Virginia gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger meets with Greater Washington’s business community

Category: Latest Updates

Virginia gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger meets with Greater Washington’s business community

Posted on by Board of Trade

Former Congresswoman and current Virginia gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger recently engaged with our members in a discussion hosted at our office in Downtown D.C. that highlighted critical issues shaping Virginia’s future. 

Spanberger shared her vision to make Virginia the best place to live, work, and raise a family, focusing on workforce development, transportation, housing, and innovation. Her approach emphasizes collaboration between both the public and private sectors in our region to address regional challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth. 

Explore her insights on transportation priorities, technological innovation, and workforce development in our detailed recap below:

Strengthening Virginia’s Workforce 

Spanberger underscored the importance of preparing Virginia’s workforce to be ready on day one post-graduation. She aims to prioritize education, workforce training, and initiatives like paid family leave to create an environment where families and businesses thrive. A well-trained workforce, she noted, is the backbone of the economy, driving innovation and growth across sectors. 

Transportation and Infrastructure Priorities 

Transportation remains a critical area for Virginia’s economic vitality. Spanberger highlighted the integral role of the Metro system, particularly in Northern Virginia, in connecting the region and boosting the local economy. She advocated for sustained funding for regional transit systems like Metro, emphasizing their impact on commuting, tourism, and business operations. Additionally, Spanberger called for a unified statewide strategy on infrastructure, including bridges, roads, and broadband, to ensure equitable development across urban and rural areas. 

Affordable Housing and Economic Development 

Affordable housing is a widespread challenge in Virginia, affecting industrial, factory, and service workers in both urban and rural areas. Spanberger supports innovative public-private partnerships to increase housing supply and affordability, tailored to the diverse needs of the workforce. Her vision includes leveraging cross-state insights and working with builders to address unique regional challenges. 

Innovation and Technology 

Former Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger sees technology, particularly AI, as a powerful tool for advancing Virginia’s capabilities. She encouraged leveraging AI to streamline operations, identify irregularities, and drive efficiencies across sectors. By embracing AI and other innovations, Virginia can position itself as a leader in tech-driven growth. 

Veterans and Second Careers 

With its significant military presence, Virginia has a unique opportunity to attract veterans transitioning to civilian careers. Spanberger stressed the need for better communication about resources that are available to veterans through the Virginia Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring veterans have access to employment opportunities and support networks. 

Public-Private Collaboration 

Spanberger emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and businesses. From expanding broadband access to addressing workforce challenges, she pointed to public-private partnerships as essential for achieving lasting solutions. Engaging businesses in the legislative process through white papers and research ensures policymakers are informed and equipped to address evolving challenges. 

A Regional Perspective 

Spanberger also reflected on how federal policymakers perceive Virginia and the Greater Washington region. While the proximity of Northern Virginia to federal institutions offers advantages, it can also lead to regional issues being overshadowed by other priorities. Building stronger relationships between regional stakeholders and federal decision-makers is key to advancing collective goals. 

Moving Forward: A Call to Action 

Spanberger’s insights underscore the importance of collaboration and strategic planning to tackle Virginia’s most pressing issues. Whether through policy initiatives, public-private partnerships, or workforce investment, her vision offers a roadmap for creating a vibrant, equitable, and innovative Virginia. 

More policy discussions with the Board of Trade in the months to come

Thank you to Abigail Spanberger for joining us for this important discussion. We look forward to further policy discussions with leaders this spring and summer, including seperate discussions with both Virginia Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears and Maryland Lt. Governor Aruna Miller. We also have a firstside chat on airtificial intelligence with Don Beyer in early-April.

Upcoming Opportunities for Regional Government and Business Leaders:

Join us for our 105th Mid-Winter Dinner, presented by G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc., and enjoy an evening of elegance and entertainment at the Washington National Cathedral! This black-tie gala includes a delicious three-course dinner and allows you the opportunity to mix and mingle among the region’s most prominent business leaders and government officials. This is one of our premier networking events that helps our member and partner organizations fully take advantage of the Board of Trade and its connections with the community that we continue to help grow.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Join us for Coffee & Conversation, where member executives engage in interactive, peer-to-peer discussions on timely topics impacting the business community. These conversations play a vital role in shaping programs and policies that drive the region’s economic resilience, workforce development, transportation systems, technological progress, and overall health and wellness.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Letter of Support: Enable Enhanced Broadband Deployment for Improved Connectivity in Prince George’s County

Posted on by Board of Trade

About This Letter of Support: Greater Washington Board of Trade signed on to this letter of support with our member Crown Castle, which advocates for implementing Crown Castle’s Rapid Connect fiber construction method, an innovative way of building fiber to expand broadband access in our community.

We are writing to advocate for the implementation of Crown Castle’s Rapid Connect fiber construction method, an innovative way of building fiber to expand broadband access in our community. While the County’s Department of Public Works & Transportation and Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement has been engaged since the spring of 2024, we have yet to see movement on its implementation.  

Rapid Connect uses a small moving crew and safety vehicles to simultaneously cut, place, and seal underground fiber. This method meets the highest safety standards, is environmentally conscious, minimizes disruption and community impact, reduces deployment time, and blends seamlessly into our streetscape. As a result of this simplified construction process, Crown Castle can complete fiber construction in weeks instead of months, and at a fraction of the cost.  

Data demand is growing quickly. For instance, it’s expected that mobile data traffic in North America will grow by 150% by 2029. Improved connectivity is crucial for improving access to vital resources and services, including educational opportunities, digital healthcare, connected transportation, public safety and many of the Plan Prince George’s 2035 strategies. As connectivity demands surge, Rapid Connect is the fastest and most effective solution to build networks that can keep pace with each community’s growing needs. In Addition, embracing this type of innovation can help communities become broadband ready and more competitive as states allocate funding. Crown Castle has successfully rolled out Rapid Connect in neighboring communities, including Montgomery County, D.C., and Alexandria.  

We urge the County to support the adoption of Rapid Connect. Modern life depends on broadband access, and Rapid Connect can expand access much faster than traditional construction methods to foster a more connected community and ensure Prince George’s County remains competitive and prosperous. 

Sincerely, 

Ashley Greenspan 

External Affairs – DC, MD & VA 

Crown Castle 

Inauguration Day Regional Safety & Travel Guide

Posted on by Board of Trade

Stay Safe & Connected on Inauguration Day

Local and federal agencies in D.C. continue their preparations for the 60th Presidential Inauguration on Jan. 20, a pivotal time for Downtown D.C. and the Greater Washington region. This update shares information provided by transportation, government, and business leaders. Pay close attention to the resource links below for real-time information on travel and safety.

View the Public Walking Safety Map provided by Federal Officials

Safety & Transportation Information

Rally ahead of Inauguration Day at Capital One Arena on Jan.19

A rally is scheduled to take place ahead of Inauguration Day at Capital One Arena on Sunday, Jan. 19. According to the DowntownDC BID, which is following a variety of closure and parking information for Downtown residents and businesses, these streets will be closed to vehicle traffic on Sunday, January 19, 2025, from approximately 12:01 a.m. to approximately 6:00 p.m.:

  • 7th Street from H Street NW to E Street NW
  • 6th Street from H Street NW to E Street NW
  • 5th Street from H Street NW to E Street NW
  • G Street from 9th Street NW to 7th Street NW
  • G Street from 6th Street NW to 4th Street NW
  • F Street from 9th Street NW to 4th Street NW

Learn more about the rally from here: https://bit.ly/4gV2evM

WMATA sets route and station closures for Inauguration Day

Beginning Sunday, Jan. 19, until Tuesday, Jan. 21, buses will detour daily due to the 60th Presidential Inauguration and specific Metrorail transit stations will be closed in the Downtown area including Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Station, Federal Trianlge Station, McPherson Square Station, Mt. Vernon Square/7th Street-Convention Center Station, and the Smithsonian Station.

Please allow additional travel time and avoid the area if possible. Learn about all the closures WMATA has announced here: https://bit.ly/407R1Rl

D.C. Government & Metropolitan Police Department

D.C. officials and leaders will be on high alert for Inauguration Day and the large number of people and activities going on downtown. Inauguration Day is a National Special Security Event, which helps D.C. get better support from federal law enforcement agencies and the military to keep the District safe. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and her office are helping residents in the region better understand traffic restrictions during Inauguration Day, which can be viewed here: https://bit.ly/4g6bkow

In addition, MPD is working with local and federal authorities to keep people in the downtown area safe and is providing updates here. Please report threats and emergencies to 911. Keep your community safe by reporting suspicious activity by calling 202-727-9099, texting 50411, or visiting iwatchdc.org.

Capital Police:

The National Park Service (NPS) has instituted a partial closure in Lafayette Park and along the White House sidewalks for public safety in support of preparation and activities associated with the presidential inauguration. Closures will remain in place through February 2025. The northern part of Lafayette Park remains open for visitors and First Amendment activities. This year, work began Oct. 1 to accommodate additional time needed for a safer and more secure environment for construction activities. The Washington Post has also confirmed that Capitol Police is working with the D.C. National Guard to coordinate response needs better ahead of Inauguration Day.

For those attending Inauguration Day, review this list of prohibited items on U.S. Capitol Grounds: https://bit.ly/40yZIFO

Expect Closure to Museums on National Mall

Most museums on the National Mall in D.C. will be closed on Inauguration Day to help reduce traffic.

Learn more about these closures here: https://bit.ly/40a8pVH

Advice For Downtown Businesses

Sign up to receive real-time alerts from the District on public safety, traffic impacts, and more on election and inauguration updates by visiting alertdc.dc.gov.

ReadyDC has resources to help businesses create emergency plans, protect critical information, and improve your workforce’s personal preparedness efforts. Learn more by visiting ready.dc.gov/business.

Report suspicious activity. If you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it at iwatchdc.org inform a police officer or call 911 if there is an emergency or you are in immediate danger. Also, keep up-to-date on the latest on Inauguration Day from D.C. Government here.

2024 Year in Review and 2025 Outlook

Posted on by Board of Trade

 

A YEAR OF TRANSFORMATION

In 2024, the Greater Washington Board of Trade solidified its role as a catalyst for innovation, economic vitality, and regional collaboration. Through more than 120 engagements—including policy initiatives, leadership discussions, and events—we drove meaningful progress on critical issues shaping our region’s future.

From advocating for unified transit and resilient infrastructure to driving downtown revitalization and amplifying the business voice, we delivered measurable impact. However, transformative change takes time, and our work continues.

This success is made possible by you! To our officers, executive committee, board of directors, committee chairs, initiative partners—and all of our members—thank you. Your contributions are the foundation of our success and help shape not only this organization but the future of Greater Washington.

As 2025 nears, the Board of Trade remains committed to uniting leaders around a shared vision for a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous region.

LEADING REGIONAL PROGRESS

Greater Washington is a vibrant and dynamic place, and its success depends on anticipating trends, addressing challenges, and seizing opportunities to create lasting prosperity. In a time of change and uncertainty, strategic leadership and collaboration are essential. The Board of Trade works to turn these forces into progress, ensuring our region remains a secure, resilient, and thriving place to live, work, and grow. The details on the following pages reflect this commitment to leadership, vision, and action.

Programs & Policy

Through a wide range of activities—including high-impact events, strategic communication campaigns, closed-door meetings with elected officials, support letters, testimony, committee engagements, and more— Board of Trade members spent 2024 working to:

 

Impact Through Engagement

At the heart of our success lies the power of connection and collaboration. We convene the people and organizations that drive innovation, growth, and resilience across Greater Washington. In 2024, our unmatched signature networking opportunities, strategic initiatives, and trusted networks created space for leaders to share ideas, combine resources, and achieve results that benefit the entire region.

 

  • This year, we welcomed 30 new members and maintained an exceptional retention rate of 92%, exceeding industry standards.
  • Our signature events—including the Mid-Winter Dinner, Fall Business Classic, and the Annual Meeting—saw unprecedented participation, with 70% of member organizations represented. At the 7th annual Capital Region Transportation Forum we saw 30% increase in member participation. This level of engagement underscores the strength of our network and the enduring value we create together.
  • We tailored sponsorship opportunities to align deeply with member interests and strategic goals. This includes the revitalized TD Bank Morning Star Series—a 17-year partnership—focused this year on navigating a multi-generational workforce. The series featured three sessions that engaged attendees with discussions, workshops, and actionable strategies, illustrating our commitment to meaningful engagement and value creation.
  • We revitalized our digital presence by launching a new website, enhancing accessibility and engagement for members and stakeholders. This initiative, combined with a 20% increase in social media engagement, reflects our ongoing efforts to connect and engage meaningfully with our community.
  • We amplified our voice as a leader in the region through strategic communication efforts—placing thought leadership pieces in prominent media outlets such as the Washington Business Journal and WTOP. From op-eds on regional economic challenges and public safety, to appearances on Fox5 and at key events like the Maryland Economic Development Association Winter Conference, we positioned the Board of Trade as the go-to resource for forward-thinking solutions that shape our collective future.

2024 New Members

2024 Sponsors

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025

As we build on the successes of 2024, the Board of Trade remains focused on advancing the priorities that matter most to Greater Washington. In the coming year, we will drive the DMV Moves initiative to secure long-term regional transit funding, maintain momentum on public safety to ensure safe neighborhoods and thriving business environments, and build on partnerships like the Potomac Conference to foster inclusive growth and innovation. Our continued efforts to close opportunity gaps will strengthen economic resilience and advance a more equitable and prosperous region.

The Board of Trade’s strength lies in the engagement and dedication of its members. Together, we have demonstrated what is possible when we align around a shared mission for this dynamic region.

As we look ahead to 2025, we know there will be challenges, but also countless opportunities. And as we have for 135 years, the Board of Trade stands ready.

WELCOME 2025 BOARD OFFICERS

Board members contribute to the Board of Trade’s success in several ways: they weigh in on strategic decisions; assist with the recruitment, retention, and on-boarding process of members; lend resources and make connections to bring projects closer to their goals; attend and support board meetings and other Board of Trade events throughout the year.

JOIN US!

To get involved, connect with our team to explore ways to engage your entire organization. Follow our work—subscribe to our newsletters, connect on X, LinkedIn & YouTube, and visit our newly revitalized website for insights, initiatives, and member highlights. Our events have seen unprecedented demand this year—selling out time and time again—so be sure to secure your spot early and be part of these powerful conversations and engagements.

Not yet a member? Please consider joining us –as a members, as partners for change, or both – the Board of Trade is open for business and eager to team with any organization committed to our common goal of a Greater Washington region.

Driving Regional Progress Together: 2024 Programs & Advocacy Priorities

Posted on by Comms Department

The Greater Washington Board of Trade has long been a powerful voice in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, championing policies that foster economic growth, enhance urban living, and ensure equitable development. Our extensive portfolio of work is demonstrated through a wide range of activities, including high-impact events, strategic communication campaigns, private consultations with key stakeholders, active committee engagements, and advocacy efforts that drive regional progress.

Driving Regional Progress Together

In 2024, we focused on key areas critical to the future of our region: strengthening the business climate, advancing transportation systems, cultivating innovation, and preparing our workforce for tomorrow’s challenges. Each initiative reflects our commitment to fostering collaboration, advocating for policy change, and delivering measurable results.

Improving the Overall Business Climate

A thriving business environment begins with a foundation of safety, infrastructure, and smart policy.

  • Public Safety: We actively supported the Secure DC Crime Bill, collaborating with local governments to enact policies that enhance community safety and create a stable environment where businesses can grow and residents can thrive.
  • Water Infrastructure: Partnering with the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) and other regional authorities, we prioritized sustainable water solutions, securing commitments for long-term supply and climate resilience.
  • Downtown Redevelopment: Advocating for urban renewal, we supported D.C.’s Comeback Plan and testified in favor of the BEST Act, and Downtown Arena Revitalization Act which boosts economic activity, revitalizes commercial districts, and supports job creation.
  • Regulatory Environment: We successfully advocated for streamlined processes, including securing authority to extend 5G small cell deployment in D.C., reducing barriers for businesses and driving competitiveness.

Improving Regional Transit and Transportation Systems

A connected region is a competitive region. In 2024, we championed policies that modernize transportation infrastructure and improve mobility across jurisdictions:

  • DMV Moves: As leaders of the Community Partners Advisory Group, we played a key role in advocating for dedicated regional transit funding and integrated transportation systems to reduce congestion and improve reliability for businesses and commuters.
  • I-495 and I-270 Managed Lanes Project: We supported the advancement of Maryland’s managed lanes initiative, promoting solutions that reduce congestion, improve cross-jurisdictional connectivity, and strengthen economic ties across the region.
  • Union Station Modernization: Contributing to plans for one of the region’s most important transit hubs, we supported efforts to transform Union Station into a modern, multi-modal hub that better serves the workforce and businesses.

Positioning Greater Washington as a Leading Innovation Hub

To ensure our region remains a leader in innovation, we advanced policies that accelerate technological adoption and foster collaboration:

  • Disruptive Tech and AI: Promoting innovation, we connected policymakers with industry leaders to advance the adoption of AI and other disruptive technologies, advocating for policies that unlock new opportunities for growth and efficiency.
  • Innovation Ecosystem Mapping: Launched an initiative to map the region’s innovation ecosystem, identifying key players and resources to strengthen collaboration between startups, research institutions, and businesses.

Enhancing Workforce Readiness

Preparing a skilled and adaptable workforce is essential to our region’s economic future.

  • Virginia Workforce Transition: Serving on the Virginia Workforce Transition Stakeholder Advisory Group, we supported the creation of a consolidated statewide workforce system, improving apprenticeship programs and strengthening data-sharing protections to better align skills with employer needs.
  • Pathways to Prosperity: To advance inclusive growth, we convened business leaders, government officials, and nonprofits to strengthen support for minority-owned businesses. By aligning resources across economic development, capital providers, and workforce programs, we are closing opportunity gaps and fostering entrepreneurial success.
  • 5 Generations in the Workforce: We shared best practices to help businesses address the challenges of managing five generations in the workforce, fostering collaboration and inclusivity across age groups.

Building Momentum for 2025

The policy wins and progress achieved in 2024 have created a foundation for even greater success in 2025. In the year ahead, we will continue advocating for regional solutions that strengthen our economy, modernize infrastructure, and build a thriving innovation ecosystem. By addressing emerging challenges and seizing new opportunities, we will ensure Greater Washington remains a resilient, inclusive, and forward-thinking region.

Together, we are shaping a future where businesses prosper, communities thrive, and our region leads the way in innovation and growth.

Waterway Economics: Funding increases for region’s Port of Baltimore and Port of Virginia

Posted on by Board of Trade

Our Greater Washington region must continue to invest in all types of transportation and supply-chain infrastructure to ensure our communities and businesses can thrive and adapt in the coming years.

With that, promising news has been announced concerning the two biggest ports that serve our region. Funding for the Port of Baltimore and Port of Virginia will increase after announcements from the federal and state level of U.S. government were made in recent weeks.

President Joe Biden recently announced at the Port of Baltimore that $147 million in awards for the Maryland Port Administration will support jobs by enabling the purchase and installation of zero-emission port equipment, charging infrastructure, and power improvements. It is part of $3 billion in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act that will go towards ports across the country. This is even furthered by the $580 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund 31 port improvement projects in 15 states and one U.S. territory.

As for the Port of Virginia, money from the Commonwealth of Virginia in the amount of $2.4 million for the cities of Norfolk, Newport News, and Portsmouth, all of which are vital communities that support the Port of Virginia and its efforts to serve the region’s commerce and supplies needs. The federal government has also invested $380 million in funding to bolster sustainability efforts that hope to make the port more energy efficient, and this stems from the same money being given to the Port of Baltimore through the Inflation Reduction Act. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. consists of over 360 commercial ports that account for over 95% of cargo containers that come into the country. Additionally, a study from the American Association of Port Authorities, shares that $2.9 trillion in GDP and 21.8 million American jobs stem from our country’s vital port system.

The U.S. economy depends heavily on America’s ports to connect our communities to international trade, facilitating the movement of goods between the country and the global market and generating substantial employment opportunities for workers. This dynamic of impactfulness on the U.S. economy was recently highlighted by the Port of Baltimore worker’s strike that created inflation fears for the region. 

Newly elected officials across the Greater Washington region

Posted on by Board of Trade

The Board of Trade’s policy team has tracked high-profile elections across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia that help our members and greater business community understand what changes may be coming as policy takes center-stage to start 2025 as chambers open session.

We congratulate the newly elected members of Congress, State Assemblies, and local offices and applaud their commitment to public service and the trust their constituents have placed in them. As the region’s leading non-partisan business organization since 1889, the Board of Trade is dedicated to fostering collaboration on key priorities like transportation, technology, workforce development, and economic sustainability. We look forward to working together to advance initiatives strengthening the Greater Washington region and its business community.

Angela Alsobrooks (D)

U.S. Senator for the State of Maryland

Formerly the County Executive of Prince George’s County.

Learn more about this elected official.

 

April McClain Delaney (D)

Maryland – 6th District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Garrett, Allegany, Frederick, and Washington counties. 

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Sarah Elfreth (D)

Maryland – 3rd District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Anne Arundel and Carroll counties.

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Wendell Felder (D)

D.C. Council  – Ward 7

Represents parts of the Anacostia, Hill East, Stadium Armory, and Deanwood neighborhoods of Washington D.C.

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Alyia Gaskins (D)

Mayor – City of Alexandria

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Suhas Subramanyam (D)

Virginia – 10th District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Rappahannock, Fauquier, and Loudoun counties. Also represents parts of Fairfax County and Prince William County. 

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Eugene Vindman (D)

Virignia – 7th District – U.S. House of Representatives

Represents Orange, Culpepper, Spotsylvania, Green, Madison, Fredericksburg, Caroline, King George, and Stafford counties. Also represents parts of Prince William and Albemarle counties. 

Learn more about this elected official.

 

Board of Trade hosts 135th Annual Meeting, highlighting successes and future goals

Posted on by Board of Trade

The Greater Washington Board of Trade celebrated its 135th Annual Meeting, presented by Kaiser Permanente, on November 22, 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton in Washington, D.C. This signature event has been a cornerstone of the organization’s efforts since 1889, bringing together members and partners to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and strategize for the future.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore kicked off Annual Meeting by delivering an inspiring keynote address that focused on collaboration and partnerships with the business community that resonated deeply with our commitment to advancing the Greater Washington region. With many of our members operating across this vibrant and ever-evolving area, engaging with state leaders like Governor Moore helps us stay connected and aligned with regional progress.

Attendees had the opportunity to hear directly from key leaders driving the organization’s mission forward. Outgoing 2024 Chair Steve Proctor of G.S. Proctor & Associates reflected on the year’s accomplishments, highlighting milestones in transportation, public safety, and inclusive economic growth. Jeremy Blank of Deloitte, the incoming 2025 Chair, shared his vision for the year ahead, emphasizing continued collaboration and innovation. President & CEO Jack McDougle underscored the importance of member engagement and outlined strategic priorities to ensure the Greater Washington region’s long-term prosperity.

VIDEO: Jack McDougle addresses Board of Trade membership, Greater Washington business community

View More Pictures from Annual Meeting on Flickr

Key Highlights of the Event:

  • A Year of Progress and Collaboration: The meeting spotlighted achievements in regional transportation through the DMVMoves initiative, collaborative public safety advancements like the Secure DC Act, and inclusive economic growth efforts, such as Pathways to Prosperity.

VIDEO: Outgoing 2024 Chair Steve Proctor addresses GWBOT membership

  • Looking Ahead to 2025: Attendees discussed the strategic vision for next year, including plans to advance economic revitalization and secure key designations to support regional innovation and growth.

VIDEO: Incoming 2025 Chair Jeremy Blank addresses GWBOT membership

  • Networking and Recognition: With robust attendance from industry leaders and member organizations, the event served as a premier networking opportunity and a celebration of collective milestones.

VIDEO: Kaiser Permanente’s Israel Rocha addresses Greater Washington business community

The Board’s leadership emphasized the importance of continuing to foster partnerships and maintaining engagement from members to drive initiatives forward. Members were encouraged to stay involved by attending events, engaging with staff, and leveraging opportunities to contribute to the organization’s mission.

Thank you to all our members for contributing to the work of the Board of Trade that helps our region and business community to stay competitive, engaged, productive, and inclusive to all who live and visit!

The Annual Meeting underscored the Board of Trade’s role as a powerful convener and advocate for the Greater Washington region.

In 2025, we anticipate fresh challenges coupled with abundant prospects. Drawing from our enduring legacy in this region, the Board of Trade is unwavering in its dedication to amplifying your achievements and bolstering our region’s competitiveness. We’ll advance this by nurturing stronger connections, advocating more powerfully across federal, state, and local arenas, conducting in-depth analyses, and rolling out specific programs and initiatives.

Stay up to date on Board of Trade events here: https://www.bot.org/events

Thank you to our sponsors for supporting our 2024 Annual Meeting and continuing your support for the Board of Trade and our vital work in the region:

Exploring 2024 Election business implications for the Greater Washington region

Posted on by Board of Trade

The Greater Washington Board of Trade and K&L Gates recently hosted the third installment of its 2024 Election Watch series, bringing together regional business leaders, policymakers, and experts to analyze the evolving political landscape and its potential impact on the business community.

This session panel discussion led by Darrell Conner and Karishma Page of K&L Gates, and our President & CEO, Jack McDougle, provided valuable insights into the priorities, challenges, and opportunities presented by a potential second Trump administration, highlighting key issues such as tariffs, federal workforce dynamics, and education policy.

Shifts in Support and Economic Concerns

The discussion opened with a look at demographic support for candidates, noting a trend where higher-income groups leaned toward Vice President Kamala Harris, while other income brackets showed gains for President-elect Trump. The economy remains a pivotal concern for voters and businesses alike, particularly with budget and funding challenges taking center stage.

Audience members shared perspectives on the inflationary impacts of tariffs, a hallmark of Trump’s first term. The panel highlighted the ongoing debate among economists about the long-term effects of these policies, underscoring the complexity of the issue.

Governance and Policy Execution

One of the standout themes was the potential for a shift in governance dynamics. During Trump’s first term, there was frequent uncertainty over whether policy decisions were driven by the White House or federal agencies. The panel suggested we can expect policy to be tightly controlled by the White House, as evidenced by high-profile appointments like Tom Homan as the incoming administration’s border czar.

The panel also explored the vetting and appointment process for cabinet officials, contrasting the more ad hoc approach of 2016 with a potentially more structured strategy for Trump’s second term.

VIEW MORE PHOTOS FROM THIS SERIES

Key Policy Questions

Attendees raised several pressing policy questions for the panel:

  • Federal-State Relations: Emphasizing the growing importance of state-level engagement, particularly on issues like K-12 education. Noting some skepticism within Republican communities surrounding federal involvement in education.
  • Earmarks: Observing that while earmarks represent a small portion of overall spending, there has been little recent discussion about their future.
  • Executive Orders and Regulation: A second Trump administration could likely issue a wave of executive orders on day one, potentially rolling back pending regulations and leveraging the Congressional Review Act to overturn existing policies.

Business Impacts and Workforce Dynamics

The panel spoke about the broader challenges facing businesses, from geopolitical risks and technological advancements to national security concerns. These factors are placing stress on business operations, with potential implications for federal workforce dynamics.

The panel pointed to the recent history of relocating federal agencies, noting that workforce relocation could remain a contentious issue, swinging with changes in administration.

Higher Education, Immigration, and Geopolitics

Panelists expressed uncertainty about future investments in higher education under a new administration. Immigration policy also remains unclear, though Trump’s “America-first” approach suggests a continued focus on legal immigration reform.

Geopolitical risks were another focal point. The panel discussed how these external factors could influence domestic policies, including presidential immunity and governance. Notably, Trump’s circle of allies has expanded since 2016, suggesting a more organized approach to administration planning.

Closing Thoughts

The session concluded with reflections on the long-term trajectory of U.S. governance and its impact on the business community. Panelists emphasized the need for businesses to stay agile and engaged as geopolitical, technological, and policy dynamics continue to evolve.

Thank you to K&L Gates for sponsoring this three part series that engaged our members and business community across the Greater Washington region. 

2024 Capital Region Transportation Forum engages DMV community, government stakeholders

Posted on by Board of Trade

Regional transportation leaders and agency executives from across Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia convened at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library on November 13 for the seventh annual Capital Region Transportation Forum. Co-hosted by the Greater Washington Partnership (the Partnership) and Greater Washington Board of Trade (the Board of Trade). Discussions focused on progress and challenges toward achieving sustainable funding for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), and transportation opportunities and challenges across the region. The Partnership and the Board of Trade are committed to advancing strategic transportation investments to keep our economy moving. An accessible, inclusive and efficient transportation system is essential to the prosperity of businesses and residents alike.

Partnership CEO Kathy Hollinger opened the forum by outlining priorities from the recently released Blueprint for Regional Mobility 5-Year Refresh. Informed by over 100 stakeholders, this roadmap emphasizes securing sustainable Metro funding, restoring DC as a world-class rail hub and embracing transit-oriented development (TOD).

Randy Clarke, WMATA’s General Manager and CEO, spotlighted Metro’s vital role in the region’s economy, contributing $9.4 billion in economic activity and achieving 43 consecutive months of ridership growth as of October 2024. Clarke emphasized, “Where Metro goes, the region grows,” underscoring the economic implications of a modernized and reliable Metro system. However, he warned that without long-term funding indexed to inflation and upgrades like an updated signaling system, Metro’s ability to continue to serve the region remains at risk.

VIDEO: WMATA General Manager Randy Clarke addresses transportation in Washington DC region

Charles Allen, COG Board Chair and District of Columbia Councilmember, and Paul Smedberg, WMATA Board Vice-Chair and Principal Director, kicked off the DMVMoves panel by sharing updates on the initiative’s progress. They highlighted key improvements in public safety and customer satisfaction, while emphasizing the imperative for sustainable funding for WMATA and urging business leaders to get involved. The subsequent panel, moderated by Nick Donohue, Principal at Capitol Transportation Consulting ,featured, Board of Trade President and CEO Jack McDougle, and Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill, two leaders on the DMVMoves initiative. Their discussion centered on the ongoing efforts to modernize the region’s transit system and the importance of collaborative action to address the region’s transportation challenges. Panelists stressed that these issues extend beyond Washington, DC, impacting the entire region and similar coalitions across the country. They called for business leaders to play a more active role in supporting a transit system that serves all residents and fosters long-term economic growth.

VIDEO: DMVMoves Taskforce addresses regional transportation issues at CRTF 2024

We were joined by United States Senator Mark Warner for a keynote presentation. Sen. Warner highlighted the regional benefits of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and highlighted three key priorities to ensure the vibrancy and vitality of our regional economy and future of transit: 1. Come together as a region to emphasize the expertise and efficiency benefits of concentrating federal workers in the region; 2. Accelerate return-to-office in both the public and private sectors; and 3. Continue to grow and expand regional cooperation initiatives.

VIDEO: Senator Mark Warner addresses transportation in Washington DC region

The final panel, moderated by NBC News Anchor Adam Tuss, gathered regional transportation agency executives to discuss recent progress and collaborations on regional transportation initiatives. The panelists, Virginia Secretary of Transportation W. Sheppard Miller III, Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld and Director of the District Department of Transportation Sharon Kirshbaum, shared insights on their administrations’ respective visions and regional priorities. Major long-term transportation projects discussed included the Purple Line in Baltimore, the Expansion of Union Station in Washington DC and the construction of The American Legion Memorial, each of which will support the region’s transportation system.

VIDEO: Transportation secretaries discuss transit funding, traffic congestion in Greater Washington

The region’s future depends on bold decisions and sustained collaboration to address evolving challenges. By advancing modernized, innovative transportation solutions, we can ensure a thriving and connected economy for years to come.

Special thanks to our moderator, NBC News 4’s Adam Tuss, and our sponsors—Transurban, HNTB, EXP, Northeast Maglev and WSP—for making this important event possible.

Together, we can shape the future of transportation in our region.

Watch the full recording of the 2024 Capital Region Transportation Forum:

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