Future Forward Summit and Expo: Pushing Southern West Virginia’s Economic Growth

Economic Outlook, Housing, Downtown Revitalization, and Small Business Opportunities

BECKLEY, WV – Excitement fills the air in southern West Virginia as the Future Forward Summit and Expo gears up to illuminate pathways toward economic revitalization. Set to take place at the Beckley Raleigh County Convention Center, this pivotal event promises to serve as a focal point for visionary discussions and strategic insights driving the region towards a prosperous future.

The Economic Outlook: An Insightful Perspective

On April 23, Dr. John Deskins, Director of the Bureau of Business & Economic Research at West Virginia University, will share the Southern West Virginia Economic Outlook. Without divulging specific findings, Deskins emphasizes the potential for the New River Gorge Region, highlighting its abundant energy resources as a compelling advantage for attracting data center campuses. “The advent of artificial intelligence presents a growing opportunity that our state must seize aggressively,” Deskins noted. “With increased jobs, incomes, and tax revenues at stake, the region stands on the brink of transformative development.”

Pillars of Progress: The Event’s Focus

Commencing on April 22 and continuing into April 23, the Future Forward event will harness the collective expertise of invited speakers to explore four crucial developmental pillars: housing, downtown development, small business growth, and the economic outlook. The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) and Beckley Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce (BRCCC) have orchestrated a series of stimulating discussions aimed at formulating actionable recommendations for regional advancement.

Proactive Planning: Community-Driven Development

“Data centers ignite both enthusiasm and trepidation within our communities,” comments Jina Belcher, Executive Director of NRGRDA. “Our commitment to site selection must remain proactive and responsible, ensuring any potential projects align with community values, infrastructure capacity, and long-term goals. We invite everyone to engage in this critical dialogue at the Future Forward Summit, as our region’s potential is on the rise. Innovation, collaboration, and progress await us in southern West Virginia.”

Spotlight Sessions: Expert-Led Dialogues

The event schedule is brimming with insightful sessions, including:

• Housing Modernization Needs – Patrick Bowen, President of Bowen National Research, will address new and existing housing challenges.
• Downtown Development and Revitalization – Moderated by Jina Belcher, this session will delve into strategies for urban rejuvenation.
• Small Business Development – Led by Judy Moore of NRGRDA and the West Virginia Hive, focusing on entrepreneurship and growth.

Additionally, on April 23, West Virginia State Senator Brian Helton (R-Fayette) will host a dialogue with state legislators and industry leaders, fostering governmental and industrial synergy.

Networking Opportunities: Bridging Policy and Industry

Michelle Rotellini, President/CEO of BRCCC, has announced the formal opening of the “Future Forward: Growing Our Economy, Strengthening Our Community” event. Kicking off on Tuesday, April 22, at 3:30 p.m., the Downtown Development and Revitalization Session will be followed by a Legislative Reception from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., providing unique networking opportunities with policymakers and industry leaders. A comprehensive day of dynamic forums, educational exchanges, and networking is planned for April 23.

For further details on the Future Forward Summit and Expo, visit Future Forward Summit.

Note: This article is inspired by content from Lootpress. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.

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