Agenda
As international companies enter a new market, they often struggle to find the right local partners to integrate into this complex region. The needs of international companies are unique, and a holistic strategy must be carefully developed to navigate business channels and discover the right opportunity in Los Angeles. This is the essence of the Select LA Investment Summit. Select LA provides international and local companies with a comprehensive understanding of the region’s investment ecosystem with actionable insights that can guide key business decisions.
Select LA Summit - May 8, 2025
INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL, DOWNTOWN LA
8:00AM–9:00am
Registration and Breakfast
9:00AM–9:30am
Opening Remarks
9:30AM–10:30am
Morning Plenary Session
“LA in 2025: Celebrating a decade of impact, designing a decade of opportunity”
Los Angeles has emerged from a transformative decade. This opening session reflects on LA’s progress as a global economic powerhouse since 2015, and outlines the roadmap to 2035. Leaders from the public and private sector will explore how LA’s thriving manufacturing, logistics, and innovation ecosystems are driving inclusive growth – and how they are revitalizing the economy following the 2025 wildfires. With the 2028 Olympics on the horizon and deep investment in talent development, the city is poised to lead the U.S. and the world in connectivity, sustainability, and opportunity for the next decade.
10:30AM–11:00Am
Coffee Break & Networking
11:00AM–12:00pm
Breakout 1: Trade & Logistics
“Trade & Logistics: the beating heart of LA’s global economy”
As North America’s global trade nexus, LA’s trade and logistics ecosystem is the cornerstone of the regional and national economy, with 1 in 58 jobs across the entire U.S. supported by the trade flowing through local ports. This session dives into how seaports, airports, and inland freight networks are evolving in response to global tariff shifts, supply chain resilience, and climate change. Panelists will discuss innovations in infrastructure, workforce development, and sustainability that keep LA globally competitive and essential to international commerce.
Breakout 2: Industry Clusters
“Innovation Clusters: Growing industries in LA”
LA’s industry clusters – spanning aerospace and defense, advanced transportation, biosciences, sports & entertainment, and more – are reshaping the city’s economic future. This session explores how targeted investment, public-private partnerships, and a robust talent pool are fueling these emerging sectors. Experts will share how LA’s approach to industry cluster development supports startups, scales R&D, and attracts foreign direct investment, positioning the region as a global innovation hub.
12:00PM–12:15pm
Short Break
12:15PM - 12:45pm
Lunch
12:45pm - 1:30PM
Keynote Speeches
Business, Government, Diplomatic
1:30pm - 2:30PM
Lunch Plenary
“Launch of the 2025 California Foreign Investment Report”
This much-anticipated session unveils the latest data and trends shaping foreign direct investment in California. With insights into sectoral growth, international partnerships, and geographic trends, the report provides essential insights for global investors and local leaders. Attendees will hear how regions like LA are leveraging their unique assets – including logistics infrastructure, innovation clusters, and a diverse talent base – to drive inbound investment and economic resilience.
2:30PM–3:30pm
Breakout 3: Manufacturing
“Made in LA: solutions for manufacturers across industries”
Los Angeles is North America’s single largest manufacturing hub, powered by advanced technology, skilled labor, and a strong supply chain network. This session highlights how local manufacturers are innovating across aerospace, apparel, food, and tech, while embracing sustainability and innovative supply chain strategies. Panelists will discuss how LA’s ecosystem supports manufacturers with access to ports, workforce training, and government incentives, cementing its reputation as the manufacturing hub for the next generation.
2:30PM - 3:30pm
Breakout 4: Sports & Entertainment
“LA’s Sports Economy: technology, entertainment, community”
With the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, LA’s sports economy is booming. This session explores how investment in sports infrastructure and entertainment is driving innovation, community development, and global engagement. From tech-enhanced fan experiences to career pipelines in sports-related industries, panelists will discuss how LA’s unique intersection of culture, commerce, and competition is creating lasting economic opportunity.
3:30pm - 4:30PM
Closing Plenary
“World Trade in 2025: navigating uncertainty, seizing opportunity”
Global trade in 2025 is marked by shifting tariffs, evolving relationships, and emerging markets. This session examines how LA – home to North America's busiest port complex – is adapting to new trade dynamics while continuing to attract foreign investment. Speakers will discuss strategies for resilience, including diversification, policy advocacy, and public-private collaboration, examining LA’s role as a vital node in global commerce amid ongoing uncertainty.