Friday, May 19, 2023

Denver Hosts 50th Annual World Trade Day Conference, Connecting Global Businesses


The 50th Annual World Trade Day Conference is set to take place on Friday, May 19th, at the Sheraton Denver Downtown. Organized by World Trade Center (WTC) Denver, this event has become the largest international trade and investment conference in the Rocky Mountain region, drawing the participation of over 700 business professionals.

Karen Gerwitz, President & CEO of World Trade Center Denver, acknowledges the significance of this milestone, stating, "This year's Golden Anniversary is a remarkable achievement, and it is a moment of pride for the international business community in the Rocky Mountain Region." The conference will feature distinguished guests, including Governor Polis, who will present the Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting during the lunch session. Mayor Hancock will deliver the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of Denver's global connectivity. Keynote speakers throughout the day include Goldy Hyder, President and CEO of the Business Council of Canada, and Damon Pike, Principal of International Tax, Customs, and International Trade of BDO.

Themed "Connecting Global Businesses for 50 Years," the conference offers a diverse program. Attendees can look forward to three keynote speeches, twelve breakout sessions, an extensive expo with over 60 exhibits, two awards ceremonies, and an internationally-themed reception. The reception will showcase Denver International Airport's direct connections to various global destinations.

In recognition of his efforts in making Denver a more globally engaged city, Mayor Michael Hancock will receive the prestigious Ralph Peterson Global Business Community Leader Award. The award, named after the former chairman of CH2M Hill, honors individuals who have exhibited strong leadership and commitment to the success of the regional business community. Karen Gerwitz affirms that Mayor Hancock is a fitting recipient of this accolade.

Mayor Hancock's involvement in global activities, including support for sister cities and airport route expansion pursuits, has contributed to Denver's welcoming environment for international business. During his tenure, Denver International Airport has welcomed six new international airlines and added 18 new international destinations to its air service network. These strategic expansions have created jobs and positioned Denver as a thriving city and a global leader in various industries.

The 50th Annual World Trade Day Conference promises to be a momentous occasion, celebrating Denver's global connections and providing valuable insights for businesses operating in the international arena.