Welcome to the 2025 SEDC Annual Conference!

From the 17 states of the Southern Economic Development Council, the world’s top economy builders have come together for #SEDC2025. We’re excited to be in Oklahoma and Oklahoma City, and we’re grateful to our hosts for welcoming us to this vibrant state and city. Oklahoma City, like so many communities across the #AmericanSouth, reflects the energy, vision, and enterprising spirit that define our region. Whether in the conference halls, at our receptions, or exploring everything this city has to offer, we’re all in for an outstanding experience at #SEDC2025.

Oklahoma is currently undergoing historic economic momentum, driven by bold leadership, innovative industries, and communities committed to growth. We thank our state partners for their dedication to creating opportunity and prosperity that has an impact throughout Oklahoma and beyond. In the last three years, SEDC states have facilitated nearly $600 billion in capital investment, creating more than 600,000 new jobs. The AmericanSouth’s economic strength, contributing almost $10 trillion to the US GDP, ranks our region as the world’s third-largest economy. And the professionals who have helped make this incredible progress happen are here with us at this conference.

This is a powerful moment.

At SEDC, and especially at this Annual Conference, we come together to support and promote new economic development across the #AmericanSouth. Our region is home to iconic brands, industry leaders, and innovations that change global markets. Our members and communities don’t just keep up— they lead the way. As part of this Council and as representatives of this region, it’s our job to protect and advance the South’s place as the best location in the world for business and opportunity, which is why we convene at #SEDC2025.

At #SEDC2025, we’re here to celebrate our success, but more importantly, to keep moving forward. We’re here to build new connections, share the strengths and opportunities of our communities, and learn from the insights of our outstanding speakers and exhibitors. This conference is a unique chance to learn, collaborate, and inspire one another as we keep working to build stronger businesses, families, communities, and states throughout the #AmericanSouth.
Let’s make the most of this moment and keep driving progress together.