Are You Ready for the SEDC Annual Conference

We are excited to welcome you to the 2026 SEDC Annual Conference, the largest gathering of economy builders in the American South, set in beautiful Bonita Springs, Florida, from August 16 - 18. As you prepare for this unparalleled opportunity to network, strategize with world-class leaders, and celebrate new economic development, we want to ensure you have the essential details for a seamless and enjoyable experience. We look forward to seeing you soon and making #SEDC2026 an impactful event for all!

SEDC Annual Conference | August 16 - 18

Registration

Download #SEDC2026 Program

Download Program Booklet

Shout Out to Our Great Sponsors!

How About Some Extra Fun | Ticketed Events

#AmericanSouth Scramble

August 16 @ 8:00 AM

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Beach Day Presented by
Santee Cooper

August 16 | 10:00 AM

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SEDC Women in Economic Development Committee

Wellness Session

August 18 @ 7:00 AM

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The Big Receptions

Welcome Reception Presented by
Brasfield & Gorrie

Don’t miss the #SEDC2026 Opening Reception on Sunday, August 16, from 5:30 – 7:30 PM at the Waterfall Pool Deck. Presented by Brasfield & Gorrie, attendees will enjoy mingling with colleagues and live music from Dueling Pianos!

Closing Reception Presented by

Norfolk Southern

The #SEDC2026 Closing Reception on August 18 from 6:30 - 10:00 PM is going to be epic! Presented by Norfolk Southern, enjoy the sounds of Electric Avenue. Dress in your best 80s attire for a chance to win a $200 Amazon Gift Card!

80s Night at #SEDC2026 | Dress to Impress

Don't forget to wear your best 1980's gear to our Closing Reception Presented by Norfolk Southern on August 18! You'll love the band and the great networking! There's a prize for best dressed!

Showcase Your State Delegation

on the Main Stage

We encourage state delegations to organize a group photo while at #SEDC2026 and post on social media (tag SEDC!). Feel free to have your group gather on the main stage during breaks! Send a pic to SEDC and we'll post on our social media, as well.

The SEDC Podcast

The SEDC Podcast Presented by Insyteful will be live from #SEDC2026. We'd love to interview you. To request an interview, contact SEDC today.

Request a Podcast Interview

Everything Else About #SEDC2026

SEDC's 80th Anniversary: #SEDC2026 marks 80 years of the Southern Economic Development Council. As we celebrate the American South's continued performance and globally leading status, we also honor eight decades of SEDC bringing together the leaders who helped shape our region into the world's premier investment destination. Thank you for joining us for this special milestone event.

A Ton of Live Music | Enjoy the Show: #SEDC2026 presents several talented musicians and groups to join us this year, including Pan Paradise, Dueling Pianos, Walter Live, DJ Mike Shawn, and the return of Electric Avenue. Join us at the receptions and networking events to enjoy the talent!

#SEDC2026 Last Call Karaoke | Sing Your Heart Out: Join us on August 17 at 9:00 PM for our Last Call Karaoke Reception presented by Location Design Group. Settle in on the Belvedere Terrace for a relaxed, feel‑good night of singing, camaraderie, and fun.

Silent Auction | Support the SEDC Foundation: Participate in our Silent Auction on Monday evening to support scholarships for educational and business attraction activities. Use the HandBid app to bid on fantastic items. Instructions will be provided.

#SEDC2026 Coffee Bar | Stay Energized: The SEDC Coffee Bar is the best place for some networking and caffeine! You'll find that coffee is available all throughout the conference in the main exhibit hall, featuring a curated menu of organic, locally roasted cold brew and Americanos.

#SEDC2026 Photo Booth | Say Cheese! The #SEDC2026 Photo Booth, presented by Dominion Energy, is a great way to capture memories with new friends and familiar colleagues. Be sure to drop by the booth to snap a few photos!

State Caucus Meetings: Be prepared for a meeting with your state delegation on Sunday, August 16. These caucus meetings are used to connect with one another, discuss any pertinent SEDC updates, and review your state's economic momentum. Caucus meeting locations will be available on site.

Private Events | Enhance the Experience: Partners organizing private events add value, impact, and fun to our Conference! All we ask is that you please ensure your events do not conflict with SEDC functions or receptions. Thanks for coordinating and for moving the #AmericanSouth forward!

Conference Mentorship | First-Time SEDC-Goers: If this is your first SEDC event, we’d love to support you throughout the conference. With a full schedule and this being our largest gathering of the year, we want every new attendee to feel confident, connected, and set up for success. Our Conference Mentorship Program pairs first‑time participants with seasoned members who can offer guidance, answer questions, and help you navigate sessions, receptions, and networking opportunities. To join the program, please contact Holly Hardt at holly@sedc.org.

New Member Reception: Are you a new SEDC member? If so, this year SEDC is hosting a special event just for you. Join us on August 17 at 5:00 PM in the Driftwood Ballroom. If you have joined SEDC in the past year, drop by and say hi.

Social Media Engagement | Be Active on Social Media: Use #SEDC2026 for all your social media posts. We’ll share as much as we can!

Registration Table | Get Started: Your #SEDC2026 experience begins at the registration table. Pick up your badge and conference materials here.

Dress Code | Resort Casual: At #SEDC2026, you can skip the formalities for most events. This event leans into elevated resort wear paired with professional, relaxed business casual. Aim for attire that feels comfortable, confident, and conference‑ready without being formal.

Calling All Runners | #SEDC2026 5K: Alright, runners, don't forget to pack the shoes for the #SEDC2026 "Fun Run" presented by Creative Economic Development Consulting on August 17 at 6:00 AM.