Conference to focus on the economic success of ‘welcoming' communities

Event will probe how more inclusive policies can attract workers, spark growth

A conference looking at how creating innovative, inclusive models that enlist the talents and skills of all New Hampshire residents in order to build a stronger Granite State economy will be held Friday, Sept. 16 in Manchester.

“Building NH’s Economic Future” is being presented by Welcoming NH, a statewide network of organizations and individuals that promotes inclusive programs and policies. The conference will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Manchester Community College. Admission is free, but registration is required.

Keynoting the Sept. 16 conference will be Karl Dean, former two-term mayor of Nashville, Tenn., who will talk about how, by becoming a ‘welcoming community’ that embraces young new residents and immigrants, his city has become a model of economic growth

Also featured at the event will be a panel discussion featuring New Hampshire business leaders who will discuss the state’s workforce and economy and examine strategies that emphasize becoming more inclusive for immigrant and refugee workers and entrepreneurs.

In addition, there will be two breakout sessions focusing on the question, “who will be New Hampshire’s future workforce?” One will look at creating an educational system that welcomes and supports all students. The second will look at how diverse communities attract and retain Millennials.

For more information, visit welcomingNH.org.