Tripepi Smith (TS) will attend the California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) 2026 Annual Conference as a Supporter-level sponsor. Held from April 15–17 in Palm Springs, the conference centers on the theme “In Motion,” highlighting how economic developers evolve and adapt to the changing needs of their businesses and communities.
Director Melanie James and Senior Business Analyst Barbara Beran will represent Tripepi Smith at the event, engaging with local government and economic development professionals from across the state to discuss emerging trends in community engagement and strategic communication that support economic growth.
Tripepi Smith’s partnership with the California Association for Local Economic Development reflects the firm’s broader mission to be an institution of local government. Since 2022, Tripepi Smith has supported CALED to strengthen their communication and outreach efforts, including social media management, content development, media relations, graphic design, videography and strategy to highlight member successes, share important resources and elevate conversations around economic development across California.
Through this successful partnership and active participation in industry events, Tripepi Smith stays at the forefront of the challenges facing city managers and economic development directors. This insight allows the firm to deliver tailored communication solutions — from website development to strategic outreach — that help public agencies build resilient, prosperous communities.
“Economic development professionals do the heavy lifting of building sustainable futures for California, navigating an ever-changing landscape to meet the needs of our communities,” said Melanie. “We are proud to support the leaders who drive local economies forward, and I’m looking forward to connecting in Palm Springs to exchange insights on the innovation and engagement strategies that drive real local impact.”
Tripepi Smith looks forward to continuing its partnership with CALED and its members to elevate the standard of public sector communications and economic vitality statewide.
About CALED
The California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) is California’s premier economic development association. With more than 1,000 members, it is one of the largest economic development associations in the country, which is why we refer to our membership as California’s Economic Development Network. Since 1980, when it was created, CALED has led the way in teaching economic developers, local elected officials, and state representatives the value of economic development and how it is used to grow businesses, generate revenue to support community development programs and retain and create quality jobs.
About Tripepi Smith
Tripepi Smith is a California-based marketing, technology and public affairs firm that serves for-profit, nonprofit and public agencies. Its unique mix of marketing and technology prowess provides a competitive advantage to agencies seeking to leverage the internet to achieve their communication goals. The firm provides full content creation services, including: ghost writing, collateral development, photography, video production, aerial imagery, search engine optimization, email marketing campaigns and website design and execution. Tripepi Smith’s diverse clients include: City of American Canyon, City of Calabasas, City of Culver City, City of Cupertino, City of Daly City, City of Grover Beach, City of Indian Wells, City of La Cañada Flintridge, City of Lake Forest, City of Livermore, City of Malibu, City of Napa, City of Palmdale, City of Paramount, City of Tracy, CalChoice Energy Authority, California Joint Powers Insurance Authority, Santa Clara County Fire Department, Costa Mesa Sanitary District, Rowland Water District, California City Management Foundation, Renne Public Law Group, West Coast Arborists, Scripps College, Blind Children’s Center and Climatec.