FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2026
Media Contact: Vania Musto; Trosper Public Relations
Email: [email protected] | Phone: 619.730.8657
LAS VEGAS — The 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.
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About Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance
The Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) is the Regional Development Authority for Southern Nevada, dedicated to diversifying and strengthening the region’s economy. For nearly 70 years, LVGEA has partnered with municipalities, businesses, and investors to create high-wage jobs, attract global companies, and foster economic resiliency. LVGEA has been designated one of eight Regional Development Authorities (RDAs) in Nevada by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) for 2025–2026. By promoting Southern Nevada as an ideal place to live, work, and do business, LVGEA drives initiatives that benefit residents and the overall community. For more information, visit www.lvgea.org.
