June 26 Conference Showcases Western Mass. as Ideal Place to Invest

SPRINGFIELD — The Western Massachusetts Developers Conference — a regional event aimed at connecting regional leaders and economic-development specialists with brokers, site selectors, investors, and others interested in learning about the exciting development opportunities of the region — will be held on Thursday, June 26 starting at 8 a.m. at the Basketball Hall of Fame. The conference will highlight Western Mass. as an exceptional place to invest, start, and grow businesses and will feature Roger Crandall, chairman, president, and CEO of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co., as the keynote luncheon speaker. A top 100 company on the Fortune 500, MassMutual has been recognized as a leader in the industry and an innovative employer. Crandall will share why this Springfield-based company calls Western Mass. home. In addition, the day will include information on shove-ready development opportunities, a review of the Western Mass. Value Proposition, a CEO panel sharing how the region supports business growth, and a review of recent major infrastructure investments and exciting projects on the horizon, such as the proposed MGM resort casino in Springfield. The day-long event includes a light breakfast, lunch, tours, and reception. This event is being coordinated by organizations including the Economic Development Council (EDC) of Western Mass., Economic Development Partners, MassDevelopment, and MassEcon. “The region is excited to showcase its assets to developers, real-estate investors, brokers, and corporate real-estate executives at this nuts-and-bolts conference on June 26,” said Allan Blair, president and CEO of the EDC of Western Mass. “The EDC and our many regional partners are eager to discuss the many investment opportunities throughout the Valley, and describe the resources available to those considering the region.” Gold sponsors for the conference include Baystate Health, Health New England, and Mass Mutual. The silver sponsor is Hampden Bank, and supporting sponsors include Hampden Bank, TRC Solutions, and United Bank. The event is free for attendees, but space is limited, and registration is required. For more information and to register, visit www.westernmassedc.com.