Rancho Cordova Mayor Siri Pulipati opened the event by emphasizing the city’s expanding role as a business hub. Photo by Tia Gemmell photography

 

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce held its annual Business & Economic Outlook event on Jan. 31 at the Sacramento Marriott Rancho Cordova, bringing together local business leaders and economic experts to discuss the region’s prospects in 2025 and beyond.

Mayor Siri Pulipati opened the event by emphasizing the city’s expanding role as a business hub.

“We are a hub of business opportunities and success,” Pulipati said. “This morning, you will hear from a number of experts.”

The program, which included a series of guest speakers and presentations, offered a look at the local market, national trends and projects for the future.

According to the Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce, “This is a must-attend event for business and community leaders seeking well-researched information and valuable insights into the economic development of our area. It provides an analysis of regional markets, dynamic national trends, and local indicators.”

Dr. Sanjay Varshney, PhD, CFA, chief economist at Goldenstone Wealth Management and publisher of the Sacramento Business Review, was one of the featured speakers who offered a 2025 economic forecast, highlighting an optimistic outlook for the year ahead, despite some challenges.

Dr. Sanjay Varshney, Ph.D. was one of the featured speakers, offering an economic forecast for 2025. Photo by Tia Gemmell photography

“We expect a strong year of economic growth and that will trickle down to Rancho Cordova,” said Varshney. “The housing market is cooling off but new home sales are up and the region’s financial index remains strong. Business sentiment is solid, with 50% of local businesses reporting a positive outlook.”

Varshney also pointed to emerging trends in commercial real estate, with changes in demand for industrial offices and retail spaces.

“Private markets are exploding and there is a lot more hiring happening,” said Varshney, adding that continued diversification of the business mix is crucial for long-term growth.

Amanda Norton, economic development director for the City of Rancho Cordova, along with Edgar Medina, Principal Engineer, shared insights into ongoing infrastructure and development projects aimed at supporting the city’s rapid growth.

“We are a growth city, and we’re actively working to meet the needs of our expanding population and employment base,” Norton said. “Our general plan focuses on smart, sustainable land use and strategic investments in infrastructure.”

Amanda Norton, economic development director for the City of Rancho Cordova, along with Edgar Medina, principal engineer, shared insights into ongoing infrastructure and development projects. Photo by Tia Gemmell photography

The highlighted programs and projects include the Talent Pipeline Management Program, aimed at creating clear career pathways for students and job seekers; the Active Transportation Plan, which focuses on improving mobility for people and goods to make Rancho Cordova a more accessible destination; the Jobs and Talent Program; the Corridor Investment Plan; the Zinfandel Pedestrian Overcrossing; Mather Village; and the Fiber City Plan.

Diann H. Rogers, president and CEO of the Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce, also discussed a three-year plan recently presented and approved by the City Council.

“We believe it will have a significant impact,” Rogers said.

The plan focuses on fostering new business growth, enhancing retention efforts, leveraging emerging technologies, and promoting sustainable growth.

Another anticipated discussion featured Sadie St. Lawrence, founder and CEO of the Human Machine Collaboration Institute, who interviewed Louis Stewart, Head of Strategic Initiatives at NVIDIA’s global Developer Ecosystem. The conversation centered on the rapid technological advancements driving change in the workforce.

“It’s inspiring for the region to embrace AI transformation,” Stewart said. “Every industry needs to leverage this technology to stay competitive, be more efficient and create sustainable growth. The key is to identify what’s next and customize AI solutions for your specific needs.”

From left are, Marc Sapoznik, President and CEO of Visit Rancho Cordova, Mike Luca Senior managing director at JLL, Kimberly Jurgens on behalf of Chad Suggs VP of IT at Heritage Community Credit Union, Anil Kondakrindi og Principal ARK Strategies Inc and Joey Penneman of SMUD Commercial & Industrial Educato. Photo by Tia Gemmell photography

In terms of recommendations for Rancho Cordova, Stweart emphasized the importance of celebrating wins.

“Celebrate the wins no matter how small. The more people see what you are doing, the more they look at you,” said Stweart.

As 2025 unfolds, Rancho Cordova’s business leaders and stakeholders remain focused on fostering partnerships and ensuring that the city’s infrastructure keeps pace with its rapid growth.