2025 Fall Economic Perspective
October 23 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sonoma County EDC Presents 2025 Fall Economic Perspective: Spotlight on Generational Entrepreneurship
The Sonoma County Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) will host its 2025 Fall Economic Perspective on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Sonoma State University Student Center, bringing together community leaders, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders for an interactive program exploring how entrepreneurship is shaping Sonoma County’s economy.
This Fall’s program will spotlight generational perspectives in business, featuring a dynamic panel of local entrepreneurs across industries. Attendees will gain insight into what
influenced their path to entrepreneurship, lessons learned along the way, and how workplace culture is evolving in an era defined by technology, remote work, and a diverse
workforce.
The event will also feature a keynote address from Jeff Bellisario, Executive Director of the Bay Area Council Economic Institute, who will share current business trends and provide an economic outlook for Sonoma County.
“The Fall Economic Perspective is a unique opportunity to hear directly from local leaders who are driving change and innovation in our economy,” said Ethan Brown, Executive
Director at the Sonoma County EDC. “We’re especially excited to highlight the multigenerational perspectives that show the strength, resilience, and creativity of Sonoma
County’s business community.”
Event Schedule – Thursday, October 23, 2025
Sonoma State University, Student Center Grand Ballroom at 1801 E Cotati Avenue, Cotati
• 9:00 AM – Doors Open | Networking | Continental Breakfast
• 9:30 AM – Opening Remarks
• 9:45 AM – Multi-Generational Panel
o Moderated by Nikko Kimzin, Founder and Lead Consultant of Kimzin
Creative, is an award-winning social impact producer and cultural strategist
dedicated to fostering inclusive communities through arts-driven initiatives.
o Panelists include:
• Kirk Lok, CEO of Lok Group of Companies, who has led innovative
development projects shaping Sonoma County’s commercial landscape
• Monica Lopez, General Manager at Bacchus Landing, who navigates the
challenges of modern hospitality while mentoring the next generation of local
leaders.
• Crista Luedtke, award-winning chef and owner of Boon Hotel + Spa and
Boon Eat + drink, bringing creativity and community engagement to Sonoma
County’s hospitality scene.
• Mariam Martinez, owner/founder of Fruteria Diosa, whose entrepreneurial
journey reflects the growing influence of immigrant-owned businesses in
Sonoma County.
• 10:35 AM – Keynote Speaker: Jeff Bellisario, Executive Director, Bay Area Council
Economic Institute
• 11:15 AM – Questions & Answers
• 11:30 AM – Event Concludes
Ticket Information
Tickets are $60 and include access to the event and a continental breakfast. Table
reservations are available with the purchase of 10 tickets. Ticket sales close on October 22,
2025. Click here for TICKETS and more information.
Scholarship Tickets
A limited number of scholarship tickets are available for individuals for whom ticket prices
may be cost prohibitive, including students, nonprofit professionals, new entrepreneurs, or
low-income community members.
