(SCC) — With just one week remaining, the Saipan Chamber of Commerce is preparing to convene business and community leaders for its highly anticipated 4th Annual Economic Forum on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Kensington Hall, Kensington Hotel Saipan, a proud Chamber member.
Doors will open at 7:30 a.m., with the Forum beginning promptly at 8:15 a.m. The program will run through 5: p.m., followed by a Networking Mixer from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., providing attendees with valuable opportunities to connect across sectors and continue meaningful discussions.
As one of the Chamber’s signature events, the Annual Economic Forum brings together business leaders, policymakers, industry professionals, nonprofit organizations, educators, and community stakeholders to address the key issues shaping the economic future of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. With attendance building and limited seating available, early registration is strongly encouraged.
This year’s Forum will feature expert-led discussions across five key areas:
Tourism moderated by Bart Jackson
Presenter: Jamika Taijeron, Managing Director of Marianas Visitors Authority
Panel participants: Kimberlyn King-Hinds, CNMI delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives; Jay Merrill, president of Market Research and Development; and Ivan Quichocho, chairman of the Hotel Association of the NMI.
Economic Diversification moderated by Jay Merrill
Presenters: Jay Merrill, president of Market Research and Development; Jerry Tan, president of Northern Marianas Sports Association; and Esther Muna, CEO of Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation.
Panel participants: Derek Sasamoto, executive director of Commonwealth Economic Development Authority; Vin Armani, Economic Diversification Committee Chairman; and Edwin Propst, program manager of Broadband Policy and Development
Workforce Development and Policy moderated by Jim Arenovski
Presenter: Leila Staffler, secretary of the CNMI Department of Labor
Panel Participants: Galvin Deleon Guerrero, president of Northern Marianas College; Jodina Attao, CEO of Northern Marianas Technical Institute; Lawrence Camacho, commissioner of education for the Public School System; and Kimberlyn King-Hinds, CNMI delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives
Infrastructure moderated by Joe Guerrero
Presenter: Commonwealth Utilities Corporation, Department of Public Works
Panel Participant: Edwin Propst, BPD program manager
Military in the Marianas moderated by Brad Ruszala
Presenter: Edwin Aldan, mayor of Tinian & Aguigan
Panel participants: Edward C Camacho, special assistant, Commonwealth Bureau of Military Affairs, Joint Region Marianas Representative; and Clyde Norita, senior policy advisor of the Office of the Governor
Through these discussions, attendees will explore practical solutions, investment opportunities, and strategies to enhance economic resilience and long-term growth across the Marianas.
Chamber President Dr. Josh Wise emphasized the importance of the event, noting that collaboration and informed dialogue help shape thoughtful solutions and forward-looking strategies that will benefit the CNMI for years to come.
Registration is open to business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, students, and community members who wish to participate in shaping a stronger economic future. Registration fees are $50 for Chamber members and $55 for future members.
To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/SCC4EconForum
For additional information, contact the Saipan Chamber of Commerce at (670) 234-7150 or email [email protected].
The 4th Annual Economic Forum reflects the Chamber’s continued commitment to fostering collaboration, promoting business success, and advancing policies that support a vibrant, competitive, and resilient local economy.
About the SCC
The Saipan Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization who serves its members as a resource enhancing the quality of business and life on Saipan. Its vision is to create an island where businesses, families, and communities succeed as one.
For more information or to learn how to become a Chamber member, go to www.saipanchamber.com, call (670) 234-7150, or visit the 2nd Floor of the Marianas Business Plaza (Suite 201-A).
