As one of San Diego's premier business events, the South County EDC’s Annual Economic Summit brings together over 500 business, community, and public leaders.
When: May 1st, 2026
Place: Liberty Station Conference Center
Address: 2600 Laning Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
Time: 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Sponsorship Opportunities Available! Click Here.
Tickets for members are $150, and for non-members are $225
The
South County Economic Development Council’s Annual
Economic Summit brings together business leaders, elected
officials, educators, innovators, and community partners for a dynamic
day of dialogue focused on the future of our region. This year’s
Summit will explore the forces shaping our economy—from infrastructure
investment and transportation planning to technological innovation,
workforce development, and the evolving role of higher education.
Through a series of engaging panel discussions, regional leaders
will examine how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence
are transforming industries, how communities are preparing talent
for the jobs of tomorrow, and how collaboration across sectors helps
drive sustainable economic growth. Attendees will also hear directly
from local mayors and key decision-makers about the investments,
policies, and partnerships guiding the future of South County and
the broader region.
By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the Economic
Summit provides an important platform for meaningful conversation,
shared insight, and forward-thinking solutions designed to strengthen
our communities and ensure the region remains competitive, resilient,
and prepared for the opportunities ahead.
Join the mayors of South County for a dynamic conversation about the future of our region. This panel will explore the investments, initiatives, and partnerships shaping the next phase of growth across our communities. From infrastructure and economic development to housing, workforce opportunities, and quality of life, our local leaders will share their perspectives on how the evolution of each city contributes to the broader success of the region. This discussion will offer insight into the priorities guiding our communities and the collaborative efforts needed to build a resilient and thriving future for South County.
As technology accelerates and global markets continue to evolve, businesses are rethinking nearly every aspect of how they operate. This panel will explore how innovation, digital transformation, and globalization are reshaping workforce strategies, service delivery, and the development of products and solutions. From the rapid rise of artificial intelligence to automation, data-driven decision making, and emerging technologies, companies are adapting to stay competitive in a fast-changing environment. Panelists will share insights on how these tools are transforming industries, influencing hiring and skills development, and creating new opportunities—and challenges—for businesses and communities alike. This conversation will offer a forward-looking perspective on how organizations are preparing for the next wave of technological change and what it means for the future of work and economic growth.
Transportation is the backbone of a thriving regional economy, connecting people to jobs, businesses to markets, and communities to opportunity. This panel will bring together three of the region’s most influential transportation leaders—the Chair of the California Transportation Commission, the CEO of SANDAG, and the CEO of MTS—for an in-depth conversation about the future of mobility in our region. Together, they will explore how transportation systems are evolving in response to population growth, shifting travel patterns, and emerging technologies. The discussion will highlight major infrastructure investments, innovative approaches to transit and mobility, and how data and changing usage trends are shaping planning and decision-making. This conversation will offer valuable insight into how our region is preparing for the transportation needs of tomorrow while ensuring connectivity, sustainability, and economic competitiveness for the communities we serve.
Higher education plays a critical role in shaping the strength and vitality of our communities by preparing students for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow. This panel will explore how local colleges and universities are adapting to a rapidly evolving landscape driven by technological advancement, changing workforce demands, and shifting student expectations. As innovation accelerates and industries transform, educational institutions are rethinking how they deliver learning experiences, integrate emerging technologies, and create pathways that align with the careers of the future. Panelists will discuss how schools are responding to students seeking more flexible, experiential, and career-connected education while ensuring graduates are equipped with the skills, adaptability, and critical thinking needed to succeed in an economy that continues to evolve by the day.
As industries evolve and new technologies reshape the nature of work, workforce development organizations are adapting to better prepare individuals for long-term career success. This panel will bring together community workforce partners who are leading innovative initiatives designed to equip local talent with the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. Panelists will discuss how workforce preparation has expanded beyond traditional training programs to include wraparound services such as career coaching, mentorship, supportive services, and personalized guidance. By addressing barriers to employment and focusing on the whole individual, these organizations are helping create stronger pathways into quality careers while ensuring that our region’s workforce remains competitive, resilient, and ready for the opportunities of the future.
SCEDC Recap from 2025 Economic Summit Courtesy of Energy Media
Tony McCune
Thank You Sponsors!
To sponsor or inquire about how to get involved with the Young Entrepreneur
Academy Program please fill out the form below.
You can also contact Jim O’Callaghan at 619.424.5143 or email jim@southcountyedc.com
710 E. 16th St
#472
National City , CA 91951
P: (619) 424-5143
Email: SCEDC@SouthCountyEDC.com