The Coachella Valley Economic Partnership (CVEP) is set to host its 20th annual Greater Palm Springs Summit on November 19th. The event will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Agua Caliente Casino & Resort in Rancho Mirage.
This year's theme, "Data. Opportunity. Growth.", focuses on regional economic opportunities and strategic goals for sustainable growth in the Coachella Valley. Laura James, CVEP Interim CEO, stated, “We chose Data. Opportunity. Growth. as the theme as it aligns with the core goals of our updated economic development strategy, and reflects our vision for an inclusive and prosperous Coachella Valley economy.” She added that the event would showcase significant changes over the past three decades and highlight opportunities for elevating the local economy sustainably.
A special award will be presented to Dick Oliphant in recognition of his contributions to CVEP and the Coachella Valley. As one of CVEP's founders and a board member for over 30 years, Oliphant's leadership has had a lasting impact on the community.
Laura Hope, Interim Superintendent/President of College of the Desert, will report on the college's economic impact during the summit. The event will also feature a panel titled "Born Here, Drawn to Here," moderated by Bansree Parikh, President of Bank of America Inland Empire. Panelists include Armando Alvarado and Grace Garner from Coachella Valley, along with Marisa “Ritzy” Estrada Rivera and Jim Gomes who have moved to the area.
The summit is expected to attract more than 500 business, civic, and education leaders from across the region. It provides an opportunity for attendees to hear from key influencers and decision-makers.
Sponsors include Presenting Sponsor College of the Desert; Platinum Sponsors Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and Hunter | Johnsen; and Gold Sponsor Bank of America.
The schedule includes breakfast and networking from 8:00 a.m., followed by programming until approximately 11:00 a.m. Registration details are available at cvep.com or by contacting CVEP directly.
Established in 1994, CVEP aims to drive economic transformation in Greater Palm Springs through business development initiatives focused on entrepreneurship and industry diversification.