Posted on May 29th, 2018

SPARTANBURG – The Spartanburg County Foundation is pleased to partner with the Council on Foundations to host the first Inclusive Economic Prosperity Convening in the South Wednesday, May 23rd through Thursday, May 24th at the innovation centers of two major economic drivers – Milliken and Company and BMW Manufacturing.  This event will bring nearly 130 philanthropic leaders from the Southeast region and beyond to Spartanburg to examine the landscape that contributes to a healthy economy that seeks to be both equitable and innovative.

“In order for communities to thrive, it is critical that local economies be equipped with the tools needed to drive inclusion and innovation in all sectors of society.  This need has been particularly highlighted in the South where studies have shown a persistent lack of economic mobility throughout the region,” said Julianne Sobral, Chief Operating Officer of the Council on Foundations. “This convening will provide a much-needed deep dive into philanthropy’s role in leaving no one behind in society and sparking the economic engine that will allow our communities and regions to grow.”

Registrants will hear from local, regional, and national experts on topics such as community leadership, capitalization and impact investing, resource alignment, and competitive talent development.  Co-Founder of the Ballmer Group, Chairman of the Los Angeles Clippers, and former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer will deliver the keynote address that will provide meaningful thoughts and ideas to increasing a community’s economic mobility.  Local leaders such as Bill Barnet, Tammie Hoy Hawkins, Mary Thomas, and Gage Weekes will join regional speakers and facilitators to provide expertise on philanthropy’s role in inclusive economic prosperity.

“The Spartanburg County Foundation is honored to have played a major role in bringing this important convening to the community.  Now in its 75th year, the Foundation is looking toward the future role of philanthropy and how our work will impact Spartanburg County’s economy,” said Troy Hanna, President and CEO of The Spartanburg County Foundation.  “We are grateful for the local, regional, and national support as we continue to identify innovative ways to improve the lives of Spartanburg County residents.”

Convening sessions held at Milliken and Company’s global headquarters are limited to registrants.  Media are invited to attend the Networking Reception at the BMW Zentrum Wednesday, May 23rd from 6pm-8pm.  This reception will include remarks by Lyneir Richardson, Executive Director of The Center for Urban Entrepreneurship and Economic Development at Rutgers Business School.  For a full schedule and sponsor list, please visit   https://www.cof.org/event/inclusive-economic-prosperity-south.

 

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The Spartanburg County Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of Spartanburg County residents by promoting philanthropy, encouraging community engagement and responding to community needs.  Established in 1943, The Spartanburg County Foundation is the oldest community foundation in South Carolina.  Additional information about the Foundation is available at www.spcf.org.