News Release
The Adams County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Elevate Adams County Economic Forecast, taking place on Wednesday, November 5 at The River Barn, 7021 W, 2nd Street in Manchester. This annual event brings together business leaders, community stakeholders, and residents to explore local economic trends, workforce development, small business growth, tourism, and partnerships shaping the future of Adams County. Attendees will enjoy a buffet breakfast, networking opportunities, and a professional headshot courtesy of Kaila Ward Photography. Registration is $35 per person.
The event schedule is designed to provide actionable insights from leaders across agriculture, business, education, tourism, and economic development:
7:30 a.m- Doors Open / Breakfast
8 a.m.- Welcome: Randi McFarland-Franklin, Business Coordinator, Adams County Chamber of Commerce, will open the event with a brief introduction.
8:05 a.m.- State-Level Economic Development: Brian Baldridge, Director, Ohio Department of Agriculture, will provide an overview of Ohio’s agriculture and economic initiatives. Baldridge brings extensive experience in public service and community leadership, including roles as Ohio State Representative, Adams County Commissioner and Wayne Township Trustee.
8:25 a.m.- Local Tourism Drivers: Tom Cross, Executive Director, Adams County Travel & Tourism Bureau, will highlight tourism trends and opportunities in Adams County. Tom is an award-winning outdoor writer recognized with the ODNR Cardinal Award for his work promoting Ohio’s natural resources.
8:45 a.m.- Economic Outlook 2026: Paul Worley, Executive Director, Adams County Economic & Community Development; Matt Abbott, President & CEO, Ohio Southeast Economic Development; Destiny Bryson, Director of Engagement & Partnerships, Ohio Southeast Economic Development; and Adrianne Utter, Project Manager, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, will discuss regional economic forecasts, key growth areas, and opportunities for business development.
9:10 a.m.- Partnerships Shaping Our Future: Dawn Wallace, Superintendent, Adams County Ohio Valley School District, will present on innovative partnerships shaping the future of education and workforce development, including The GRIT Project.
9:30–10 a.m. – Panel Discussion: Lisa Tumbleson-Davis, Program Director, Adams Brown Community Action Partnership, and Ashley Wilburn, Small Business Development Center Advisor at The Ohio State University, will join representatives from the Small Business Administration, Small Business Development Centers, and ABCAP Business Development. The panel, moderated by David Richey, Executive Vice President & CFO, First State Bank, will discuss resources available to local businesses and answer audience questions.
10 a.m.- Q&A and Networking: Attendees will have the opportunity to connect directly with speakers and community leaders.
“The Elevate Adams County Economic Forecast is a must-attend event for anyone looking to understand the opportunities and challenges ahead in our local economy,” said Randi McFarland-Franklin. “Our speakers bring expertise from agriculture, business, education, and economic development to provide actionable insights that can help businesses and our community thrive in 2026.”
Registration is $35 per person, and spots are limited. To reserve your place, call (937) 217-7596. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights, connect with community leaders, and prepare your business and community for the year ahead.
