Join us for the 2026 Economic Summit!
Presented by M&T Bank

Networking & Breakouts:
8:30a - 11:15a | Cinemapolis
Coffee, tea, and baked goods available

Breakout Topics include:

Research Matters: How Cornell research impacts our local economy and supports innovation around the world - Tom Schryver, Executive Director, Center for Regional Economic Advancement, Cornell University
Stronger Together: Lessons from Cross-Sector Collaboration - Cindy Wilcox, Executive Director, Human Services Coalition of Tompkins County
How Resident Sentiment Influences Successful Destination Management - Melaine Rottkamp, President & CEO of Destination Duchess; Nick Helmholdt, Tompkins County Principal Planner, Tourism Program Director; & Jodi LaPierre, PDM, Director of Visitor Experience of Visit Ithaca
Regional Partners – Key Ingredient for Local Success - Kurt Foreman, President & CEO, Ithaca Area Economic Development
Luncheon:
11:30a - 1:30p | Ithaca Downtown Conference Center

State of the Economy:
featuring:
Peggy Coleman, President | Tompkins Chamber

Keynote:
GO SEMI: Connecting Your Work
The Governor’s Office of Semiconductor Expansion, Management, and Integration is a New York State initiative to make New York a global semiconductor hub. This talk will highlight that effort and ways that businesses can connect with this burgeoning industry.

With thanks to:
Presenting Sponsor: M&T Bank
Economic Development Partner: Ithaca Area Economic Development
Keynote Sponsor: Cornell University
Breakout Session Sponsor: Ithaca Downtown Conference Center

A special thanks to our hosts: Cinemapolis & Ithaca Downtown Conference Center!