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2025 OEDA Annual Summit
October 15–17, 2025 | John S. Knight Center | Akron, Ohio
About the Summit
The 2025 OEDA Annual Summit will convene more than 500 economic development professionals for three energizing days of learning, inspiration, and meaningful connection, right in the heart of downtown Akron. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting out, the Summit is designed to help you sharpen your skills, expand your network, and amplify your impact.
Highlights of this year’s Summit include:
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30+ Breakout Sessions organized into six dynamic tracks:
Energy & Infrastructure, Housing, Workforce Development, Technology & Tools, Real Estate Development, and Principles & Practices. -
Content for All Levels: Each track features sessions for beginner, intermediate, and advanced practitioners, plus focused spotlights on Akron and Northeast Ohio innovations.
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5 Experiential Tours / Learning Labs showcasing real-world projects and community partnerships.
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10 high-impact IGNITE presentations—quick, powerful talks that spark new thinking.
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6 AMplify Talks are designed to share bold ideas in short, focused formats happening in the mornings.
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Inspiring General Sessions and Keynotes featuring statewide and national voices in economic development.
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Engaging Networking + Social Events that foster collaboration and community—like the Chairman’s Reception, Women in ED, and the always-popular Late Night Trivia.
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Pre-Conference Activities on October 14, including our first-ever community service project, a golf scramble, and early arrival tours.
About the Host City – Akron, Ohio
Akron, situated in Summit County, is a dynamic city in Northeast Ohio, renowned for its rich industrial heritage, innovation, and ongoing revitalization. Once known as the “Rubber Capital of the World,” Akron has evolved into a hub for education, healthcare, and technology, with institutions like the University of Akron playing a pivotal role. Summit County blends urban energy with scenic beauty, offering vibrant downtowns, historic neighborhoods, and access to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. As part of the larger Northeast Ohio region, Akron benefits from a diverse economy, a strong manufacturing base, and collaborative efforts to drive growth and innovation across the region’s cities and communities.
About The Venue – John S. Knight Center
The John S. Knight Center, situated in downtown Akron, Ohio, is a premier venue for conventions, trade shows, and community events. Opened in June 1994, the facility spans 123,000 square feet, featuring 43,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 12,000-square-foot banquet hall, a conference center, and 18 meeting rooms. Named after the esteemed newspaper publisher and editor John S. Knight, the center has become an iconic part of Akron’s cityscape, attracting a diverse array of events and attendees. Its strategic location and versatile spaces make it a central hub for both local and regional gatherings.
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Where to Stay
OEDA has secured room blocks at three preferred hotels for the 2025 OEDA Annual Summit—all offering comfort, convenience, and easy access to the John S. Knight Center.
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BLU-Tique Hotel (Downtown Akron): Just steps from the venue, this boutique hotel blends artistic flair with a jazz-inspired atmosphere—perfect for guests seeking a stylish and distinctly local experience.
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Courtyard by Marriott Akron Downtown (0.4 miles away): A modern, business-friendly hotel featuring spacious rooms, an on-site bistro, and walkable access to downtown dining and nightlife.
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Hilton Garden Inn Akron (short drive): Located just outside the city center, this hotel offers a quieter stay with full-service amenities including a restaurant, indoor pool, and proximity to major highways.
Each hotel provides a unique experience while keeping you close to all the action of the Summit.
Special room rates for Summit attendees at the following hotels:
| Hotel Name | Room Rate | Cut-Off Date | Reservation Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| BLU-Tique | $199.00 | 9/15/2025 | Book Here |
| Courtyard Marriott | $152.00 | 9/21/2025 | Book Here |
| Hilton Garden Inn | $145.00 | 10/1/2025 | Book Here |
Become a Sponsor
Becoming a sponsor of the 2025 OEDA Annual Summit is a powerful way to connect with Ohio’s top economic development professionals and demonstrate your organization’s commitment to growth, innovation, and community impact. With more than 500 attendees expected and visibility across OEDA’s statewide network, sponsors receive recognition through signage, programs, the Whova app, social media, and more—along with valuable opportunities to speak, exhibit, and engage directly with participants. Whether you’re supporting a breakout track, networking event, or becoming a Presenting Sponsor, your investment helps shape Ohio’s economic future while positioning your brand at the center of the state’s premier development event.
2025 Annual Summit – Sponsorship Brochure
Have questions or want to discuss opportunities? Contact Jason Kester, Summit & Sponsorship Chair at jkester@agracel.com or David Zak, OEDA President & CEO at dzak@ohioeda.com to learn more.
Visiting Akron
Akron, Ohio, offers a diverse array of attractions catering to various interests. Art enthusiasts can explore the Akron Art Museum, which showcases contemporary works in a striking building that combines historic and modern architecture. History buffs will appreciate Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, a grand estate featuring a Tudor Revival manor house and beautifully landscaped gardens. For family-friendly outings, the Akron Zoo provides an opportunity to observe over 1,000 animals across 35 acres of exhibits. Outdoor enthusiasts can venture into the nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park, offering scenic trails, waterfalls, and the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Additionally, the Akron Civic Theatre, an atmospheric-style theater built in 1929, hosts a variety of performances and events, adding to the city’s rich cultural scene.
