The University of Utah is excited to host the upcoming 2023 University Economic Development Association (UEDA) Annual Summit on October 8-10.

With the summit just over eight months away, UEDA has issued a call for workshop and presentation proposals. Topics should be centered around the summit’s theme “Innovation for a Sustainable Future” and the concept of innovation, talent or place. “We are looking for sessions that demonstrate talent development that advances a sustainable economy, innovation that addresses climate and resilience issues, and community initiatives that improve the quality and sustainability of place,” the call for proposals says.

The sessions will be about an hour in length, and preference will be given to sessions with audience participation.

Suggested presentation formats:

• Panel Discussion: Typically, for panel discussion sessions there is a session moderator and 2-3 panelists. Specialty needs (e.g. presentation audio/video, etc.) should be identified up front. Again, this type of presentation is permitted with elements of audience engagement beyond the Q&A period.
• Workshop: Workshop sessions at the Summit should include an introductory portion for presenters to introduce their presentation, followed by a more interactive and intensive group discussion surrounding the topic presented. Specialty needs (e.g. presentation audio/video, etc.) should be identified up front.
• Experiential Learning: Experiential learning is a process through which participants develop knowledge, skills, and values from direct experiences outside the traditional conference setting. While Summit schedule is very tight, UEDA welcomes new ways to challenge the traditional conference environment.
• Lightning Round: The UEDA Lightning Round provides best practices around a single broad topic in a quick lightning-round format. Each presenter will have five minutes to present their idea in a quick, engaging, and inspirational way while using limited presentation materials. Immediately following the presentations, a questions and comment session with the audience will take place for all presenters.

The deadline for proposals has been extended to March 31.

About UEDA

Established in 1976, the University Economic Development Association has been working to bring together higher education institutions, private sector businesses, non-profits, government organizations, and community economic development stakeholders to create local and regional economic opportunity. Our membership has grown to more than 160 organizations, who represent those at the leading edge of modern economic development thinking and practice.