The Playmaker Playbook: Proven Strategies Driving Economic Growth in Today’s Cities

What separates cities that grow from those that stall? The answer isn’t one big idea—it’s a series of smart, intentional moves. In this session, our panel of municipal leaders break down the most effective economic development strategies used by standout communities throughout the country. From activating underutilized spaces and leveraging public-private partnerships to building lifestyle-driven districts and prioritizing year-round programming, these cities are rewriting the rules of growth. Attendees will gain a practical, real-world playbook of replicable strategies—grounded in case studies and designed for immediate application—so they can turn momentum into measurable economic impact back home.