The WESTMARC 2025 Economic Development Summit takes place tomorrow, May 13, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Grand Canyon University. This year’s summit will spotlight the West Valley’s rise as a top-tier destination for tourism and entertainment, emphasizing its diverse attractions—from major national sporting events to performances by internationally renowned music artists—that collectively draw millions of visitors from across the country to Metro Phoenix.

This event brings together industry leaders, developers, city officials, and tourism professionals for a morning of insightful dialogue and strategic collaboration.

“The 2025 Summit will shine a spotlight on the innovation and opportunity defining the West Valley,” said Sintra Hoffman, WESTMARC’s President and CEO. “From regional tourism to micro-downtowns, we’re exploring what’s next in economic development.”

Keynote Presentation: “Arizona Tourism—Driving Growth & Opportunity”

Ron Price, President & CEO of Visit Phoenix, will deliver a compelling keynote on the state’s tourism industry—one of Arizona’s most powerful economic engines. Price will unveil the latest data on visitor trends, explore marketing and legislative influences, and share how Arizona competes nationally as a destination powerhouse.

Panel Discussion: Elevating the West Valley’s Tourism Impact

Moderated by Ron Price, this expert panel features Phoenix Raceway President, Latasha Causey, Arizona Major Events Host Committe President & CEO, Jay Parry, Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprises Director of Public Affairs, Treena Parvello, and Vai Resort SVP, Howard Weiss. Together, they will discuss strategic collaboration, key venue development, and unlocking the West Valley’s full potential as a destination for large-scale events.

TED Talk: Market Signaling & Business Attraction in the West Valley

Jeanine Jerkovic, Economic Development Director for City of Surprise, will examine how market cues and strategic business recruitment are fueling the rise of vibrant micro-downtowns. Her talk will explore the power of placemaking, public-private partnerships, and community identity in shaping growth.

Multi-City Showcase: Unlocking the West Valley’s Tourism & Entertainment Potential

Tailored for commercial brokers and developers, this showcase will spotlight high-impact investment opportunities and premier entertainment assets across the region. Attendees will gain unique insights into how cities are leveraging events, retail, and experience-driven spaces to elevate economic growth.

The Economic Development Summit will take place at the Grand Canyon University Arena located at 3300 W Camelback Rd., Phoenix AZ 85017. Event parking will be available in the main parking garage off 33rd Ave & Camelback Rd. Registration for the event will be open until May 9, 2025.

Get more information and register here.

WESTMARC—the Western Maricopa Coalition—is a public-private partnership of 15 communities, the business community and the educational sector in the West Valley of the Metro Phoenix region. WESTMARC was formed in 1990 to address important issues facing the West Valley’s economic prosperity.  Through WESTMARC members connections, collaboration and action, this region is now home to 1.8 million residents, a thriving business community, an abundance of education options, and world-class sports and entertainment amenities.