Event update: Groundhog Day Economic Summit postponed
Due to winter weather expected in our area, the City of Monroe’s 16th Annual Groundhog Day Economic Summit originally scheduled for Monday, February 2 has been postponed.
The event will now take place on Monday, March 2, 2026, from 8 to 10 a.m.
(Article below was posted on January 09, 2026)
Announcing the 16th Annual City of Monroe Groundhog Day Economic Summit!
Join us Monday, February 2 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Dowd Center Theatre in Monroe (120 S Main Street) as we explore the trends, opportunities, and strategies shaping our economic future.
We’re excited to welcome Dr. Michael Walden as our keynote speaker this year. A nationally recognized economist and longtime authority on North Carolina’s economy, Dr. Walden is the William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus at North Carolina State University and a familiar voice across television, radio, and print media. Known for translating complex economic trends into clear, practical insight, he brings decades of research, public service, and real-world perspective to the conversation.
The event will include time for networking with other business and community leaders and a presentation followed by a Q&A session with Dr. Walden.
As part of Monroe’s America 250 recognition in 2026, the Groundhog Day Economic Summit will spotlight some of the City’s longest-operating businesses and examine what their history can teach us about long-term economic success.
Don’t miss this chance to prepare your business for the future.
The event is free, but registration is required. Register here: tinyurl.com/MonroeGroundhogDay2026
Missed last year's event? Watch the recording on YouTube.
Follow the City of Monroe on Facebook for updates and additional event details.