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Midwest Summit: Economic Outlook - February 2025
Thursday, February 20, 2025 (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM) (CST)
Description
Can't make it to West Fargo?
Tune into the livestream
Thursday, Feb. 20 at 8 a.m.
The Midwest Economic Outlook Summit offers an exceptional platform for business leaders, policymakers and community stakeholders to engage in meaningful conversations about the region's economic future. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in interactive discussions by asking questions on key economic issues facing the Midwest.
Expert-led panel discussions and industry insights will dive into critical topics, providing in-depth analysis of current trends and opportunities across various sectors. These discussions will feature distinguished speakers from banking, real estate, technology and more, offering diverse perspectives on the challenges and strategies shaping the region’s economy.
In addition to gaining valuable knowledge, the event provides ample networking opportunities, allowing business and community leaders to build relationships, foster collaboration and explore new avenues for partnership. Whether you’re looking to navigate economic shifts, gain knowledge or grow your network, this summit is the ideal space for fostering growth and shaping the future of the Upper Midwest.
Introduction
Shannon Full, President and CEO, FMWF Chamber
Panel | State Economies Insights
Rich Garman, Director, Economic Development and Finance, ND Dept. of Commerce
MN Representative
Moderated by Shannon Full, President and CEO, FMWF Chamber
SPONSOR MESSAGE
Ray Grefsheim, Fargo Market Leader, Bremer Bank
Keynote speaker
Matthew W. Finn, CFA
Chief Economist, 1834, a Division of Old National Bank
Matthew will deliver an in-depth economic forecast for the region, highlighting trends and providing strategic guidance for businesses and policymakers to navigate the future.
About Matthew Finn
With over 30 years of experience in trust and investment management, Finn is the Chief Economist at 1834. He leads the company's economic outlook, asset allocation guidance and portfolio management.
Finn has volunteered with the CFA Institute for over 20 years, grading CFA exams and contributing to the profession. He regularly speaks at conferences on the U.S. economy and has mentored and led teams at Old National.
Finn holds a B.S. in Economics from the University of Missouri and is a graduate of the ABA National Trust School and Northwestern’s ABA National Graduate Trust School. He is also a CFA® charter holder and a member of the CFA Institute.
SPONSOR MESSAGE
Paul Matthys, President and CEO, Cass County Electric Cooperative
Panel | Strategies for Growth in Investments
Insights across banking, housing and private equity
Kodee Furst, Director, 50 South Capital
Michael Neal, Senior Fellow, Urban Institute
Julie Whitney, Senior Vice President, Bremer Bank
Moderated by Kathryn Birkeland, Ronald G. and Kaye S. Olson Dean, College of Business, North Dakota State University
Closing Remarks
Shannon Full, President and CEO, FMWF Chamber
PROGRAM CONCLUDES
Become a sponsor of a Midwest Summit
Our sponsors receive recognition and visibility at the event in front of hundreds of local, regional and national leaders and businesses; on the livestream cast across the Upper Midwest via The Forum's 20+ regional news sites; on The Chamber's promotional materials and more. Contact Darren at ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com to support this series and become recognized as an engaged and leading business.
Want to learn more about the Midwest Summit series or see recaps of past events?
Sponsors
Premier Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
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Media Sponsors
Silver Sponsor
Corporate Sponsor
Venue Sponsor
Event Production Sponsor
Event Photography
In-Person | $45 members | $55 not-yet-members
Day-of Registration | $55 members | $65 not-yet-members
Livestream | No cost
1805 Main Ave W
West Fargo, 58078
Parking: From Main Ave, turn south onto 15th St NW, then turn right onto the Avenue of Flags, heading west. Watch for event signage, which will guide you to the parking area and entrance.
Chamber Events
Midwest Summit
Public Policy