Naturally Lewis Economic Development Conference

June 12, 2024 | 3 Willows Event Center | 8am-4:30pm

Dear Lewis County

Welcome to the Naturally Lewis Economic Development Conference! Here, we're talking about grassroots growth and a sustainable future. Themed "Dear Lewis County," the 2024 Naturally Lewis Economic Development Conference is a testament to the community that has served us. From its rich history to its unmatched potential, this community has served us the way we have all served it. At this year's conference we are thanking Lewis County for everything it has done for us, and embracing the future we're working towards.

The Naturally Lewis Economic Development Conference is for business and community leaders, entrepreneurs and small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and municipal leaders in Northern New York. We're talking about rural in the big picture; if you're interested, this is for you.

Wondering What's In It For You?

The Naturally Lewis Economic Development Conference is a full day of knowledge sharing, networking, workshops, and interactive discussions focusing on hot-topics in our rural communities. You're walking away from the day with new connections, new tools in your tool box, and new ideas to carry you forward.

"Each year when we gather, we learn from each other, we grow in our relationships, and we learn new things."

2023 Conference Attendee

Developing Agenda

the plan for the day

8am - 9am | Registration & Networking

9am - 9:15am | Welcome & Introductions

By the Naturally Lewis Team

9:15am - 9:35am | Keynote Address

Stay tuned for more information.

9:45am - 10:25am | Group Session

Dear Lewis County, Burst Your Bubble

We all have a tendency to stick to what we know; it's natural. But there's an issue in sticking to who you know. At this session, we're breaking down silos and leaving the echo chambers we're comfortable with. We're bursting our bubbles to network, learn from others, and see each other as real humans.

10:35am - 11:15am | Breakout Sessions

Dear Lewis County, Build on Your Assets

We're a part of an incredible community. From the natural beauty and people making things happen to the small town charm and organizations making their mark, Lewis County has strengths we tend to overlook. This session is about acknowledging the stregths of our communities and building on our assets. We're learning from the people that have done the things, understanding the value of asset-based community development, and gaining the tools to build on our assets.

Dear Lewis County, Don't Compete; Collaborate!

In a small community we're all connected. When we're looking at our strengths, that's one of our greatest assets. Let's use that to our advantage! This session is connecting people with people to empower you to make your mark. If you're a business or an organization there's room for you to collaborate; here's your pathway to partnership.

11:25am-12:05pm | Breakout Sessions

Dear Lewis County, Nurture a Thriving Business Community

We all want to be a part of a business-friendly community - a community where zoning is condusive to business growth, where there are businesses open on weekends, and where our community supports local. In this session we're hearing from a panel of experts - the people doing the things - to learn the tools that can lead us to a thriving economy.

Dear Lewis County, Carve Your Path Forward!

Feeling swamped in your business or organization? Struggling with uncertainty or feeling stuck in a rut? Say goodbye to overwhelm and frustration, and hello to a future filled with clarity, confidence, and concrete steps towards a better future. In this interactive session, you will learn the value-add of planning and leveraging collaborative support in order for your business or organization to reach its true potential. We'll help you get clear on what you really want, what might help you get there and the tools to get you started. Let's turn your concerns and challenges into opportunities!

12:10pm - 1pm | Lunch

Student Pitch Competition Presentation

We're welcoming the winner of the inaugural Naturally Lewis Student Pitch Competition to present their business idea at the Naturally Lewis Economic Development Conference! Stay tuned for more information on this future business leader.

1:10pm - 1:50pm| Group Session

Dear Lewis County, What's Next?

The next generation is on the rise. There is a new wave of emerging leaders, new businesses opening, and communities developing. In this session we're hearing from the next generation on the paths they're on, and the opportunities they're looking to delve into.

2pm - 2:40pm | Breakout Sessions

Dear Lewis County, Here's How to Elevate Your Brand Tomorrow

Stay tuned for a session description!

Dear Lewis County, It's Not About You

Big growth goals without data to back them up? Not on our watch. Who you are serving and selling to is just as important as what you are offering. In this session, we take a hard look at why identifying your target market is one of the most important steps you can take when starting a new business, launching new products, or seeking overall growth. Join us as we cover the who, what, where, when, and how in this intensive workshop.

2:50pm - 3:20pm| Breakout Sessions

Dear Lewis County, Leverage Local & State Resources

Our community members are experts in the needs of our community. We're looking to educate and empower our community members to make the big changes we need by leveraging local and state resources for homegrown growth.

Dear Lewis County, How Are You Doing?

When we're taking care of ourselves, we're better able to take care of our community. This session is exploring the balancing act of personal wellbeing and community leadership. We're talking about work-life balance, workplace culture, and creating spaces that support wellbeing in our community.

Workshop Leaders: Devan Robinson & Quatrell Walker

3:30pm - 4:30pm | Group Session