(Marina, CA, Sept. 14, 2022) - Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) will host its 8th Annual State of the Region, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, at the University Center at California State University, Monterey Bay. Featuring presentations and conversations on critical issues for the region, the annual convening will take place in person after two years of virtual events.

MBEP’s 8th Annual State of the Region brings together public, private and civic leaders from Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito counties and beyond, to focus on critical issues impacting the economic health and quality of life in the region: How do we drive equitable regional economic recovery and development? How do we attain housing for all across all income levels in a time of sky-high housing costs and limited construction? How do we reduce the digital divide so that businesses, students and residents alike can access education, health care and social services? How can we come together to shape policy and legislation that meets the long term needs of our region? And how do we foster inclusive, cross-sector partnerships that ensure regional well-being for all?

We are pleased to announce that Chris Benner and Manuel Pastor of Solidarity Economics will be joining us to discuss their approach to address widening income inequality, rising economic insecurities, and growing social and racial fragmentation while also promoting innovation and economic growth where businesses can thrive. Congressman Jimmy Panetta will also be joining us to provide a federal legislative update on policies and programs impacting our region. Stay tuned in the coming weeks for additional speakers and agenda items.

“MBEP’s 8th Annual State of the Region couldn’t be more timely, as we work to transform our regional economy for a more inclusive and resilient tomorrow,” says MBEP President & CEO Tahra Goraya. “Now more than ever, we need to build cross-sector collaborations and engage in the compelling conversations that occur when you bring together leaders, policymakers and stakeholders from across the region and state.”

Sponsorship opportunities are available and early-bird registration is now underway at the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/8th-annual-state-of-the-region-tickets-399183106417.

To learn more about how your organization can support Monterey Bay Economic Partnership's mission of improving the economic health and quality of life in the tri-county region, contact MBEP President & CEO Tahra Goraya at tgoraya@mbep.biz or Marketing Communications Specialist Jessica Gilden at jgilden@mbep.biz.

About Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP): 

Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) is a regional member-supported nonprofit organization consisting of public, private, and civic entities located throughout the counties of Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz. Founded in 2015, our mission is to improve the economic health and quality of life in the region.