Where Bold Ideas Meet Bold Leadership

Each October South Sound leaders head to a new location to learn about leading innovations, bold programs, and fresh partnerships that are driving a particular city forward. In 2025, this group heads to Detroit -- a city defined by transformation, resilience, and reinvention. The Aspire Intercity Leadership Conference brings together business, civic, nonprofit, and education leaders to explore what’s working in forward-thinking cities and how we can adapt those ideas to the South Sound. From mobility to manufacturing, Detroit offers daring lessons for the future.

REGISTER TO ATTEND

"Detroit is a metaphor for America, for America's challenges and America's opportunities. It is a hothouse for new innovation, for ingenuity and risk taking. That doesn't happen in a lot of American cities. We need to be in Detroit because of that.​"

-Darren Walker, President, Ford Foundation

Learn from a City Reimagined

​Dive into Detroit’s transformation through public-private partnerships, creative placemaking, and economic revitalization.

SIGN ME UP

​Connect with Regional Leaders

​Build relationships with Detroit decision-makers across sectors.

GET CONNECTED

Bring It Home

​Discover programs and strategies that can inspire solutions in Pierce County.

BE INSPIRED

---

Key Information​

When We Go

October 6-8, 2025. Three immersive days of discovery, dialogue, and connection.

Where We're Headed

Detroit, Michigan. A city reborn through innovation, grit, and community vision. 

Who Should Come

South Sound changemakers and future creators, including business leaders, elected officials, nonprofit directors, educators, and emerging voices ready to shape what’s next.

What We'll Explore

Detroit’s rebirth from smart mobility and talent pipelines to neighborhood investment, equitable development, and arts-driven placemaking.

Why It Matters

Every city has a story. Detroit’s is one of transformation. We'll gather insights and bold ideas to bring from the Motor City to the City of Destiny.

REGISTER NOW

Cultural Dialogue. Entrepreneurship. Economic Development.

Explore how Detroit is designing its future. From revitalized neighborhoods and walkable downtown areas to economic diversification and wide-reaching growth. 

AGENDA COMING SOON

Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors

GOLD SPONSOR & OFFICIAL AIRLINE

SILVER SPONSOR

EXPLORE SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES