About WEDA
Washington's Only Trade Association Laser-Focused on Economic Development
As Washington State’s only trade association laser-focused on economic development, WEDA is committed to recovering, retaining, recruiting and expanding jobs and re-investment in Washington State. WEDA members include economic development organizations, cities, counties, ports, tribes, businesses, education and community-based organizations that prioritize economic development.
2026 WEDA Summer Conference August 4-6, 2026
WEDA’s 2026 Summer Conference will take place August 4-6, 2026 at the Red Lion Hotel Kennewick Columbia Center. Please join fellow economic development, local government, port, business, tribal, workforce/education and community leaders from throughout Washington to learn and engage with expert speakers, legislators and professionals on the current state of Washington economic development and gain new tools and insights for economic development in your community.
Why Choose Washington?
For more information on why to Choose Washington, start with the experts at Washington Commerce:
success stories
7 Cedars Resort
Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe opened the first phase of the 7 Cedars Resort master-plan, a five story, 100 room 4-Diamond hotel in Sequim, Washington. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the Tribe has succeeded at creating an extraordinary experience on the Olympic Peninsula where the health and safety of the Tribe and the Community is their highest priority.
success stories
Port of Walla Walla
Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, the Northwest's oldest and most acclaimed wine company, and
Railex LLC, a pioneer in transcontinental perishable produce distribution, are teaming up to
create the first rail-based system to transport wine efficiently and sustainably across the U.S.
The project's cornerstone is a new Wine Services Distribution Center which will be built adjacent
to Railex's existing transload center in Wallula, Washington. Railex will invest $18-$20 million to
build and operate the 500,000 square foot bonded wine storage and distribution center. It is
scheduled to open February 2013.
WEDA Membership Has Its Benefits
WEDA is Washington State’s voice for job recovery, retention and expansion. Together with our diverse and talented membership, we advocate for a business climate that fosters job growth in our local communities and throughout Washington.
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
What Being A WEDA Member Means For You
We’re stronger together. When you partner with WEDA, you’re joining a dynamic group of economic development professionals centered around improving local economies. Our community of collaboration works to improve the outlook for all of Washington State.
Benefits
- Lobbying that delivers results
- Networking opportunities
- Professional development
- Immersive conferences
- Tools for developing jobs
- Learn best practices
Washington Economic Development Association
Did you know that 27 cities, counties or Ports in Washington are moving forward or are officially exploring using Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to invest
Washington Economic Development Association
WEDA has worked hard to "up our game" in recent years with content-rich, engaging and fun conferences. Did you know that our conferences are on
Washington Economic Development Association
As technology -- especially AI -- and economic uncertainties and affordablity challenges continue to impact our realities, workforce needs have evolved. Are we meeting the