Member News

Economic Development Leaders Gathered in Paducah for Statewide Collaboration Conference

05/01/2025

KAED Spring Event Featured Top Site Selectors, Industry Experts, and Local Officials

Nearly 150 economic development professionals, site selection consultants, local officials, and business leaders convened in Paducah, Kentucky, from April 14–16 for the Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED) Spring Collaboration Conference.

“We were thrilled to host this premier conference in beautiful downtown Paducah,” said Kimberly Rossetti, KAED Chair and Vice President of BE NKY Growth Partnership. “It was an incredible opportunity to bring together some of the country’s top site selection consultants and community leaders to discuss strategies for economic growth and job creation.”

Session highlights included:

  • How Communities Attract the Attention of Site Selection Consultants
  • Retail Recruitment 101: A Framework for Educating Your Community
  • Building Creative Housing Solutions for Your Community
  • Partnerships Addressing the Healthcare Workforce Shortage
  • Using Technology and Social Media to Drive Projects to Your Community
  • Tariffs and Implications for Kentucky’s Economy
  • Nuclear Energy’s Future in Kentucky

Terri Bradshaw, President and CEO of KAED, emphasized the importance of continued professional development in the field. “It is vital for economic development professionals to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape of job creation and business recruitment,” Bradshaw said. “KAED remains committed to providing high-impact learning and networking opportunities across the Commonwealth.”

The event was presented by BFW/Marcum Engineering & Consulting and the Greater Paducah Area Economic Development, with support from numerous regional partners.

View Photos from the Conference
Relive the highlights and moments from Paducah! Click here to view photos from the event.

Looking Ahead: Fall Economic Forum in Covington
If you missed out on the Spring Collaboration Conference, make plans now to join us at the KAED Fall Economic Forum, taking place November 5–7 in Covington, KY. More details and registration information will be available soon.