News

EconAlliance Annual Event Was Power-Packed!
Much Anticipated Event!
This year’s annual gala, the EconAlliance Annual Dinner/Future Forum hosted January 8th at The Craft House at Corque in Solvang, was a rousing start to 2025!
A highlight on the region’s social calendar, it promised an unforgettable evening, and it certainly delivered.

From the inspiring keynote speaker who shared what the future holds for Space Force, to the heartfelt awards ceremony celebrating outstanding contributions, and the thrilling live auction that ignited both friendly competition and generous philanthropy, the night was a vibrant tapestry of celebration, recognition, and community spirit. And that was just the beginning.
Awards and More
Keynote presentation was a Base update by Thomas Stevens, Executive Director, Space Launch 30, Vandenberg Space Force Base. Nearly 200 industry, community and economic stakeholder attendees were introduced to new EconAlliance CEO Jenelle Osborne (read a few words from Jenelle), who served as emcee for the event. (Jenelle’s bio PDF)

Dinner featured Board President Sam Cohen’s presentation of the 2024 EconAlliance Northern Santa Barbara County Impact Award, given to the Santa Barbara Foundation for its broad-based support of childcare, healthcare, digital literacy, housing, education and workforce development and dozens of other important efforts benefiting North County.

Guests were also afforded the opportunity to recognize outgoing EconAlliance Board member Steve Greig, EconAlliance founder Lawnae Hunter and co-founder Victoria Conner (Conner, photo right). The event ended with a live auction by well-known auctioneer and EconAlliance Board Member Todd Ventura. Items included an aviation experience, a “Friends” package of multiple couples’ night dinners and activities, a child’s playhouse, and lastly, a pig roast for 100 at the well-known Pork Palace in Buellton. See photo gallery below!

Thank You Supporters!
EconAlliance thanks Dinner/Future Forum event sponsors Your People Professionals, United Way NSBC, Innovative Produce, and Urban Planning Concepts. Special thanks go to auction donors: Pork Palace owner Randy Jones, Alejandra & Jerry Mahoney for pig roast side dishes and building of the child’s playhouse, and AKS Aviation. Appreciation also to Friends package donors: Leonardo’s in Solvang, Casmalia Hitchin’ Post, Solvang Theaterfest, Elks Rodeo, Happy Bistro and the SeaVenture in Pismo Beach and to all silent auction donors, as well.










