This year’s summit, themed “Deep Roots, Stronger Futures,” will bring together business leaders, policymakers, and community members to discuss key issues shaping Eastern Oregon’s economy.

With a special focus on our collaboration with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), this year we will be highlighting economic partnerships, cooperative strategies for resource management , and opportunities for sustainable growth across the region.

Registration opens at 7:00 a.m. at Wildhorse Resort & Casino. Attendees will check in and receive materials for the day’s events. Beginning at 7:30 a.m., buses will begin loading for the industry tours, with departure promptly at 7:45 a.m.

Please note that individual transportation is not permitted—bus transportation is required for all tour participants. Early arrival is strongly encouraged to ensure a smooth and timely departure.

Join fellow attendees for a relaxed and engaging evening of networking, conversation, and regional hospitality. The reception offers an opportunity to connect with community leaders, policymakers, and industry partners in an informal setting. Enjoy local refreshments as we celebrate the shared commitment to Eastern Oregon’s future.

Begin your summit experience by checking in at the registration desk, where you will receive event materials and credentials. Doors to the general session will open early to allow ample time for seating, networking with fellow attendees, and preparing for a full day of engaging discussions and presentations. We encourage early arrival to ensure a smooth and welcoming start to the day.

The summit officially opens with a welcome from event organizers and local leaders, followed by a series of keynote presentations and panel discussions. This portion of the program will set the stage for the day’s themes, offering insights into regional priorities, opportunities for collaboration, and strategies for fostering long-term growth and resilience in Eastern Oregon.

Eastern Oregon’s economic future depends on a workforce that is skilled, adaptable, and reflective of its communities. This panel brings together leaders in education, industry, and tribal and rural development to explore strategies for building strong talent pipelines. From aligning training programs with regional needs to expanding access for youth and underserved populations, panelists will discuss what it takes to create meaningful, inclusive employment opportunities. The session will highlight the importance of collaboration, innovation, and investment in shaping a resilient workforce for the region.

Eastern Oregon’s tourism economy is built on a powerful blend of cultural authenticity, iconic events, and natural beauty. This panel will spotlight the region’s tourism success stories—from Pendleton’s renowned festivals to year-round draws like Wildhorse Resort & Casino—and explore how to build on that momentum. Panelists will discuss the role of storytelling, collaboration, and infrastructure investment in growing tourism that benefits local economies and honors regional identity. The session will also address how rural communities can ensure tourism remains a sustainable and inclusive economic engine.

Energy efficiency is vital to building a sustainable and resilient economy in Eastern Oregon and across the state. This panel brings together leaders from federal, state, and local levels to explore current energy initiatives, policy directions, and the infrastructure required to support long-term efficiency. Panelists will discuss how rural communities can overcome barriers to clean energy adoption and how cross-sector partnerships and investments can drive innovation.

As interest in clean and reliable energy grows, this panel will examine the potential for nuclear energy development in Eastern Oregon, particularly Umatilla County. Experts and local leaders will explore economic benefits, safety considerations, and the regulatory pathways required to move forward. Drawing from lessons at sites like Hanford, panelists will discuss how to responsibly and transparently pursue nuclear energy in the region.

The Walla Walla Basin 2050 Plan represents a pioneering collaboration between Umatilla County, Washington State, and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) to ensure long-term water sustainability. This panel will explore how the plan balances agricultural, ecological, and community water needs across state lines. Stakeholders will discuss current challenges, policy dynamics, and the shared vision driving this multi-jurisdictional effort.

This panel explores how traditional First Foods practices and modern agriculture can work together to create a resilient, sustainable food future for Eastern Oregon. Indigenous leaders, farmers, and experts will discuss how cultural knowledge, environmental stewardship, and innovation intersect to protect food systems, water, and land. Panelists will address the impacts of climate change, policy, and investment on agriculture and First Foods restoration.

As wildfires pose growing risks to Oregon’s communities, ecosystems, and economy, effective forest management is more essential than ever. This panel will convene experts from tribal, local, state, and federal levels to discuss proactive approaches to wildfire mitigation and forest health. Panelists will explore how policy, land stewardship, and cross-sector partnerships can build more resilient landscapes and protect both people and resources.