BALLE Conference 2011

Bellingham/Whatcom, now known nationally as a leading community for green, socially responsible business, has the honor of hosting one of the best conferences you will ever attend, guaranteed.

We are proud to host this gathering of independent business owners and innovators, local living economy entrepreneurs, community investors, government economic development professionals and sustainability leaders. It is an honor to know that folks across the country are excited to come here and to meet YOU, local leaders in this important movement toward sustainable communities.

Conference Overview

The new economy is being shaped at the grassroots level. Connect, share and learn from 700 pioneering business owners and investors, elected officials, philanthropists, economic development professionals and BALLE network leaders as we spotlight the most innovative and entrepreneurial approaches to growing healthy, resilient local economies.

Learn More and Register Online!

SC Member rates!  Be sure to register for a reduced rate if you are an SC member.  These rates are $435 for the full conference or $190 for a one-day pass.
(this discounted rate will end May 15th) 

* In order to get the SC member rate, be sure to indicate "SC Member" when asked during registration.  Discounts should be applied at the end of the registration process.   

We encourage you to attend! The conference is designed for everyone: general business owners, green builders, farmers, food producers, those focused on renewable energy, etc. If you're a member and you're interested in any aspect of sustainability, this conference is for you.  Click here to register.

What can you expect from the BALLE Conference?

Community Capitol Day : On June 14th, for the first year ever, we're hosting a pre-Conference, full day Accelerating Community Capital workshop in partnership with RSF Social Finance and Slow Money. We've never seen a workshop designed like this one.  We will hear from over 15 of the most promising pioneers innovating models for connecting regional investors and philanthropists with regional entrepreneurs.

Tours : On June 14 and 15th, there will also be tours of our area so visitors and/or YOU can see firsthand the amazing work happening with local food systems, green buildings, and manufacturers focused on the triple bottom line!

Opening Night Celebration: On the night of June 15th, the main conference will kick off with a party! We will gather on Western Washington University's campus and, while overlooking Bellingham Bay we will enjoy great music, a circus extravaganza, local beer and wine, and fabulous desserts.  Then we'll be ushered into WWU for opening night with a keynote presentation and a musical performance with Peter Buffett (son of Warren) and his band. It is going to be a fabulous night!

Conference Workshops : Two full days (June 16-17th) of over 80 speakers and session facilitators, including interactive sessions led by entrepreneurs growing the kinds of businesses we need for a healthy economic future!  These include the very best working models there are for connecting eaters with farmers, investors with entrepreneurs, manufacturers with regional resources, and businesses with the communities and eco-systems they serve.  A list of some of our impressive speakers is here:  Conference Speakers 

And More : The conference also includes three delicious meals a day and big off-site parties on Thursday at the Depot Market Square and on Friday at the Village Green!

Visit BALLE's conference website at: http://www.livingeconomies.org/conference-2011 and click on the link for our registration site. 

Interested in volunteering? click here for more information.