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Economic Forecast & Central Mass Real Estate Forum

WBJ 2025 Central MA Economic Forecast & Real Estate Forum

Thank you to all of our speakers, sponsors and everyone who joined us for the 2025 Central MA Economic Forecast and Real Estate Forum!

Click here to view presentation slides from Mark Melnik, Ph.D., Director, Economic and Public Policy Research, Donahue Institute UMass Amherst

Click here to view the event program book.

Worcester Business Journal's annual Central MA Economic Forecast Forum in partnership with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, takes a look at the economic climate of the past year, current national and regional data along with key trends looking forward. 

Join us for this annual breakfast forum featuring an expert economist who will help us navigate the intricate web of economic trends. Discover the pulse of today's economic climate as we delve into insightful analyses and forecasts that will shape our economic landscape.

The 2025 program will also place a focus on the region’s real estate market. When it comes to fueling growth in our region, real estate is the straw that stirs the drink. Central MA has a number of competitive advantages, but uneven supply and demand have made some sectors hot, while others are struggling with excess inventory. Industry leaders will share their insights and outlook for the region’s dynamic real estate market and where they see it going in the coming year.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain exclusive insights and network with industry leaders!

Timeline:

7:15 - 8:00AM - Buffet Breakfast/Networking

8:00 - 8:15AM - Welcome Remarks

8:15 - 8:45AM - Keynote Presentation

8:45 - 8:55AM - Audience Q&A w/economist

9:00 - 10:00AM - Panel Discussion I

10:15 - 11:15AM - Panel Discussion II

11:30AM - Closing Remarks

Panel l - State of the Market: Regional Development Updates 

Panel ll - Adaptive Reuse and Housing Innovation

WBJ Web Partners

Keynote Economist:

  • Mark Melnik, Ph.D.
    Director, Economic and Public Policy Research, Donahue Institute UMass Amherst

Panel I - State of the Market: Regional Development Trends Updates

MODERATOR

  • Darnell Dunn
    Director of Business Development, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce

PANELISTS

  • Meagen Donoghue
    Executive Director, Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority
  • Brittany Gesner, PE
    Director of Land Development, Worcester, VHB
  • Brian Poitras
    Director of Capital Markets, GFI Partners
  • Peter Staiti
    SVP, Regional Executive for Commercial Banking, Rockland Trust

Panel II - Adaptive Reuse and Housing Innovation

MODERATOR

  • Samantha McDonald
    Partner, Bowditch

PANELISTS

  • Meredith Harris
    Executive Director, Marlborough Economic Development Corp (MEDC)
  • Katie Krock
    Manager, Commerce Associates
  • Tim Reardon
    Chief of Data and Research, Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
  • Anthony Rossi
    Principal, Rossi Development

In Partnership with

PRESENTING SPONSORS

CORPORATE SPONSORS