Arlington’s Next Chapter: Economic Growth and Innovation

Tuesday, September 29, 2026 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM EST

National Landing Experience Center
241 18th Street S.
Arlington, VA 22202

Join the Arlington Chamber of Commerce for a can’t-miss conversation about the people, partnerships, and investments shaping Arlington’s economic future.

This event will offer the business community one of its first opportunities to hear from Anna Nissinen following her recent appointment as Chief Economic Development Officer and Director of Arlington Economic Development. Anna will share an overview of her vision and priorities for Arlington, including how the County can strengthen its competitiveness, attract and retain businesses and talent, support the evolving commercial market, and position itself for long-term growth.

The program will then turn to a timely panel discussion on the National Innovation Quarter, providing an inside look at how real estate, higher education, entrepreneurship, and industry are converging in National Landing to build one of the region’s most important emerging innovation ecosystems.

Attendees will hear directly from the organizations helping drive this work, including how National IQ is connecting innovators with talent, research, customers, investors, and government partners; advancing technologies with commercial and national-security applications; and creating new opportunities for Arlington businesses.

Whether you are interested in economic development, commercial real estate, technology, entrepreneurship, or the future of Arlington's economy, this event will provide valuable insights into the trends, partnerships, and investments driving Arlington's continued growth.

Opening Remarks

Anna Nissinen, Chief Economic Development Officer for Arlington County & Director of Arlington Economic Development 

Moderator

Andrew Painter, Walsh, Colucci, Lubeley & Walsh, P.C.

Panelists

David Baker
Associate Vice President and Chief of Staff
Virginia Tech, Greater D.C. Area

Sean Ferguson
Go-To-Market
Nooks

Tracy Sayegh Gabriel
President & CEO
National Landing Business Improvement District

Michael Manuccia
CEO
National Innovation Quarter

Agenda

8:00 - 8:45 a.m.: Registration and Networking

8:45 - 10:00 a.m.: Program

Parking and Transportation

Parking is available in the garage located at 1770 Crystal Drive, the daily max cost for parking is $23. The National Landing Experience Center is also located a short walk from the Crystal City Metro station on the Blue/Yellow line.

Registration

For registration questions, please contact Operations Manager, DJ Batchelor at chamber@arlingtonchamber.org or (703) 525-2400.

Sponsorship

We have a variety of sponsorship opportunities available for this event, including exclusive opportunities. Please contact engagement@arlingtonchamber.org for more information.

Registrations are non-refundable. While you are unable to apply registrations to future events, you may transfer your registration to another individual.