U.S. Congressman Nick Lampson, in his first summit with the Public Forum Institute, drew attention to greater Houston’s potential for economic growth. The 2008 Action Summit: Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Renewable Energy, convened in Pearland, Texas, highlighted broad strategies in Education, Entrepreneurship, Renewable Energy, and Smart Growth to best effect regional economic development in the Houston metropolitan area. Houston's urban economy is based extensively in energy, manufacturing, aeronautics, and technology. Broad, comprehensive policies that carefully consider all circumstances and possible consequences---that collectively define a vision—will enable the region’s industries to plan for a thriving economic future. As a result of the summit, coalitions have been formed to guide the policy-making process forward in line with community goals and values.

Top Summit Recommendations:

• Creating and promoting a region-wide strategy or roadmap to direct prospective entrepreneurs to key support groups and resources, this is a two way street.

• Support the Houston-Galveston Area Council's 2035 Regional Transportation Plan by enabling communities to plan and implement around smart growth principles.

• Promote innovation through research and development through partnering between the private sector, universities and governmental research agencies. Additionally encourage technology transfer and domestic manufacturing and engineering to ensure jobs and resources benefit local communities.

• Federal government should be facilitators, not creators - offering incentives for business participants in education of students. Get them involved through outreach, communication and involvement in apprentice and education venues. Focusing on critical skills, integrated, operation and organizational topics.

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