SEDCOR will bring business, government and community leaders to Salem this month for its 2026 Mid-Valley Economic Summit, an annual breakfast event centered on the economic outlook for the Mid-Willamette Valley and the forces shaping business conditions across Oregon.
The summit is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, at the Salem Convention Center’s Willamette Ballroom. Check-in and networking begin at 7:15 a.m., doors open at 7:30 a.m. The program starts at 7:45 a.m. and then will wrap up by 10:30 a.m. The schedule has been expanded to allow for deeper insights and meaningful audience Q&A. The Salem-based economic development organization says the summit is intended to connect local leaders with broader state and national economic trends. This year’s speaker lineup includes Tim Knopp, chief prosperity officer for the Oregon Prosperity Council; Tim Duy, economist at SGH Macro Advisors; Damon Runberg, economist with Business Oregon; Preston Mann, vice president of external affairs for Oregon Business & Industry; and Cara Turano, president and executive director of the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network.
“The Mid-Valley Economic Summit is an opportunity to bring together diverse perspectives from across the region and state,” said Erik Andersson, President of SEDCOR. “By connecting local insights with broader economic trends, we aim to equip leaders with the information they need to make informed decisions and drive continued growth in the Mid-Willamette Valley.”
The summit arrives as employers, local governments and development groups across the Willamette Valley continue to watch interest rates, hiring conditions, business costs and state policy debates that could affect investment decisions in 2026. This year’s program will focus on economic outlook, business conditions and the drivers of growth across the region, while also tying those issues to statewide and national trends.
The Strategic Economic Development Corporation (SEDCOR) is the leading economic development organization for Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley. As a nonprofit serving Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties, SEDCOR works to strengthen the region’s economy by supporting businesses, fostering innovation, and driving strategic investments. Through collaboration with public and private partners, SEDCOR provides business retention and expansion services, workforce development initiatives, and industry-focused networking opportunities. Their mission is to create a thriving, resilient economy by championing the industries and entrepreneurs that drive economic growth in the region.
Pricing posted online is $60 for members or $300 for a table of six, and $80 for nonmembers or $450 for a table of six. Learn more and register online here.
