ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WEEK: MAY 3-7, 2027

 On Monday, April 27, 2026, the Laredo Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) officially launched Economic Development Week 2026 with a successful press conference held at the LEDC offices.

Community leaders, partners, and stakeholders gathered to emphasize the power of collaboration in driving regional growth and to unveil an exciting week of events dedicated to economic progress, business development, and community engagement.

Welcoming remarks were delivered by David A. Stedman, President & CEO of LEDC; Cliffe Killam, Chairman of LEDC; Mayor Victor D. Treviño; and Rogelio Treviño of Workforce Solutions for South Texas, who also announced the upcoming Business Expo & Job Fair.

This kickoff event set the tone for a dynamic week focused on strengthening partnerships, expanding opportunities, and advancing Laredo’s economic future. LEDC is proud to work alongside its valued partners in building a stronger, more prosperous community.

2026 Economic Development Week Highlights:
• Proclamation Day
• Small Business Awards & Women Entrepreneurs Rock Series
• State of Transportation & Infrastructure Forum

• Luncheon Presentation
• State of Economic Development Forum
• Spring Membership & Networking Mixer

• Texas Workforce Commission Presentation
• Business Expo & Job Fair

To kick off Laredo Economic Development Week 2026, the Laredo Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with MileOne, proudly hosted the Proclamation Ceremony at MileOne on Monday, May 5th—officially launching a week dedicated to growth, collaboration, and economic progress.

The program featured welcoming remarks from Cliffe Killam, Chairman of the Laredo Economic Development Corporation and President & CEO of Killam Development, Ltd. The ceremony also included the official City of Laredo proclamation presented by Dr. Victor D. Treviño, Mayor of Laredo, followed by the Webb County proclamation delivered by Raul Reyes, MPA, CT, CIO, Treasurer of Webb County.

We were also honored to recognize the invaluable support of our partners and sponsors, including Terracon and the International Economic Development Council, whose collaboration continues to strengthen our regional impact.

This meaningful kickoff set the stage for a dynamic week of events focused on innovation, strategic partnerships, and expanding economic opportunity for the Laredo community.

Generously sponsored by Terracon

On Tuesday, May 6, MileOne—a Division of the Laredo Economic Development Corporation (LEDC)—proudly hosted the Women in Economic Development session in celebration of Economic Development Week 2026.

The event brought together an inspiring group of leaders for an engaging afternoon of meaningful conversations, valuable insights, and impactful perspectives on the role of women in advancing economic development across our region and beyond.

FEATURED GUEST SPEAKERS 

Nydia Robles
Executive Director of Laredo Main Street

Gabriela Morales
Executive Director of the Southwest Border Regional Commission

Devorah Karren
Nuevo León’s Port Colombia–Laredo Promotion Director

AWARD RECEPIENTS

Small Resource Partner of the Year:
TAMIU Small Business Development Center 

Entrepreneur of the Year: 

Angel Trevino Architecture
Small Business of the Year: 

Antonio Sanchez – Speedy Gold Laredo 

Generously sponsored by PNC Bank

On Wednesday, May 6, the Laredo Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with MileOne, hosted an outstanding turnout for the State of Transportation & Infrastructure and State of Economic Development Forums at Laredo College. 

The program brought together community leaders, transportation experts, and economic development professionals for a dynamic exchange of insights on regional growth, mobility, and future opportunities.

FEATURED GUEST SPEAKERS 

Alejandro G. Meade, III
Commissioner, Texas Department of Transportation 

Epi Gonzalez, P.E.
Laredo District Engineer, Texas Department of Transportation

Jed A. Brown
Chairman, Webb County–City of Laredo Regional Mobility Authority

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

dialogue, reinforcing Laredo’s vital role in driving economic progress locally and internationally.

 Their expertise and leadership provided attendees with a deeper understanding of the strategic initiatives, infrastructure investments, and economic development efforts driving Laredo’s continued progress as a key hub for commerce, transportation, and regional prosperity. 

Generously sponsored by Laredo College

During the State of Transportation and Infrastructure and State of Economic Development Forum, the Laredo Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with MileOne, hosted a distinguished luncheon presentation on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the Falcon Bank Executive Conference Room on the Laredo College Main Campus.

This special gathering brought together business leaders, community stakeholders, and economic development professionals for an engaging afternoon centered on leadership, innovation, and strategic growth.

We were honored to welcome two exceptional guest speakers who shared their expertise and valuable perspectives on economic development at the regional and state levels:

FEATURED GUEST SPEAKERS

T. Kirk Wilson
Founder and President of T. Wilson & Associates 

Jeff Moseley
Former CEO of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism 

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Attendees gained meaningful knowledge from both speakers, whose combined experience and vision offered valuable guidance for advancing Laredo’s economic future.

The Luncheon Presentation served as another successful highlight of Economic Development Week 2026, reinforcing Laredo’s dedication to fostering connections, inspiring innovation, and building a stronger future for our region.

Generously sponsored by

Killam Development, Ltd.

As part of Laredo Economic Development Week 2026, the State of Economic Development Forum brought together business leaders, public officials, and regional stakeholders for an engaging afternoon focused on the opportunities, challenges, and future of economic growth in the Laredo region.

Hosted at Laredo College’s Main Campus, the forum provided attendees with valuable insights into the city’s evolving economic landscape, binational partnerships, and strategic initiatives shaping Laredo’s continued success as a global trade and commerce hub.

FEATURED GUEST SPEAKERS

Joseph Neeb
City Manager, City of Laredo

Devorah Karren
International Affairs Director, State of Nuevo León & Port Colombia-Laredo

Enrique J. Cervantes
Business Development Director, London Consulting

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Attendees gained valuable perspectives on:

• Laredo’s economic outlook and strategic development initiatives 
• Cross-border trade and international partnerships 
• Infrastructure and logistics opportunities 
• Regional competitiveness and business expansion strategies 

 Through thoughtful discussion and strategic dialogue, the forum highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, education, and private industry in driving sustainable growth and strengthening Laredo’s competitive advantage. 

Generously sponsored by

Laredo College

The Laredo Economic Development Corporation proudly hosted its Spring Membership & Networking Mixer on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the Tesoro Room of the La Posada Hotel. The festive evening brought together LEDC members, business leaders, and community stakeholders for an engaging opportunity to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the strong partnerships that continue to drive economic growth across the Laredo region.

Guests enjoyed an evening filled with networking, meaningful conversations, and a vibrant spring fiesta atmosphere that highlighted the spirit and culture of the community.

FEATURED GUEST SPEAKER

Dr. Luis Torres

Senior Business Economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas- San Antonio Branch

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

We were honored to hear welcoming remarks from our Chairman Cliffe Killam, followed by sponsor introductions from John Villarreal, Vice Chairman of Laredo EDC and Sr. Vice President of IBC Bank.  Dr. Torres shared valuable economic insights and perspectives on regional and national trends impacting businesses and communities throughout South Texas. 

 The mixer served as another successful example of LEDC’s ongoing commitment to fostering relationships among its members while creating opportunities for dialogue, collaboration, and strategic growth. LEDC extends its appreciation to all attendees and partners who contributed to making the event a memorable and impactful evening.
Generously sponsored by

IBC/Commerce Bank

 As part of the final event celebrating 2026 Economic Development Week, the Texas Workforce Commission Presentation was held on Friday, May 8, at the Haynes Recreation Center, bringing together community leaders, workforce partners, and economic development stakeholders for an insightful discussion on labor trends, workforce development, and future opportunities in South Texas. This event was presented in partnership with Workforce Solutions for South Texas.

The program opened with welcoming remarks from Cliffe Killam, who emphasized the importance of aligning economic growth with workforce readiness. Additional opening remarks were provided by Tina Rodriguez, representing the event’s facility sponsor, the City of Laredo, and highlighting the city’s continued commitment to workforce and economic development initiatives.

FEATURED GUEST SPEAKER

Brent  Connett

Commissioner, 

Representing the Public, Texas Workforce Commission 

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Commissioner Connett shared valuable insights on workforce programs, labor market trends, and strategic initiatives designed to support job seekers and employers across Texas.

The event highlighted the continued partnership between local and state organizations, reinforcing a shared commitment to building a stronger, more competitive regional workforce.

Generously sponsored by

The City of Laredo

Parks & Recreation Department

Vaswani Group

Following the Workforce Commissioner Presentation, to close the 2026 Economic Development Week, on Friday, May 8th, the Job Fair took place from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. inside the Haynes Recreation Center Gym, bringing together employers, job seekers, and workforce development leaders for an impactful afternoon focused on career advancement and economic opportunity. 

The event officially began with welcoming remarks from Cliffe Killam, Chairman of the Laredo Economic Development Corporation and President & CEO of Killam Development, Ltd., alongside Rogelio Treviño, Executive Director of Workforce Solutions for South Texas. Their opening messages highlighted the importance of workforce readiness, business growth, and strategic partnerships in strengthening the regional economy.

We were honored by the presence of Councilwoman Melissa Cigarroa, Council Member District III, whose attendance was especially meaningful as the event was held within her district. Her support underscored the importance of local leadership and community engagement in fostering economic development and workforce success.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Throughout the afternoon, attendees had the opportunity to connect directly with employers, explore career pathways, and access valuable workforce resources designed to support both job seekers and businesses.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Cliffe Killam, who reinforced the critical role of collaboration between economic development and workforce organizations in creating sustainable opportunities for the community.

In partnership with Workforce Solutions for South Texas, this successful Job Fair served as a meaningful platform to connect talent with opportunity while advancing the region’s long-term economic growth.

Generously sponsored by

The City of Laredo

Parks & Recreation Department 

Vaswani Group