2026 Economic Forecast Presentation


Join us for a forward-looking conversation on what’s ahead for Austin and the surrounding cities in 2026. This dynamic discussion will highlight projected growth trends, significant developments reshaping our region, and the economic drivers influencing Central Texas’ momentum. Hear from leaders who are helping shape that future and gain insights to guide your work in the year ahead. 

Deadline to register is Friday, January 9 at 3pm.

This luncheon is sponsored by




Attendees will receive a gift bag, while supplies last,
from our friends at Blo Blow Dry Bar. 

MODERATOR:

Darcy Sprague is the Austin managing editor for Community Impact, where she oversees a newsroom of almost two dozen editors and reporters covering communities across Central Texas through 12 hyperlocal, monthly print editions and daily digital reporting. She has more than a decade of experience in journalism. Her past bylines can be found in the Los Angeles Times, the Hechinger Report and numerous local publications. She also worked in TV news and in tech. When she is not at work, Darcy can be found with her two rescue cocker spaniels, reading or swimming. 

PANELISTS:

Ann Eaton serves as the Assistant Director for the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department. In her role, she oversees the areas of Workforce Development, Childcare, Small Business and Business Expansion and Incentives. Ann has over 10 years of experience in local government which first began as a Management Fellow for the City of Austin in 2014. Additionally, Ann served in several roles for the City of San Antonio in areas of executive support in the City Manager’s Office, Arts, Economic Development and Home Preservation and Affordable Housing.

Arthur Jackson joined the City of Cedar Park in April 2024 as Chief Economic Development Officer, where he oversees the City’s economic development and tourism efforts. With more than 15 years of experience, he previously led major regional organizations including Tulsa’s Future—securing the largest and second-largest economic development deals in Oklahoma history—and served for over five years with Opportunity Austin, landing projects with companies such as Tesla, Apple, and Merck. His career also includes eight years in the private sector, bringing strong business insight to his public-sector leadership. Jackson has been recognized as a Top 40 Under 40 economic developer, helped Tulsa’s Future earn International Economic Development Council’s Organization of the Year in 2023, and has led Cedar Park to national recognition for innovation. In 2025, he was named one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers. He serves on multiple regional boards and holds an Executive MBA and a BBA in Marketing from Prairie View A&M University.

Holly Malish serves as the Executive Director of Economic Development for Lockhart EDC and is responsible for the City's economic development efforts, including creating opportunities for employment, capital investments, and ensuring a robust economy. Prior to her role in Lockhart, Holly was the Deputy Director of the City of Schertz and the Economic Development Director for New Braunfels EDC. Holly graduated from Texas State with a degree in Public Relations, is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute and has a Certified Economic Development certification. With almost 20 years of experience, Holly has dedicated her time and passion to helping communities cultivate a vibrant and diverse economy.

Please note luncheon pricing has been updated to account for rising event costs.
Reminder all net proceeds continue to benefit the AWM Austin Scholarship Fund.

Board Member: $30
           Member: $40
   Non-Member: $45
Walk-ins: $50

NO SHOWS WILL BE BE BILLED/ALL SALES FINAL