Business Leaders Eye Olympic Opportunities at Pasadena Summit

With the 2028 Olympics approaching, Pasadena’s business community will convene next month to explore how the global spotlight could reshape the city’s economic landscape.

The third annual Pasadena Business and Economic Summit on Oct. 21 promises to tackle pressing questions: How will the Games transform local commerce? What opportunities await?

Industry leaders will gather from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Brookside Golf Club for discussions that could influence the city’s future.

Mayor Victor Gordo will kick off the summit, welcoming a crowd expected to include executives from across the region.

Veronica Pugin, a key figure in regional economic development, headlines the speaker lineup. As vice president of industry, international and business at the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation, she brings county-wide perspective to local challenges.

David Klug will outline the city’s economic development strategy. The city’s economic development director is expected to detail initiatives already underway.

The summit’s centerpiece panel, “Before the Torch: Exploring the Economic Impact of the Olympics,” brings together three executives who will help shape the Games experience.

Michael Ross leads the Pasadena Center Operating Company and understands how major events drive business. Pete Siberell oversees community projects at Santa Anita Park, a venue with deep Olympic connections. Jens Weiden runs the Rose Bowl Operating Company, managing one of the region’s most iconic sports facilities.

The event costs $90 per person and includes lunch. Corporate tables for eight people cost $1,000 and include program signage and recognition.

Free parking is available at the Rose Bowl lot next to the golf club. Street parking is also available but may have time restrictions.

Kaiser Permanente, Verizon and Wells Fargo are gold sponsors. UCLA Health is the silver sponsor.

The summit takes place at 1133 Rosemont Ave. in Pasadena. For more information, call Leanne Waggoner at (626) 795-3355 or visit https://www.pasadena-chamber.org/events/business-economic-summit-3.