Economic summit to meet in Sandpoint

By Cameron Rasmusson
Reader Staff

Navigating the tricky world of the Bonner County economy is no easy task. A summit, entitled “What’s Happening Up North?,” aims to clear those murky horizons with a comprehensive look at the local economy.

Set for Nov. 5 at Sandpoint Technology Center, 130 McGhee Rd., the summit will feature economic experts evaluating local financial footing and suggesting priorities for improvement. Be sure to RSVP your spot at the conference by Nov. 1—simply visit whatshappeningupnorth.org to register.

The summit will also recognize local businesses like Kochava and Quest that have weathered some tough years through innovative thinking. One of the event organizers, Megan Lawson of Headwaters Economics, hopes attendees will walk away with greater confidence and insight into their business decisions.

“Our vision is that participants walk away with more connections to others in the business community and an awareness of the support available for small businesses and entrepreneurs,” Lawson said. “The workshop is structured to encourage discussion among speakers, panelists, and participants, so we’re hoping for a frank conversation of how to build on the area’s many strengths and address some of the challenges.”

To that end, the workshop has lined up an impressive speaker roster, including Jeffrey Sayer, director of the Idaho Department of Commerce. Representatives of Kochava, Quest Aircraft and Sandpoint Airport will also weigh in on the advantages of doing business in North Idaho.

“There are a lot of great economic development efforts afoot, and we wanted to provide a venue for sharing ideas across the local business ecosystem,” Lawson said. “People live in Northern Idaho because it is a great place to live, and this workshop will also highlight why it is a great place to do business.”

The event is free, but organizers request that attendees RSVP by the Nov. 1 deadline. Visit whatshappeningupnorth.org to confirm your seat and see the full roster of speakers and presentations.