Four Pillars of Progress: Why Attend the East Dallas Economic Summit?

1. East Dallas Works… for Strong and Diverse Communities & Economic Growth.

   East Dallas stands as a vibrant tapestry of diverse communities, and its economic strength is a testament to dedicated local leadership. The 15th Annual Economic Summit will provide an exclusive look at the top initiatives poised to drive economic growth across each East Dallas Council District. Attendees will gain unparalleled insight into the strategic plans being championed by East Dallas’s newest City Council members and the Deputy Mayor Pro Tem – individuals with ambitious visions for their respective districts.

   This critical segment, “Economic Growth and Outlook,” features a distinguished panel including District 14 Councilman David Blewett, District 7 Councilman Adam Bazaldua, District 9 City Councilwoman Paula Blackmon, and District 10 Councilman/Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Adam McGough. Their collective presence ensures a comprehensive discussion on policy directions, urban development projects, and community-focused programs designed to enhance the quality of life and business environment in East Dallas. Understanding these local governmental priorities is crucial for anyone looking to invest, expand, or simply thrive within the community.

2. East Dallas Works… for Opportunities: A Deeper Look at the Texas Economy.

   The economic health of East Dallas is inextricably linked to the broader Texas economy. We are honored to welcome Vice President and Senior Economist Pia Orrenius from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, who will present a vital spotlight on the topic: “Texas Economy Strong but Uncertainty Clouds the Near-Term Outlook.” Her presentation will delve into the underlying factors contributing to Texas’s remarkable economic resilience, from its robust job market to its diversified industry base, while also candidly addressing potential headwinds.

   As we approach an election year, the insights shared by a leading economist from the Federal Reserve will be particularly pertinent. Attendees will gain a nuanced understanding of the macroeconomic forces at play, including inflation trends, interest rate policies, global trade dynamics, and their potential impact on local businesses and investment decisions. This session is designed to equip our community with the knowledge needed to navigate economic shifts and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

3. East Dallas Works… for Growth and Value: Navigating Dallas Real Estate.

   Dallas’s real estate market remains a constant topic of discussion, characterized by its dynamic fluctuations and significant investment potential. This summit offers a unique opportunity to understand its trajectory. We are delighted to welcome back Steve Brown, the esteemed Real Estate Editor for the Dallas Morning News, who will once again share his expert analysis. His session, “Ahhhh, Dallas Real Estate. Where have we been and, more importantly, where are we going?” promises an engaging deep dive into the sector’s performance.

   Steve will meticulously unpack the highs and lows of the recent market, covering residential and commercial trends, affordability challenges, and major development projects shaping the Dallas landscape, with particular attention to East Dallas. More importantly, he will offer forward-looking predictions and strategic insights into “what’s next” for investors, developers, and homeowners. This segment is essential for anyone with a stake in Dallas’s property market, providing clarity and foresight in a complex environment.

4. East Dallas Works… for Entrepreneurs: Inspiring Journeys and Practical Wisdom.

   The entrepreneurial spirit is a driving force behind East Dallas’s economic vitality. This year’s Keynote presentation breaks from tradition, offering an intimate and highly anticipated “fireside chat” – a conversational format designed to foster candid discussion and reveal genuine insights. We are thrilled to host two prominent Dallas entrepreneurs with deep ties to East Dallas, whose personal and professional journeys span diverse industries and whose dynamic partnership extends into their family life.

   Join us for an unfiltered conversation with Alexa Conomos, widely recognized as a former WFAA Anchor, media consultant, and recent podcaster alongside Ron Corning, and her husband, Brandley Anderson, a respected Dallas attorney by day and a successful restaurateur by night (behind popular establishments like Hillside Tavern, Veritas Wine Bar, Boulevardier, and Rapscallion). They will openly discuss the realities of being an entrepreneur, the intricate transition and delicate balance of managing a “day job” alongside an “entrepreneurial endeavor,” and perhaps even share a few cherished “inside secrets” about their vibrant life together as parents to three young children. This chat promises not only inspiration but also practical wisdom on managing ambition, family, and success in the entrepreneurial world. Attendees are guaranteed to leave with invaluable takeaways and a fresh perspective on balancing aspirations with reality.

Community Collaboration: Our Valued Sponsors

The success of the GEDCC Economic Summit is made possible through the generous support of our community partners. We extend our sincere gratitude to all our sponsors, whose commitment underscores the collaborative spirit thriving in East Dallas.

• Presenting Sponsor: CC Young
• Gold Sponsors: Oncor, Comerica Bank
• Media Sponsor: Daltxrealestate.com
• Silver Sponsor: Veritex Community Bank
• Bronze Sponsor: Bishop Lynch High School
• Keynote Sponsor: Hillside Tavern

Sponsorship opportunities remain available at various levels, including $1,500, $2,500, and $5,000, offering businesses a prime opportunity to showcase their commitment to the East Dallas community and gain significant visibility. Additionally, Host Tables are available for $500, providing an excellent way for organizations to engage directly with attendees and leaders.

Summit Leadership

The 2019 GEDCC Economic Summit is expertly co-chaired by two distinguished members of the East Dallas business community: Richard Moore with Lakewood Title and Darlene Ellison with Veritex Community Bank. Their leadership ensures a high-quality event that addresses the most pressing economic issues facing our region.