March 2011
www.okcchamber.com
Bioscience Industry Has Tremendous Impact A report of the economic impact of Greater Oklahoma City’s bioscience industry by Battelle Technology Partnerships Practice shows that the industry has grown by leaps and bounds over the past five years. “The economic impact this industry provides to our local economy is staggering,” Greater Oklahoma City Chamber Chairman Carl Edwards said. “The truth is we are in the infancy stages of developing this sector of our economic engine and we are already generating great return on our investments.” The study found that today the industry employs more than 26,000 workers who earn a combined $1.5 billion in wages. Overall, the industry is contributing $6.7 billion to the economy. continued on page 5
The Greater Oklahoma City bioscience industry contributes $6.7 billion to the economy annually.
ACCE CHOOSES OKlahoma city FOR 2013
The 2013 Annual Convention will bring 1,000 attendees to Oklahoma City, with an estimated 2,350 hotel room nights to be sold. The estimated economic impact of this convention is more than $622,000. Beyond the positive economic effects of conventions such as this, there are a number of other benefits that come from hosting opinion leaders from around the country.
The American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) has chosen Oklahoma City as the location for its 2013 Annual Convention. “We are thrilled that Oklahoma City has been chosen to host the 2013 Annual Convention,” said Roy H. Williams, president and CEO, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “I look forward to showing my fellow chamber of commerce colleagues the work we’ve done to improve Oklahoma City.”
“We’ve learned time and time again that if we can simply get individuals to Oklahoma City, we will undoubtedly impress them,” said Williams. “We will roll out the red carpet for the ACCE attendees, and when the conference is over, they will return to their homes and tell our story.” ACCE is a national association that serves individuals involved in the management of chambers. Its mission is to support and develop chamber professionals to lead businesses and their communities.