Invest Fort Smith set for Nov. 13

After a year’s hiatus, Invest Fort Smith will return to the Bakery District on Nov. 13. This year’s economic summit will be more interactive than years past by incorporating additional networking opportunities, according to organizers.

“Invest Fort Smith did take a brief pause, but we’re excited to bring it back this year with an even stronger focus on fostering local business growth and preparing our community for the future,” said Amanda Hager, executive director of Main Street Fort Smith (formerly 64.6 Downtown). “We’ve added a vendor mingle and a happy hour to encourage more conversations and connections between attendees. These elements will give business owners, entrepreneurs, and developers a chance to not only learn but also build relationships with peers and potential collaborators in a relaxed environment.”

The event, which will be 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Nov. 13 at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith Center for Economic Development at The Bakery District, will include:
• Headshots by Shelby McFarland of The Marketing Broker, from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.;
• A social media marketing lunch and learn presented by McFarland and Christina Williams Consulting from 11 to 11:30 a.m.; and,
• A Governor’s Cup Winner Presentation with facilitator Dr. Latisha Settlage, dean of the College of Business and Industry at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith.

“Unlocking Procurement Opportunities: Insights from Local Experts,” facilitated by Kendall Ross, associate vice chancellor for economic and workforce development, will feature panelists Charity Gregory, City of Fort Smith purchasing director; Carol Miller, Sebastian County purchasing administrator; Kimberly Randle, PTAC procurement counselor for the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension; and Angela Watts, director of procurement in Tech R&D at ArcBest, from 12:10 to 1 p.m.

The panel discussion, “Preparing for Business Growth,” facilitated by Settlage, will include panelists Fort Smith City Director Lavon Morton; Col. Nick Ihde, 85th Fighter Group; Dr. Justin Voris, with Baptist Health Family Clinic-Massard and a member of the Fort Smith Airport Commission; Bob Cooper, partner and executive broker with Ghan & Cooper Commercial Properties; and Randle, from 1:10-2 p.m.

A final session on how AI can enhance business through smarter marketing strategies and streamlined process management with Aric Mitchell, AI and communications strategist, and Jakob Michaelis, chief strategy officer at Dave Creek Media, from 3 to 3:50 p.m.

Vendor mingle and networking is scheduled from 2 to 3 p.m. and a Happy Hour networking is scheduled from 4 to 5 p.m.

“This event offers the chance to hear directly from city leaders and experts about the economic opportunities coming to Fort Smith, particularly with the arrival of military families tied to the Ebbing Air National Guard Base. It’s a unique opportunity to gain insight into what this means for local businesses and how they can position themselves for success,” Hager said. “Plus, with the added networking sessions, attendees will leave with both knowledge and new connections that could help them grow their businesses in tangible ways.”

Link here to register for the free event.