"BEST" Conference - April 4th The 6th Annual Southwest Wisconsin Regional Economic Development Conference, called the "BEST" Conference was held on Tuesday, April 4, 2006 at Velzy Commons on the UW-Platteville Campus. The "BEST" Conference (Building Economic Strength Together) brought together business owners, entrepreneurs, educators, community leaders, lenders, government officials and economic development professionals.

David Beurle, from Australia, was the keynote speaker. He is Founder and Principal of Innovative Leadership Australia. David splits his time between Australia and the USA, as he pursues his passion for community revitalization and creating vibrant and prosperous regions. He holds a firm conviction that the future of rural areas lies in the hands of the local people. David created Innovative Leadership Australia to bring the tools and skills to the people who care the most - the people who choose to make rural towns, centers, and regions their homes.

David's work in community and economic development has earned him international, national and state awards. Recent recognition has come from his role as lead consultant and collaborative designer of the Community Progress Initiative, a joint community revitalization effort between the Heart of Wisconsin Business & Economic Alliance and the Community Foundation of South Wood County in Central Wisconsin.

Southwest Wisconsin Regional Economic Development Coalition exists to:

• Support existing regional and community economic development initiatives.
• Facilitate new initiatives that address regional community/economic development challenges and opportunities.
• Educate regional stakeholders on ommunity/economic development issues, resources, and initiatives.

Conference Planning Committee: