Federal Economic Development Forum
Building Tomorrow's Economic Foundation: Innovation │Infrastructure │Investment │International
March 18-20, 2012
Washington, DC Metro Area

http://www.iedconline.org/FederalForum/index.html

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Federal Economic Development Forum Luncheon: American Auto Communities
Monday, March 19
12:00 - 1:45 pm

Keynote Speaker: Jay Williams, Director, Office of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers

American auto communities have felt a disproportionate impact from the Great Recession. Following the near collapse of the American auto industry, and the subsequent federal bailouts that saved it, President Obama created the Office of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers. The "Auto Czar," as the position has been referred to in the media, is former Mayor of Youngstown, Ohio, Jay Williams. No stranger to the conditions facing auto communities and workers today, Director Williams will speak to attendees about the important work of his office and how it impacts auto communities and workers far beyond the city limits of Detroit. Job growth in the industry, from manufacturing to auto parts suppliers located throughout the country, has been positive. Over 100,000 jobs related to the auto industry were created in 2011. Following a recent trip visiting auto communities, Director Williams commented on his vision for the future of American auto communities:

"(The Obama Administration) continue to believe that encouraging innovation in the auto industry and supporting the revitalization of auto communities are crucial to re-building America's middle class."

Also during the luncheon, IEDC will honor the recipients of this year's Federal and Congressional Leadership in Economic Development Award winners. This year's recipients are:

Phillip Singerman
Federal Leadership in Economic Development

Rep. Pete Visclosky (D-IN)
Congressional Leadership in Economic Development

ABOUT THE FEDERAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM:
Federal policies and programs are continually changing to address the effects of the Great Recession and build U.S. global competitiveness. How can you navigate and capture federal resources to grow innovation and investment in your community? The Obama administration is pushing global trade, innovation and entrepreneurship as the keys to boosting the American economy. Meanwhile, economic developers play a front-line role in connecting Washington policies and programs with local and state efforts to create jobs and increase investment. You'll hear top national officials, thought leaders and senior program administrators address how federal resources can help your community strengthen its infrastructure, attract private investment, foster innovation and integrate globally.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
• Economic developers focused on federal policy
• Federal, state, and local government officials and policymakers
• Non-profits and associations
• Venture capitalists
• Private sector stakeholders
• Universities and research institutions
• Members of state and local economic development organizations