Globalization and the Midwest Conference

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2008 PUBLIC CONFERENCE: Globalization and the Midwest

Globalization is testing the Midwest’s productivity and resilience. Midwestern states have always been linked to international markets, but globalization today is closing factories and an anti-globalization backlash threatens the traditional political support for free trade. Whether America can effectively absorb immigrants, maintain a commitment to free trade, retain its competitive edge, or move forward on a host of other key issues is dependent upon the success of the Midwest in the era of globalization.

This full-day conference will bring together business, civic, academic, and policy leaders to examine how to best position the Midwest region in the global era.

John Engler, president and chief executive officer of the National Association of Manufacturers and former governor of Michigan; Thomas Vilsack, former governor of Iowa; and Thomas Dorr, under secretary for rural development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will deliver keynote addresses. Panels throughout the day will examine the Midwest in the global economy, industries of the future, the impact of immigration, and the importance of thinking regionally.

An agenda and schedule is now available online at thechicagocouncil.org.

The Hyatt Regency Chicago
151 East Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60601

7:30 a.m.    Registration and Breakfast Buffet
8:00 a.m.    Welcoming Remarks
12:00 p.m.  Luncheon and Keynote
5:00 p.m.    Closing Reception

Nonprofit/Academic Rate:  $75
Private Sector Rate: $150
Lunch Only: $50

To register, click here.
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