Governors meet with global business leaders to advance economic growth
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Governors Association (NGA) welcomed governors to the B20 summit in Washington, D.C., this week. Hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the B20 (Business 20) brings together business leaders from the world’s 20 largest economies to discuss policies to drive economic growth. NGA Chair Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy, and Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt all joined NGA to share their vision for policies that create jobs, enhance U.S. competitiveness, and expand economic opportunity.
“Economic growth starts in the states,” said NGA CEO Brandon Tatum. “Governors are some of the most effective economic ambassadors America has, and governors of both parties are leading the way in attracting business growth and making the infrastructure investments and policy choices that keep the United States the best place to invest, build and hire. The B20 is an important opportunity for governors to show the world what states have to offer and to bring home the investments that keep America’s economy competitive.”
“We welcome the participation of governors at B20 USA,” said B20 USA Sherpa Kevin Brady. “States are playing a major role in all of the focus areas of the B20 – economic growth, innovation, trade and energy. We appreciate the partnership of the NGA in helping to make B20 USA a success.”
This year marks the first time the United States is host to the B20, which is the private sector counterpart to the G20. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce helped found the B20 in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis to support public-private sector collaboration in advocating policies that drive growth and prosperity. The three-day event featured conversations on topics like trade and investment, digital commerce, energy security, supply chains, and innovation.
As a B20 presenting partner, NGA hosted a wide array of programing to highlight state-based initiatives that create opportunity and support economic mobility:
Investment, AI, and the Heartland’s Next Chapter of Growth: Heartland Forward President Angie Cooper, McKinsey & Company’s Caroline Hegeman, and Enid Regional Development Alliance Executive Director Dr. Marcie Mack explored how heartland communities can attract capital, promote economic mobility, drive long-term growth, and use AI to open new doors for small businesses.
Cultivating Civic Understanding for a New Generation: Ibis Group Board Chair and Trustee Chi Kim joined NGA CEO Brandon Tatum for a conversation exploring how newly elected officials can prepare the next generation for work, civic life, and leadership.
Dignity and the Future State of Politics: NGA CEO Brandon Tatum welcomed Center for Dignity in Politics Founding Chair Tim Shriver to discuss promoting dignity in politics and practice – highlighting new polling from the NGA, Matter Neuroscience and the Napolitan Institute examining how voters experience the tone of American politics as a reflection of their quality of life.
Transforming Systems and Partnerships to Promote the Workforce of the Future: RAISE US President of Corporate Partnerships Janet Foutty and Jobs for the Future President and CEO Maria Flynn discussed the future of working with the business community to promote innovative partnerships across sectors, economic advancement in communities, and quality jobs for Americans.
All In: Driving Innovation in American Manufacturing: CEO Brandon Tatum welcomed National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons for a wide-ranging conversation about permitting reform and other state strategies to build a more resilient manufacturing workforce.
Policy in Practice for a Dynamic Political Landscape: NGA policy directors offered insight and analysis on the road ahead as a historic class of new governors takes office.
Check out these NGA resources to learn more about how governors are advancing economic opportunity:
