The 2026 Tahoe Economic Summit, hosted by the Tahoe Prosperity Center, is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and catalyze change to support our community, quality of life, regional economy, and environment.
This year’s conference focuses on accelerating Tahoe’s innovation ecosystem and features local economic experts, Tahoe-based entrepreneurs, and leading policy and change-makers. We will discuss creative ideas, insight, and inspiration to leave you empowered for success.
Keynote Speakers will present a macroeconomic picture of the primary drivers affecting our region and how you can be prepared for future changes. Breakout group speakers will focus on industry expertise to from business innovation and expansion, to housing and transportation success stories.
Be a part of the thriving community that drives Tahoe’s economic resilience and celebrate our regional partnerships that make Tahoe unique and special.
Sponsorship offers strong visibility, meaningful community engagement, and direct connection to regional leaders and decision-makers.
| Time | Session | Description | Speaker | Headshot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Program | ||||
| 8:30 - 9:45 AM | Registration, Networking & Opening Remarks | Check in and connect with fellow attendees, sponsors, and community partners, followed by welcome remarks to open the day. | Laura Metune, TPC Board |
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| 9:45 - 10:00 AM | Vision for Tahoe’s Economy | Recognition of partners and framing for the day. | Sarah Schmidt, Executive Director, Tahoe Prosperity Center |
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| Keynote: Bi-State Economic Outlook | ||||
| 10:00 - 11:30 AM | Keynote Session |
Kate Gordon is a national leader at the intersection of climate, energy, and economic development, with deep experience from her time in the Biden-Harris Administration and as a senior advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom. She will share insights on economic trends shaping California, including affordability, housing, and the impacts of climate and wildfire on local economies. Dr. Fred Steinmann is Director of the University Center for Economic Development and lead for Nevada’s EV Materials and Lithium Tech Hub. His work examines how electrification, advanced manufacturing, and evolving workforce dynamics are reshaping Northern Nevada’s economy. |
Kate Gordon, Former Senior Advisor, Governor Gavin Newsom; Former Senior Official, Biden-Harris Administration Dr. Fred Steinmann, Director, University Center for Economic Development; Lead, Nevada EV Materials and Lithium Tech Hub |
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| 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM | Lunch & Networking | Informal networking and community connection. | ||
| 12:45 - 1:00 PM | Afternoon Kickoff | Overview of breakout sessions and transition. | Sarah Schmidt |
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| Breakout Sessions | ||||
| Round 1: 1:00 - 2:00 PM | Round 2: 2:15 - 3:15 PM | ||||
| 1:00 - 2:00 PM 2:15 - 3:15 PM |
From Idea to Expansion: Navigating Business Growth in Tahoe | Access to capital, navigating regulations, scaling across state lines, and lessons learned from real Tahoe businesses. |
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| 1:00 - 2:00 PM 2:15 - 3:15 PM |
Connecting Housing, Transportation, and Opportunity in the Tahoe Basin | Housing affordability trends, commuting impacts, transit solutions, broadband connectivity, and strategies for a more connected economy. |
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| 1:00 - 2:00 PM 2:15 - 3:15 PM |
Environmental Innovation & Circular Forest Economy | Forest health, biomass utilization, mass timber, workforce pathways, and sustainable economic development opportunities. |
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| 3:15 - 3:30 PM | Transition Break | Return to the general session. | ||
| 3:30 - 3:45 PM | Closing Remarks | Key takeaways and next steps. | ||
| 3:45 - 4:45 PM | Networking Reception | Continued connection and engagement. | ||
| Tahoe Chamber GoLocal Expo | ||||
| 4:00 PM | Early Access Networking Hour | |||
| 5:00 PM | General Admission | |||
Jobs Peak
Mount Tallac
Monument Peak Small Business Partners
