. Robert Eyler, President, Economic Forensics and Analytics, and Sonoma State University Dean, will present the 2025 Economic Forecast. Dr. Eyler is an expert in regional economics and monetary policy with over two decades of experience.
Dr. Abbas Attarwala, Associate Professor of Computer Science at CSU Chico, will discuss innovative applications of technology in education and workforce development.
Mark Birtha, President of Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Sacramento, will share insights on driving economic growth through large-scale hospitality and entertainment ventures.
Tonya Dowse, Executive Director of Siskiyou Economic Development, will highlight successful strategies for fostering business investment in rural regions.
Nancy Hill, Executive Director of Shasta County Arts Council, will emphasize the intersection of arts and economic vitality.
Jonathan Kusel, Executive Director of Sierra Institute for Community and Environment, will discuss balancing economic and environmental sustainability in rural communities.
Kate Mahar, AVP of Strategic Initiatives at Shasta College, will explore educational innovations addressing equity gaps in the North State.
Glenda Nelson, Tribal Chairperson of the Estom Yumeka Maidu Tribe, will share her vision for advancing tribal sovereignty and economic opportunities.
Carolyn Pena, Chief Technology Architect at Tri Counties Bank, will delve into digital transformation and its impact on regional businesses.
Steve Perez, President of CSU Chico, will provide an institutional perspective on education’s role in economic resilience.
Jonathan Porat, California’s Chief Technology Officer, will discuss state-level innovation and digital governance.
Dennis Ramirez, Chairman of Mechoopda Tribal Council, will share efforts to enhance housing, healthcare, and education for underserved communities.
Tyler Smith, CEO of Matson & Isom Technology Consulting, will highlight leveraging technology to empower small businesses and nonprofits.
John Truitt, Executive Director of Viva Downtown Redding, will discuss urban revitalization through creative collaborations.
Dr. Elka Walsh, Transformation Lead at Microsoft Worldwide Education, will showcase strategies for equipping students and communities for a digital future.
The Economic Forecast Conference is an unparalleled opportunity to gain actionable insights, foster connections, and contribute to the economic advancement of Northern California.
For registration and additional details, please visit https://www.csuchico.edu/about/projects-initiatives/nspdc/news-events/economic-conference.shtml or contact the North State Planning and Development Collective.