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.
A full day of Visionaries and Innovators
Welcoming Remarks
Sarah Schmidt
Sarah Schmidt is the Executive Director of the Tahoe Prosperity Center, bringing more than 20 years of experience in sustainable and inclusive community development. A collaborative leader and skilled facilitator, she is known for aligning diverse stakeholders and helping communities turn shared strategies into action.
Keynote Speakers
Kate Gordon, CEO of California Forward. A national leader at the intersection of climate, energy, and economic development, Kate brings deep experience from her time in the Biden-Harris Administration and as a senior advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom—helping shape strategies that connect climate action with economic resilience.
At the Summit, Kate will share insights on the statewide and national economic trends shaping California, including affordability, housing, and the increasing impacts of climate and wildfire on local economies. Her work focuses on how these forces are playing out across regions—and what it means for communities like Tahoe, where rising costs, workforce challenges, and environmental pressures intersect.
Dr. Frederick Steinmann, University of Nevada, Reno. As Director of the University Center for Economic Development and lead for Nevada’s federally designated EV Materials and Lithium Tech Hub, Dr. Steinmann is at the forefront of understanding how major macroeconomic shifts—like electrification—are reshaping Northern Nevada’s economy.
From the rise of advanced manufacturing to evolving workforce and supply chain dynamics, his work highlights both the opportunities and challenges facing our region—and what they mean for communities like Tahoe.
Join Us at the Go Local Business Expo, Lake Tahoe’s largest networking, marketing, and community-focused business event. Connect with 120+ local businesses representing a wide range of industries and 1,500+ community members in one dynamic, high-energy setting. |