Memphis is slated to become the center of attention in the Americas for innovation and competitiveness come May 2026. The city has proudly scored the role of host for the twenty‑third Americas Competitiveness Exchange (ACE), set to welcome a unique crowd of government officials, industry leaders, and innovation experts from May 10–15, as revealed in an announcement on the City of Memphis' official website.
This significant event is not just a calendar entry; it promises a deep dive into the local economy's driving forces for senior attendees from the Americas. Key areas of focus will include global logistics, advanced manufacturing and, electrification, health and life sciences, plus the region's burgeoning aginnovation and entrepreneurial spirit. The program is designed to showcase Memphis as a hotbed of both cultural richness and innovative prowess.
According to the City of Memphis' official website, Memphis Mayor Paul Young stated, “Memphis is honored to host the twenty-third Americas Competitiveness Exchange. Our region is where culture and innovation intersect, where logistics, manufacturing, research, and technology are shaping the future, and where collaboration fuels genuine opportunities.” Mayor Young believes the event will bring a unique spotlight to the city that is both culturally rich and economically vibrant.
Andre Fowlkes, co-founder and president of Start Co., emphasized the value of hosting ACE, asserting that after attending the Americas Competitiveness Exchange in Chicago, they knew they had to bring this delegation to Memphis because of the diverse connections and partnerships that are created. He noted that the event signals to more than 30 countries that Memphis is an innovation-driven economy and a landing pad for growing firms and capital, aiding efforts to build a global exchange of emerging technologies and talent. Fowlkes’ perspective highlights the event's potential for fostering global relationships and strengthening the city's economic fabric.
The collaboration effort to bring ACE to Memphis includes the City of Memphis, the Greater Memphis Chamber, EDGE, Start Co., and a robust group of regional business, research, and civic institutions that are combining their resources to ensure the event's success. A short promotional video has already been released, inviting onlookers to get a glimpse into what awaits the program's participants in 2026.
