JOIN US FOR AN INTER-CITY VISIT: TOPEKA AND LINCOLN EXPLORE BOISE presented by olsson!
The Greater Topeka Partnership and the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce are excited to announce a joint intercity visit to Boise, Idaho, presented by Olsson, scheduled for July 2024. Together, we’ll embark on a journey of learning, collaboration, and inspiration!
Purpose of the Visit:
This unique trip aims to unite community leaders, business executives, and passionate stakeholders from Topeka and Lincoln for exclusive opportunities to foster discussion, promote innovative ideas, and inspire learning of best practices for community advancement.
During the 2024 intercity visit taking place July 16-19, representatives from both Lincoln and Topeka will embark on a journey of discovery to learn from one of the fastest growing cities in the country. Boise, a vibrant and forward-thinking community will offer opportunities for collaboration and learning. Topeka and Lincoln share unique roles as capital cities with Boise. Boise also offers experience as a partnership model, leader in riverfront development, progress in innovation and entrepreneurship, and boasts a thriving downtown and arts district which has been recognized nationally for its placemaking work. By seeing firsthand the accomplishments and effective strategies employed by Boise, leaders from Lincoln and Topeka hope to gain valuable insights that galvanize new opportunities in their local markets.
Building on a Legacy of Learning:
For over 20 years, the Topeka Partnership has been at the forefront of organizing inter-city visits. Our past journeys have taken us to Des Moines, Chattanooga, Montgomery, Fort Collins, Tulsa, and most recently, Northwest Arkansas with Lawrence, Kansas. These trips have been instrumental in spurring creative solutions and fostering collaboration. We are excited to welcome the Lincoln Partnership to this enriching tradition as they embark on their first inter-city visit.
Momentum 2027 and Beyond:
Inter-city visits are a vital part of the ongoing Momentum 2027 initiative—a holistic Topeka community strategy spanning five years. These visits provide a platform to explore successful models and approaches from other communities. We are dedicated to implementing forward-thinking ideas that address our current challenges. Learning from each other’s experiences, Topeka, Lincoln and Boise are committed to achieving economic prosperity for all members of our respective communities.
"We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Lincoln team on this remarkable intercity visit to Boise. We’ve had our eyes on Boise for a while because they’re a community on the rise that has a lot to teach us. Being able to make the trip with our friends from Lincoln is such an amazing opportunity and a first for our two cities. This initiative is a glowing example of the type of collaboration that enables Topeka to lean into learning, as we amplify the impact of our growth in the region. Together, Topeka and Lincoln are building stronger futures for our communities.
“The intercity visit to Boise is an extraordinary chance for our cities to unite, expand our horizons, and harness the collective power of shared knowledge. We’re eager to make this trip with our partners in Topeka and know there will be no shortage of synergistic moments. By seeking new opportunities and embracing innovative ideas, we can elevate our cities to new heights, unlocking potential that will benefit our citizens and businesses alike for years to come.”
What to Expect:
During our visit to Boise, we will engage in dynamic discussions, interactive sessions, and site visits. You’ll have the unique opportunity to connect with local elected officials, community leaders, and like-minded individuals from both Topeka and Lincoln. This networking component will encourage collaboration and the exchange of ideas, fostering lasting relationships that transcend geographic boundaries.
6:00 pm Welcome Reception Grove Hotel
8:00 pm Dinner on your own
7:45 am Kickoff Breakfast Grove Hotel
8:30 am Opening Remarks/Panel Introductions
- Matt Pivarnik, CEO – Greater Topeka Partnership
- Jason Ball, CEO Lincoln Chamber
8:40 am Boise Leadership Welcome Panel
Moderated by Matt Pivarnik and Jason Ball
- Bobbi-Jo Meuleman, CEO – Boise Metro Chamber
- Clark Krause, Executive Director – Boise Valley Economic Partnership
- Rhonda McCarvel, Sales Manager – Visit Boise
This panel highlights Boise’s current landscape, focusing on its dynamic growth drivers and prioritized industry sectors. By exploring Boise’s transformation over the past decade, we delve into the city’s evolving workforce and talent strategies, setting the stage for informed discussions on its present and future trajectory.
9:45 am Mayor’s Welcome Address
- Mayor Lauren McClean – City of Boise
Mayor Lauren McLean, the first woman elected in 150 years to lead Boise, welcomes guests and shares her perspective on the City of Boise, addressing the issues that face the community and what opportunities exist.
10:05 am Mayoral Panel Discussion
Moderated by Matt Pivarnik and Jason Ball
- Mayor Lauren McClean – City of Boise
- Mayor Michael Padilla – City of Topeka
- Leiron Gaylor Baird – City of Lincoln
This panel features Mayor Lauren McLean from Boise, Mayor Michael Padilla from Topeka, and Mayor Leiron Gaylor Baird from Lincoln. Together, they’ll discuss common challenges and share innovative solutions facing each community.
10:45 am Agenda Overview/Dismiss Groups to Boise Centre
- John Koop, Vice-President of Resource Development & Events, Greater Topeka Partnership
11:00 am Homelessness and Safety Panel – Boise Centre
Moderated by – To Be Announced
Dive into an important panel on homelessness and community safety. Discover Boise’s approach, crafting solutions that ensure a downtown known for cleanliness and safety. Explore innovative strategies to address homelessness while fostering vibrant, secure environments for all residents.
12:00 pm Lunch Provided – Warehouse Food Hall
The Warehouse Food Hall in Boise, Idaho resurrects both craft & character with the introduction of 20+ restaurant and retail tenants. This Boise market will showcase a dynamic dining space in the heart of Boise’s BoDo district known for shops, art, dining, attractions and more.
4:00 pm Happy Hour Provided – Hap Hap Lounge
Take a break and network in this exciting gathering space located above the Treefort Music Hall in Downtown Boise. The Hap Hap lounge serves up music-inspired cocktails, lil snacks, groovy tunes, and delightful surprises with a sky view.
6:30 pm Dinner Provided
Dinner awaits you at Boise’s iconic Restaurant Row. Join friends or make new ones from Topeka or Lincoln over an incredible meal. Choose from four fantastic options. Indulge in farm-to-table delights and craft cocktails at Fork. Savor gourmet burgers and an array of craft beer and whiskey at Eureka. Experience Italian cuisine with local ingredients at the cozy trattoria, Alavita, or enjoy hand-tossed pizzas, creative pastas, and robust dishes at Juniper. Join us for an unforgettable dining experience!
TRACK 1: BOISE DOWNTOWN TOUR (2.25 Hours)
1:00 pm Walking Tour with Downtown Boise Representatives
Theme: Downtown Branding and Placemaking
- Tour commences from Food Hall
- Capital City Public Market (activated community plaza)
- Freak Alley Gallery (alley activation)
- Restaurant Row (Pedestrian Only Corridor)
3:00 pm Placemaking and Branding presentation
Downtown Boise President, Jenn Hensley Executive Director
Dive into the success story of Downtown Boise’s transformation into a thriving economic center and vibrant destination. This panel explores the unveiling of its new brand, symbolizing a forward-looking vision for the district. Discover the strategies and innovations driving Downtown Boise’s emergence as a dynamic hub of activity and growth.
TRACK 2: COMBAT BLIGHT THROUGH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TOOLS
Join our panel discussion on Boise’s successful combat against blight through strategic Urban Renewal District programs. Learn how this vital economic development tool attracts investment and revitalizes distressed areas. Featuring Boise’s economic development leaders, the panel includes a bus tour showcasing recent district improvements, offering valuable insights into urban renewal strategies.
7:00 am Buffet Breakfast Grove Hotel
9:00 am Innovation and Entrepreneurship Boise Centre
Moderated by – pending
Panel participants – pending
Discover Boise’s journey to becoming a tech and innovation hub in this panel featuring economic development leaders. Gain insights into the city’s strategies for attracting tech talent and fostering a thriving startup ecosystem. Learn firsthand how Boise is shaping its future as a destination for the next generation of tech workers and entrepreneurs.
10:15 am Powering Philanthropy for Growth
Moderated by – Alec Gorynski, CEO Lincoln Community Foundation
Panel participants – pending
This panel discussion moderated by the Lincoln Community Foundation, featuring philanthropic leaders in Boise will explore the transformative impact of charitable investment on community prosperity. Delve into how strategic philanthropy drives economic growth and fosters sustainable development, shaping Boise’s future for generations to come.
12:00 pm Catered Basque Lunch
Tony Eiguren, Basque Market
Enjoy a delicious meal prepared by Boise Chef Tony Eiguren. The Basque Market is an important cultural center and museum dedicated to the preservation of Basque history and culture. Discover the origins of this community in Boise and how Basque cuisine serves to bring the community together.
4:30 pm Cocktail Reception Grove Hotel
5:30 pm Optional Excursion OR Dinner on Your Own
TRACK 1: Riverfront Park Development, Boise Art Museum, Boise History Museum, Zoo Boise and Boise State University (BSU) (2.25 Hours)
2:30 pm Boise Park & Rec Representatives – Outdoor Park Theater
Speakers: To be announced
This excursion will feature opening remarks from local parks and rec officials about how Boise has shaped it’s community into one of the premier walkable cities in the country. Discover over 190 miles of connected trails developed through their river to ridge system, explore the Boise Greenbelt, a 25 mile tree lined path that follows the Boise River, or explore the Boise Zoo, Anne Frank Museum, or Boise Library.
TRACK 2: PUBLIC POLICY IN A CAPITOL CITY (2.5 Hours)
Speakers to be Announced
Tour the beautiful Boise State Capitol Building and hear from state elected officials about public policy priorities in Boise and how being a Capitol City presents unique challenges and opportunities for advocacy.
Discover Boise Valley Wine Country (6:15 – 8:30 pm tour)
This optional wine tour takes select guests on a tour of the renowned Boise Wine Country. With over 20 wineries spanning 1,300 acres of vineyards, guests will enjoy a delightful dining experience with a sommelier. Discovering the variety of wines produced in the Idaho wine valley.
7:30 am Buffet Breakfast Grove Hotel
8:00 am Closing Remarks from Matt Pivarnik, CEO Greater Topeka Partnership and Jason Ball, CEO of The Lincoln Chamber
8:30 am CONCLUSION
Get Involved:
Sponsorship opportunities are available to support this impactful initiative. To explore sponsorship options, Topeka businesses please reach out to John Koop or Ashlee Spring. Lincoln businesses please reach out to Jason Ball.
Ticket Sales:
Stay tuned for updates on ticket pricing and availability. Once we finalize our travel plans, tickets will go on sale, and we anticipate high demand. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience! In our last two trips, we had the privilege of welcoming over 100 participants, and this time, we aim to build an even more dynamic and diverse group of attendees.
Secure your spot early and be among the select leaders who will shape the future of our communities through this extraordinary inter-city visit!
Join us on this exciting inter-city visit, as Topeka and Lincoln embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration in Boise. Together, let’s learn from one another, forge meaningful connections, and propel our communities forward. Stay connected for more updates and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Agenda
Tuesday – July 16, 2024
- Cocktail Networking Reception
Wednesday – July 17, 2024
- Welcome Panel
- Elected Leader Panel
- Homeless & Safety Panel
- Warehouse Food Hall Lunch
- Specialized Interest Tracks
- Downtown Branding & Placemaking
- Urban Renewal Districts & TIF
- Happy Hour Networking @ Hap Hap Lounge
- Dinner @ Restaurant Row
Thursday – July 18, 2024
- Mountains & Plains Innovation Panel
- Powering Philanthropy for Growth
- Basque Center Lunch with Chef Tony Eiguren
- Specialized Interest Tracks
- Riverfront Park Development
- Boise Politics & Capitol Tour
- Cocktail Networking Reception
- *Optional Excursion
- Boise Wine Country
Friday – July 19, 2024
- Breakfast Breakdown
Presenting Sponsor
Sponsors
This trip wouldn’t be possible without our sponsors. Please take a moment to thank them for their contributions.
About the Greater Topeka Partnership:
The Greater Topeka Partnership is a dynamic organization committed to advancing economic prosperity and enhancing quality of life for all residents in the greater Topeka area. Founding organizations of the GTP are collaborative in nature and include Downtown Topeka Inc., GO Topeka, the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce, and Visit Topeka Inc. For more, visit TopekaPartnership.com.
About the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce:
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce serves as Lincoln’s lead business organization championing the city’s innovative, bustling business community. The chamber is a convener and collaborator, bringing a variety of voices together to grow the city and move it forward. For more, visit LCOC.com.