FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LAS VEGAS — he Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) convened regional business, government, and community leaders at its annual State of Economic Development (SOED), outlining a bold vision for Southern Nevada’s economic future while unveiling new insights, partnerships, and tools designed to strengthen the region’s competitiveness.
The sold-out event underscored how 2026 is poised to be a transformational year for the LVGEA, as the organization continues advancing strategies that diversify Southern Nevada’s economy, attract new industries, and foster long-term regional prosperity.
Attendees heard from nationally recognized leaders who provided perspectives on the evolving global economy and the importance of collaboration in shaping resilient communities.
A centerpiece of the program was a fireside conversation led by former U.S. Congressman Jon C. Porter, a longtime Nevada leader known for bringing together public, private, and civic stakeholders to advance shared regional priorities. Porter moderated a discussion with Gerald E. Rosen, retired Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, whose national reputation for collaborative leadership was shaped by his role mediating the historic City of Detroit bankruptcy. During the conversation, Rosen reflected on the power of partnership, consensus-building, and forward-thinking leadership in navigating complex economic challenges.
“Communities succeed when leaders are willing to come together, set aside differences, and work toward a shared vision,” Rosen said. “The collaboration that defines Southern Nevada’s economic development efforts is exactly the type of approach that positions regions to overcome challenges and build lasting prosperity.”
The program also featured national economic insights from Jason Hickey, President of Hickey & Associates, who discussed global site selection trends and the competitive forces shaping how regions attract investment and talent. “Our organization is fortunate to play a role in helping guide that planning process and support LVGEA as it charts a strong, collaborative path forward,” said Hickey. “LVGEA’s strategic plan will provide a clear, unified framework for how the organization will allocate resources, focus on key industries, and strengthen coordination with partners over the next three years.”
More than an annual update, the State of Economic Development served as a moment of alignment for Southern Nevada’s leaders as LVGEA unveiled insights from its strategic planning process and released its 2025 Annual Report, highlighting the organization’s progress in driving economic diversification and supporting new business investment across the region.
“Southern Nevada continues to prove that collaboration and strategic vision are powerful drivers of economic opportunity,” said Danielle Casey, President & CEO of the LVGEA. “The initiatives we shared today reflect our commitment to positioning the region for sustained growth, strengthening our competitive edge, and ensuring that our economy continues to evolve in ways that benefit businesses, workers, and the entire community.”
During the event, the LVGEA introduced new data resources and interactive tools designed to help stakeholders better understand regional economic trends and make informed decisions about investment, workforce development, and industry growth. In addition, Executive Director of the Governors Office of Economic Development Tom Burns shared impactful outcomes of key small business support programs in the state and highlighted future industry focus areas for Nevada.
By bringing together national experts and regional leaders, the 2026 State of Economic Development reinforced LVGEA’s role as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation, ensuring Southern Nevada remains competitive in attracting high-quality jobs, growing emerging industries, and building a resilient regional economy.
About Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance
The Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) is a public-private partnership dedicated to growing the economy of the Las Vegas region through intentional business attraction, expansion, and connectivity. LVGEA has been designated as one of eight Regional Development Authorities (RDA) in Nevada by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) for 2026-2027. To learn more, visit www.lvgea.org
About the Vegas Chamber
The Vegas Chamber is the broadest-based business association in Nevada, representing small businesses and employers throughout the state. Founded in 1911, its purpose is to cultivate growth and prosperity. In addition to a wide range of benefits to help employers and entrepreneurs thrive and create jobs, the Vegas Chamber is the leading advocate for small businesses in Nevada and is deeply engaged in policy at the local, state, and federal levels. For more information, visit VegasChamber.com
Media Contacts:
Vania Musto; Trosper Public Relations
Email: Vania@TrosperPR.com | Phone: 619.730.8657
