University of Kentucky Economic Development Collaborative to Host 2026 ‘State of the EDC’ Forum
Annual event will showcase strategic findings and plans to shape future economic development across Kentucky
The University of Kentucky’s Economic Development Collaborative will convene its 2026 “State of the EDC” forum on February 26 in Lexington, bringing together academic leaders, regional partners and economic stakeholders to assess progress and outline future strategies for economic development in the state.
The event, scheduled for the Cornerstone Esports Theater, will present findings from a comprehensive five-year review completed in 2025 and explore how those insights are informing strategic changes to strengthen collaboration and growth.
George Ward, chair of the EDC and associate vice-president for economic development and real estate at the University of Kentucky, said the review has been a pivotal opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s evolution from a collection of ideas into a catalyst for innovation, partnership and opportunity.
The programme will also include an overview of the Advancing Kentucky Together Network, a statewide initiative led by the university and its partners to align resources and expertise to improve economic outcomes and quality of life across the Commonwealth.
Melody Flowers, co-chair of the EDC and assistant vice-president for economic development and real estate, noted that integrating economic development strategies with broader collaborative networks will help build a more prosperous and resilient Kentucky.
A keynote on the state’s economic outlook will be delivered by Michael W. Clark, director of the Center for Business and Economic Research and associate professor of economics at UK’s Gatton College of Business and Economics, followed by a panel on priority industry markets such as biotechnology, agricultural technology, advanced manufacturing and health care.
Attendees will have opportunities for networking, engagement and discussion of the newly released 2025 EDC Annual Report, which will be published in conjunction with the event.
Registration is available for both in-person and virtual participation, with organisers emphasising the forum’s role in fostering dialogue on future economic priorities and shared regional goals.
The event, scheduled for the Cornerstone Esports Theater, will present findings from a comprehensive five-year review completed in 2025 and explore how those insights are informing strategic changes to strengthen collaboration and growth.
George Ward, chair of the EDC and associate vice-president for economic development and real estate at the University of Kentucky, said the review has been a pivotal opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s evolution from a collection of ideas into a catalyst for innovation, partnership and opportunity.
The programme will also include an overview of the Advancing Kentucky Together Network, a statewide initiative led by the university and its partners to align resources and expertise to improve economic outcomes and quality of life across the Commonwealth.
Melody Flowers, co-chair of the EDC and assistant vice-president for economic development and real estate, noted that integrating economic development strategies with broader collaborative networks will help build a more prosperous and resilient Kentucky.
A keynote on the state’s economic outlook will be delivered by Michael W. Clark, director of the Center for Business and Economic Research and associate professor of economics at UK’s Gatton College of Business and Economics, followed by a panel on priority industry markets such as biotechnology, agricultural technology, advanced manufacturing and health care.
Attendees will have opportunities for networking, engagement and discussion of the newly released 2025 EDC Annual Report, which will be published in conjunction with the event.
Registration is available for both in-person and virtual participation, with organisers emphasising the forum’s role in fostering dialogue on future economic priorities and shared regional goals.
