The Gateway Forum
About this Event
Registration available on Friday, August 28th!
Join industry experts, leaders, and professionals for a full-day event focused on international trade, logistics, and business in the Rio Grande Valley. The Gateway Forum offers insightful panels featuring key voices shaping the future of commerce in this dynamic region.
The event will feature a keynote address by Duncan Woods, providing valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within cross-border trade and economic development.
This in-person gathering is designed to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration among stakeholders invested in the growth and innovation of the Rio Grande Valley’s trade and logistics sectors.
Agenda
🕑: 10:15 AM
Pharr International Bridge Panel
Info: Explore what’s next for cross-border trade as industry and infrastructure leaders discuss the Pharr International Bridge expansion, its transformative impact on trade capacity, and how new infrastructure is strengthening Pharr’s position and global gateway.
🕑: 10:45 AM
Sub-Panel: Pharr Int'l Bridge - Rail & Sea Ports
Info: The Pharr International Bridge doesn’t operate in isolation – it connects to a larger global transportation network.
A conversation exploring how bridges, rail networks, and seaports work together to move goods, strengthen supply chains and drive the global economy.
🕑: 11:30 AM
Transportation Panel - Driving Trade Forward
Info: A conversation exploring the critical role highways play in moving goods beyond bridges, rail networks, and seaports to their final destinations.
Discover how reliable transportation infrastructure keeps products moving, connects communities and businesses, strengthens supply chains, and drives continued trade and economic growth.
🕑: 12:15 PM
Keynote - Dr. Duncan Woods
Info: From Chokepoints to Gateways: Why South Texas is the model for the new American economy
🕑: 01:00 PM
International Panel-Global Partnerships, Investments & International Relations
Info: A conversation on the power of international partnerships, investment, and global relations in shaping the future of trade. As an international gateway connecting Texas and the United States with Mexico and the world, Pharr is uniquely positioned to strengthen cross-border relationships, attract investment and create new opportunities for economic growth.
🕑: 01:30 PM
Pharr EDC & Chamber of Commerce - The Business Landscape: Opportunity in Pharr
Info: Why Pharr? What are the oppotunities here? A forward-looking conversation on Pharr’s evolving business landscape, economic development opportunities, and the resources available to businesses and investors. Discover why Pharr is positioned for growth and how businesses can connect with the opportunities shaping the region’s next era of investment, development, and commerce.
Moderator Ron Garza Senior Associate Vice President - Workforce and Economic Development Division of Governmental and Community Relations.
Trolley Tours - Industrial Parks & Land Availability Led by Pharr EDC
Info: Following the Forum, attendees will have the opportunity to tour Pharr’s industrial parks and key development areas aboard the City Trolley. Explore available land, strategic locations, and the infrastructure supporting Pharr’s growing business and investment landscape. Must be registered to tour.
🕑: 06:00 PM
Afternoon Mixer
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
