Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce > Events > The Blue Economy and Chicago’s Economic Future: Corporate Water Leadership, Workforce Pathways, and Regional Resilience

Tuesday, May 05, 2026 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

The Blue Economy and Chicago’s Economic Future: Corporate Water Leadership, Workforce Pathways, and Regional Resilience

Water has always been central to Chicago’s identity—but today, it is also central to the region’s economic future.

This event is affiliated with Chicago Water Week, presented by Current, a weeklong, citywide celebration that highlights the critical role water plays in our economy, communities, and environment, the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce and Current will convene business, civic, and workforce leaders for an in‑depth conversation on the blue economy and what it will take for Chicago to lead in a more water‑secure future.

Moderated by Jack Lavin, President & CEO of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, this panel brings together leaders at the forefront of water innovation and corporate sustainability to explore how water stewardship is increasingly tied to business strategy, resilience, and growth.

The conversation will examine how water underpins innovation across industries, from food and manufacturing to energy and technology, and why forward‑looking companies are elevating water as a core pillar of sustainability and risk management. Panelists will share perspectives on how businesses are setting and operationalizing water commitments, partnering across sectors, and aligning corporate action with regional water challenges and opportunities.

With a strong focus on workforce pathways, the discussion will also explore the skills, talent pipelines, and partnerships needed to prepare Chicago’s workforce for careers connected to water, climate resilience, and the growing blue economy. As water challenges become more complex, and more urgent, cross‑sector collaboration between business, utilities, civic leaders, and nonprofits will be essential to unlocking economic opportunity while protecting one of the region’s most vital resources. Join us for a timely and thought‑provoking dialogue during Chicago Water Week on how Chicago’s business community can help shape a resilient, inclusive, and competitive future—powered by water.