Register for the WAM and WEDA Winter Workshop

Economic development professionals and elected officials across Wyoming can prepare for the 2027 legislative session and learn about essential issues at the WAM and WEDA Winter Workshop. The conference will be held in Cheyenne from January 20-22 at the Red Lion Inn. The event features three days of guest speakers, breakout sessions, and a vendor village.

“Advocacy is a major part of what we do, and we intend to use this conference to focus on key issues affecting Wyoming residents,” says Ashley Harpstreith, WEDA Administrator. “When we speak with a united voice and focus on the facts, we can make a difference.”

The breakout sessions are designed to help attendees focus on topics relevant to their needs. There will also be plenty of time for networking, so representatives from different municipalities can work together. 

Register Now to Secure Your Spot

Registration is now open for the WAM and WEDA Winter Workshop, with tickets starting at $270 for members and $240 for first-time attendees. This ticket includes all three days of activities plus meals. There are also non-member tickets available for $400 and single-day tickets for $165.

WAM and WEDA also allow attendees to bring spouses or guests. There is space on the registration form to include them and choose their preferred meals. Conference planners will also do their best to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences.

Register in advance to secure a spot, select your preferred meal choices, and let us know if you would like a seat on the transportation trolley. You can also review alternative hotels in Cheyenne. 

Find Breakout Sessions and Discussions For You

The Winter Workshop covers a variety of topics to cover different trends and needs in Wyoming communities. The agenda will be finalized in the coming weeks, but here are a few high-level focus areas for 2026:

1. Effective Governance: Promoting constructive dialogue, responsible leadership, effective public meetings, and collaboration.
2. Municipal Finance and Fiscal Sustainability: Addressing municipal budgeting, revenue diversification, grant opportunities, tax policy, and financial management.
3. Economic Development and Community Growth: Exploring data center development, industrial siting, housing policy, and balancing opportunities with community needs.
4. Local Authority and Regulatory Responsibilities: Examining home rule, municipal legal obligations, legislative developments, and regulatory frameworks.
5. Infrastructure and Public Safety: Highlighting water system responsibilities, emergency services, transportation, and infrastructure planning.
6. Intergovernmental Collaboration: Strengthening relationships among municipalities and community-driven decision-making.

Come prepared with questions, specific projects, and concerns you want to discuss. Most breakout sessions are designed to be dynamic, with opportunities for attendees to share ideas and showcase how they overcame similar challenges. 

The Conference is Accepting Vendors and Sponsors

The WAM and WEDA Winter Workshop is a great opportunity for companies to promote themselves to economic development teams and elected officials. Contact Earla Checchi at earla@wyomuni.org if you are interested in participating in the vendor village or in sponsoring one of the sessions, a meal, or part of the conference.

Your contribution to the WAM and WEDA Winter Workshop helps grow economic development in the state, creating jobs and opportunities for residents while strengthening our industries. The conference is also a valuable way to grow your business and speak directly to your customers. 

Reach Out With Any Questions 

WAM and WEDA welcome new attendees to the 2027 Winter Workshop. If you aren’t sure whether this conference is right for you or have additional questions about the agenda, events, and sponsorships, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact our team at WEDA, and we’ll do our best to answer questions or find someone who can.

There’s a bright future for Wyoming and the economic development professionals here. Let’s come together and start the year off strong. There’s a lot of work to do!