2024 Year in Review and 2025 Outlook

Category: Insights

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.

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

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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. 

Testimony: Downtown Arena Revitalization Act of 2024 (DC B25-1004)

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About this Testimony: The Greater Washington Board of Trade has expressed strong support for the Downtown Arena Revitalization Act of 2024, emphasizing its potential to drive economic development, boost regional vitality, and enhance downtown Washington, D.C. recovery efforts. Highlighting the Capital One Arena’s legacy of hosting over 47 million visitors and 4,500 events since 1997, the Board underscores the significant impact of this district on local businesses, tax revenue, and the city’s cultural fabric.

Dear Chairman Mendelson, 

On behalf of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, I am writing to convey our strong support for the Downtown Arena Revitalization Act of 2024. This legislation presents a significant opportunity to advance economic development, enhance our region, and preserve the dynamic atmosphere of downtown Washington, D.C. This initiative is particularly important as we strive to recover from the economic challenges of recent years.  

The proposed act aligns with the Board of Trade’s mission to advance a prosperous, inclusive, and vibrant regional economy. The revitalization of the downtown arena district, which is home to Capital One Arena and supported by our member organizations, including Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Clyde’s Restaurant Group, Capital One Bank, and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), will have a meaningful impact on the region. Since 1997 the Capital One Arean has hosted 47 million people and more than 4,500 events that support local businesses, drives tax revenue, and contribute significantly to the cultural fabric of our city. A revitalized arena district will build upon this success by attracting more visitors, creating new job opportunities, and catalyzing further investment in downtown Washington. 

Our members recognize the critical role that a modernized arena district can play in sustaining and expanding these benefits. For instance, Monumental Sports’ commitment to enhancing the fan and visitor experience will be a boon for tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors, which are vital components of the downtown economy. WMATA also stands to benefit through increased ridership, connecting more residents and visitors with downtown events and activities, and supporting the ongoing financial health of our public transit system. 

We urge the D.C. Council to move forward with this legislation and invest strongly in our community’s future. We appreciate your consideration and look forward to working together to realize the full potential of this bill. 

Thank you for your leadership and commitment to a stronger, more dynamic Washington, D.C. 

Exploring 2024 Election business implications for the Greater Washington region

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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

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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:

RPLS: Maryland officials engage region’s business community on public safety

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Recently, the Board of Trade hosted the Regional Policy Leadership Series with Maryland State Senator William C. Smith, Jr. (District 20, Montgomery County), Prince George County Council Chair Jolene Ivey, Prince George’s County Chief of Police Chief Malik Aziz, and moderator Melonie Johnson, President and COO of MGM National Harbor.

As influential leaders dedicated to public safety and its vital role in our region’s growth, the panel engaged in a thought-provoking webinar. Their work is crucial to our local business community, as they focused on key policies, priorities, and issues affecting us all.  Discussions addressed critical issues such as justice reform, workforce development, community collaboration, and initiatives to support small businesses through community policing and youth intervention programs. Together, they explored long-term sustainable solutions that can create a lasting impact on our communities.

A special thank you to Senator William C. Smith, Jr., Prince George County Council Chair Jolene Ivey, Prince George’s County Chief of Police Chief Malik Aziz, and moderator Melonie Johnson, President and COO, MGM National Harbor, for participating in this insightful and informative webinar! Watch the entire conversation in the YouTube video above.

2024 Election Resources for Greater Washington Community

Posted on by Board of Trade

Tuesday is Election Day in the US! While the presidential election will be at the top of your mind, there are many essential ballot measures, such as state and district elections, where you can vote and make your voice heard. Learn more from the resources below.

Voter Registration 

  • CanIVote.org: Managed by the National Association of Secretaries of State, this resource allows voters to check their registration status, find out how to register, and understand the voting requirements in their state. It’s an invaluable tool for ensuring that voters are ready for election day. 

Candidate Information 

  • Vote Smart: This non-profit nonpartisan organization supplies information about elections, candidates, and voting records. By promoting informed voting, it empowers citizens to make educated choices at the polls. 

Voter Support 

  • U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC): The EAC provides resources about federal voting laws, guidelines for conducting elections, and assistance for voters. This site is essential for understanding the broader context of election processes and the support available to ensure fair voting.  

Transportation 

Board of Elections 

2024 Election Regional Safety & Travel

Posted on by Board of Trade

Stay Safe & Connected This Election Season

Local and federal agencies in D.C. are actively preparing for the 2024 Presidential Election season, anticipating any potential safety concerns the region could face. Below are updates from transportation, government, and business officials regarding the week of the Presidential Election—a crucial period for Downtown D.C. and the Greater Washington area. The Board of Trade is committed to keeping our business community informed and will continue providing timely updates through Inauguration Day.

Key Dates We Will Follow:

  • Nov. 4-10: Election Week
  • Jan. 6-10: Election Certification Week in Congress
  • Jan. 19-21: Inauguration Week

Safety Information

D.C. Government:

D.C. successfully requested that the upcoming election certification on Jan. 6 be considered a National Special Security Event, a classification similarly applied to Inauguration Day by the government.

Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office hosted a media briefing on Oct. 22nd to discuss the city’s preparations for the Election Day security and the rest of the Election season, including the week of the election certification and inauguration at the beginning of next year.

Deputy Mayor Nina Albert also held a stakeholders briefing on Oct. 24th that addressed further ways the city is addressing safety concerns, including sharing that people to sign up for alerts at alertdc.gov to stay up to date with important safety and travel updates regarding election season.

The mayor’s office expressed:

  • The need for patience as it could take weeks or days for a winner to be declared in the 2024 Presidential Election
  • Please be careful about misinformation or false information about election security and activities in Downtown D.C., specifically about what is being said on social media.
  • Stay prepared for a fluid and unpredictable security environment with extremist groups and possible civil unrest.

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 key election and inauguration dates.

DC Board of Elections:

Monica Evans, the executive director of the D.C. Board of Elections, said in a recent Washington Post story thatn“The D.C. Board of Elections added armed security to its office headquarters and mail ballot processing center this year.” For more on the DC Board of Elections work during this election season check out their “checklist” for this November.

Department of Homeland Security:

The Department of Homeland Security has classified the upcoming electoral count, set for January 6, 2025, as a National Special Security Event. This designation grants the traditionally routine post-election event the same heightened security typically reserved for presidential inaugurations and political conventions. The Secret Service, which will oversee security for the count, has confirmed this arrangement.

Learn more about the election security measures being taken by DHS here.

Metropolitan Police Department:

While there has been no indication of any large-scale protests, events, demonstrations, or violent activities, MPD said in the statement to the Board of Trade that it encourages the public to remain vigilant. If you see something, say something. 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. Additionally, DC government will be in touch with business groups in the next week to schedule routine calls on security. Let me know if you need help being connected with the appropriate people scheduling those meetings.

MWCOG & Emergency Preparedness Council:

These two groups have been working hard to help share the importance of fighting mis-/dis-/mal-information surrounding the election and have been sharing information and strategies with government and business leaders on effective counterstrategiesin the context of the 2024 elections. In 2023, the MWCOG Board approved a resolution calling for continued regional participation in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), which provides local and state election officials with voter reports to prevent fraud and ensure accuracy. The board continues to encourage full participation by the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia in this resource. COG also convenes a regional Election Officials Technical Committee to coordinate and share information across jurisdictions.

Transportation Information

Election Night Traffic Updates

Vice President Kamala Harris will be having her Election Day headaquaters at Howard University, which has led to traffic reroutes in the area. Below is the map:

Inauguration Day Route Preparations in Downtwon D.C.

Right now, DDOT is planning to repave the Inauguration Day route and this could cause delays as this work continues through parts of Election Season. Below is a look at the Inauguration Day route (labled in red below) that extends from the White House to the U.S. Capitol Building. Pedestrian walking routes are also labled below in green and are vital to know if you will be in the area on Inauguration Day.

Inauguration Day Vehicle Access in Downtwon D.C.

Mayor Bowser met with D.C. Council recently to discuss safety preperation for Inauguration Day. In her presentation, her office included the vehcile access points for Inauguration Day from 2021, highlighting there will likely be a similar concept for Inauguration Day for this election cycle. Below is a look at the limited access drivers will see. The National Park Service has not released road closures yet, but you can check for more as they prepare for Inauguration Day here.

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 Inuauguration Day from D.C. Government here.

The Future of Communications: AI’s Role in Shaping Corporate Strategy

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On September 10, the Board of Trade, in partnership with Grayling Communications, launched its Coffee & Conversation series, bringing together industry leaders to explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in corporate communication strategies. As AI continues to reshape how businesses interact with their audiences, manage reputations, and streamline operations, it’s crucial for organizations to stay informed and adaptable. Grayling provided invaluable insights into both the opportunities and challenges presented by this transformative technology.

The session highlighted practical strategies for integrating AI responsibly into communication functions, with a focus on human empowerment and organizational progress. Below, we recap the key takeaways and offer a summary of Grayling’s presentation, providing a roadmap for businesses looking to leverage AI effectively.

Key Insights from the Discussion

  • AI Evolution and Future Trends
    AI tools are rapidly advancing, and we’re on the cusp of seeing personalized AI assistants becoming a standard business tool. Companies must prepare for AI’s continuous evolution to remain competitive in a fast-paced digital environment.
  • Shifts in the Workforce
    As with previous technological revolutions, AI will lead to significant shifts in the job market. Certain roles will disappear, while others will emerge, emphasizing the need for adaptive skill development and forward-thinking workforce strategies.
  • Human-Centric Implementation
    Successful AI adoption is not just about technology—it’s 70% about people. Ensuring that AI integrates seamlessly with human interaction is critical to unlocking its full potential. AI should augment, not replace, human decision-making.
  • Leadership and Organizational Empowerment
    AI implementation must be driven by leadership, with clear ambitions, guidelines, and oversight. Top-down leadership ensures alignment across the organization and legitimizes AI as a vital tool for business success.
  • Time Savings and Efficiency
    A major indicator of AI’s success is its ability to save time and streamline processes. Smart integration of AI can lead to significant efficiency gains, allowing organizations to focus on higher-value strategic initiatives.
  • Empowering Talent
    Companies can unlock greater value by leveraging their top-performing employees to train others in the organization on how to utilize AI. This approach fosters internal growth and strengthens the overall workforce.
  • Measuring Success through KPIs
    Cost savings and operational efficiency are the primary metrics for measuring AI success. Companies that fail to adopt AI risk being left behind, missing opportunities for enhanced competitiveness and innovation.

A Comprehensive Guide to AI in Communications
Grayling’s whitepaper, Unlocking AI Innovation from the Ground Up, dives deeper into how businesses can harness the collaboration between humans and machines to foster innovation and drive results. The whitepaper covers crucial aspects of AI adoption, from ethical considerations to practical implementation tips, making it a valuable resource for businesses navigating the AI landscape.

Looking Ahead
As AI continues to develop, businesses must stay ahead of the curve, integrating AI strategically while maintaining a human-first approach. The insights shared during the Coffee & Conversation event offer a foundation for responsible AI adoption, empowering organizations to harness the benefits of this technology without losing sight of its human impact.

For more detailed information, we encourage members to explore Grayling’s whitepaper (created in partnership with Ainigma) with and stay engaged with our upcoming events as we continue these important discussions.

Whitepaper: Unlocking AI Innovation From The Ground Up

DOWNLOAD WHITEPAPER PDF HERE

Grayling: We Create Advantage

Grayling combines its expertise and perspective with our connection to people and place to identify and understand audiences and stakeholder groups, from investors, policy makers and NGOs to consumers, creators and CEOs. Over the years, the company has helped thousands of businesses connect and communicate with the people who matter. Through mission critical, audience first, creative communications Grayling has help navigate and create the conditions for our clients to thrive now and in the future. Grayling’s work is underpinned by its belief in the importance of ‘Mission Critical, Audience First, Creative Communications’. Learn more about Grayling and how it creates advantages for its clients: https://grayling.com/what-we-do/

Election Watch: Regional business leaders gather to discuss 2024 Presidential Election

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The Board of Trade held the second part of its 2024 Election Watch series at the Downtown D.C. office of our series sponsor K&L Gates to engage members on how the 2024 Presidential Election could impact the Greater Washington region. It came only a couple weeks after the debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. 

A wide range of critical topics were discussed, reflecting the complex intersection of current political, economic, and social challenges. Attendees expressed interest in key areas such as tax policy, higher education, workforce development, and the uncertainty surrounding regulations.

Tax Policy was a central focus, with a noted emphasis on the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2025. The looming cost of extending these cuts, estimated at $4.6-$8 trillion, sparked intense debate. Republicans are inclined towards making tax provisions permanent, reducing taxes on manufacturers, and increasing taxes on large university endowments. On the other hand, Democrats emphasize no tax increases on individuals making less than $400,000, enhancing startup expense deductions, and addressing affordable housing.

Higher Education and Workforce Development were also critical themes. Multiple member representatives underscored the importance of adapting educational programs to meet the evolving needs of the workforce. They highlighted that education is not only a domestic issue but also intricately tied to global competitiveness.

The Uncertainty of Regulation was discussed from both corporate and policy angles. Member representatives pointed out the challenges of navigating shifting regulatory environments. This has been a pressing issue across sectors, affecting infrastructure, workforce, and corporate decision-making.

VIEW MORE PICTURES FROM THIS EVENT HERE

Infrastructure and Reauthorization of major public works projects emerged as another priority, member representatives focused on the need for updated transportation infrastructure in the Greater Washington region, while ensuring sustainable financing.

Regionalism continues to shape local policy initiatives, which Board of Trade members discussed. It emphasized the significance of fostering cooperation between states and local governments to ensure regional development aligns with broader national priorities.

A recurring theme was Election Integrity, as multiple attendees raised concerns about the impact of electoral processes on governance. Notably, K&L analysts stressed that for Democrats to win the Electoral College, they would likely need to secure the popular vote by a margin of at least 3%, citing challenges in accurately polling certain voter demographics, particularly Trump supporters.

The discussion also touched on identity politics, with insights about how the 2024 elections may be shaped by which candidates best represent the values and identities of voters, rather than focusing solely on political experience, such as Vice President Kamala Harris’s tenure.

Geopolitical Issues also took center stage, with concerns about the international landscape affecting domestic policy. The reliance on Chinese goods, border policies, and ongoing conflicts such as those in Gaza, Israel, Russia, and Ukraine all create external pressures that influence voters and policymakers alike.

Looking forward, the general consensus is that policymaking will remain reactive, shaped by an interplay between state and local governments. The slim majority in Congress, regardless of which party holds control, will necessitate bipartisan cooperation to move forward on key initiatives, ranging from energy policy to AI and tech workforce development.

In sum, the policy environment is in constant flux, with a wide aperture for new issue areas while balancing ongoing legislative challenges. Voters face issues ranging from housing and education to energy and international affairs, all of which will demand innovative, cross-sector solutions in the next legislative session.

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