Economic Alliance of Lewis County

11/02/2026

ScaleUp Training starts on November 17th/12:15pm-1:45pm/this program is a 4 week "free" course!!

ScaleUp business classes - in English y en español Are you ready to grow your business? Special edition: Digital Marketing and SEO This four-week instructor-led course equips small business owners across all industries with the knowledge and tools necessary to adapt their marketing strategies to a ...

10/28/2026

UPDATED SPEAKER LINEUP | 2026 WOODY BIOMASS CONFERENCE

The Economic Alliance of Lewis County is looking forward to bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers for our 4th Annual Woody Biomass Conference on November 12.

We're pleased to announce two updates to this year's speaker lineup:

Doug Hooks of the Washington Forest Protection Association (WFPA), will join our panel discussion, bringing valuable industry insight into the future of forestry and woody biomass in Washington.

Luke Rogers of the University of Washington will take on two roles at this year's conference, delivering a presentation on data and partnerships before joining our panel of experts for further discussion.

This year's conference will explore the opportunities, challenges, and innovations shaping the Pacific Northwest's renewable energy future, with a focus on how woody biomass can support sustainable forest management, economic development, and new opportunities for our region.

Thursday, November 12, 2026
3:00–6:00 PM
Centralia College | TransAlta Commons

The conference is open to the public, and we encourage local businesses, forestry professionals, community leaders, and anyone interested in the future of renewable energy to attend.

We look forward to an afternoon of meaningful discussion, new perspectives, and collaboration as we explore what's next for woody biomass in Lewis County and beyond.

10/27/2026

These rainy fall days have us missing the sunshine, green fairways, and good times at the Alliance Open! ☀️⛳

Hard to believe it’s already been over a month since we hit the course. Here’s a little look back at some of the players who made it such a great day!

Thank you again to all those who sponsored, volunteered, donated and just came out to have a good time.

10/23/2026

The future of Washington's forests is full of opportunity.

Join the Economic Alliance of Lewis County for our 4th Annual Woody Biomass Conference on November 12 as we explore how innovation, emerging technologies, and regional partnerships are creating new opportunities for Washington's forest products industry.

From converting woody biomass into valuable new products to supporting local jobs and strengthening our rural economy, this year's conference will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to discuss what's next.

Thursday, November 12 | 3–6 PM
Centralia College | TransAlta Commons

Featuring keynote speaker Rep. Peter Abbarno, technical presentations from industry experts, regional project updates, and a panel discussion on the future of woody biomass.

Whether you're involved in forestry, manufacturing, economic development, or simply interested in the future of our region, we invite you to be part of the conversation.

Join us as we explore what's possible for Lewis County and beyond.

10/23/2026

We enjoyed attending the CAMPS 2026 Annual Manufacturing Conference: FUTURE READY in Tukwila!

It was a great opportunity to connect with leaders from across Washington’s manufacturing community and hear conversations focused on leadership, change, innovation, and the future of manufacturing in our state.

We appreciate the opportunity to learn, make new connections, and bring valuable ideas and information back to Lewis County’s business and manufacturing community.

Thank you to CAMPS for putting together a great event!

10/22/2026

Let the State of the Forest Conference begin! It’s not too late to stop on over to join us at the TransAlta Commons 3:00pm-5:00pm. Hope to see you there!

10/21/2026

See everyone tomorrow!

STATE OF THE FOREST | Tomorrow
Thursday, October 22 | 3 PM
TransAlta Commons at Centralia College
Open to the public

What role do working forests play in the future of our communities?
Join us for State of the Forest, a public conversation exploring the economic, environmental and social importance of Washington’s working forests; from jobs and local economies to wildfire resilience, wildlife habitat, recreation and forest management.

Moderated by Lindsey Po***ck, the panel will bring together voices from across forestry and natural resource management:
• Matt Comiskey | American Forest Resource Council
• Duane Emmons | Washington Department of Natural Resources
• Dan Daly | Hampton Lumber
• Devon Powell | Port Blakely
We’ll explore who owns and manages our forests, how different lands are managed, the challenges facing the timber industry, and why healthy, actively managed working forests matter to communities across Washington.
A robust Q&A will follow the panel. Come listen, learn and be part of the conversation. See less

10/21/2026

Lewis County Businesses: Be Part of the Conversation Shaping Our Region’s Economic Future!
Early Bird Pricing Ends Soon — Register Today!
Join Lewis County business owners, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and community partners at the 2026 Regional Economic Forecast & Innovation EXPO, December 9–10 at Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound.
Presented in partnership with the Economic Alliance of Lewis County and economic development organizations across our five-county region, the EXPO brings together the people, ideas, and opportunities driving economic growth throughout Southwest Washington.
Why should Lewis County attend?
Hear the latest regional economic forecast and discover what emerging trends mean for Lewis County businesses.
Explore opportunities in rural development, workforce, healthcare, energy, international trade, and innovation.
Connect with business leaders, industry experts, and potential partners from Thurston, Mason, Lewis, Grays Harbor, and Pacific counties.
Gain practical insights and build relationships that support business growth, investment, and economic opportunity in Lewis County.
Two days. Five counties. One region moving forward.
From small businesses and manufacturers to agriculture, industry, and community development, Lewis County plays a vital role in our regional economy. Your voice and perspective belong in these conversations.
Don't miss your chance to save! Register before Early Bird pricing ends.
December 9–10, 2026
Great Wolf Lodge | Grand Mound, WA
Register Today: https://thurstonedc.com/regional-economic-forecast-innovation-expo/

10/21/2026

STATE OF THE FOREST | Tomorrow
Thursday, October 22 | 3 PM
TransAlta Commons at Centralia College
Open to the public

What role do working forests play in the future of our communities?
Join us for State of the Forest, a public conversation exploring the economic, environmental and social importance of Washington’s working forests; from jobs and local economies to wildfire resilience, wildlife habitat, recreation and forest management.

Moderated by Lindsey Po***ck, the panel will bring together voices from across forestry and natural resource management:
• Matt Comiskey | American Forest Resource Council
• Duane Emmons | Washington Department of Natural Resources
• Dan Daly | Hampton Lumber
• Devon Powell | Port Blakely
We’ll explore who owns and manages our forests, how different lands are managed, the challenges facing the timber industry, and why healthy, actively managed working forests matter to communities across Washington.
A robust Q&A will follow the panel. Come listen, learn and be part of the conversation. See less

10/08/2026

The 4th Annual Woody Biomass Conference is coming to Centralia.

Join the Economic Alliance of Lewis County for an afternoon of innovation, collaboration, and conversation about the future of woody biomass and its potential to strengthen our regional economy.

This year's conference brings together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and regional partners to explore emerging technologies, sustainable resource management, and new economic opportunities for our communities.

Thursday, November 12 | 3–6 PM
Centralia College | TransAlta Commons

The afternoon will feature a keynote address from Representative Peter Abbarno, updates from the Economic Alliance on regional woody biomass initiatives, and technical presentations from industry innovators, including:

- Ken Cavallon | Ways2H
- Dale Smith | Cascadia Accelerator
- Brian Bonlender | Renew Biomaterials

A panel discussion featuring Katie Whittier, Jason Spadaro, Bob Russell, and representatives from the University of Washington will further explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of this growing industry.

As Lewis County continues to explore innovative ways to support our timber industry, create jobs, and strengthen our economy, conversations like these are essential to building meaningful partnerships and moving new opportunities forward.

Mark your calendars and join us for the 4th Annual Woody Biomass Conference.