FAQs

How has High Desert Opportunity contributed to economic development in the High Desert?

High Desert Opportunity is one part of a community-wide effort to foster economic development in the High Desert. Our role is to showcase, through various activities offered over one day, the advantages of doing business in the area. Some of the newest companies to the High Desert include Super Target, Newell Rubbermaid, M&M/Mars, Walmart Distribution, 84 Lumber and Ultra Star Cinemas.

How much does it cost to attend and/or have a booth?

A ticket admits you to the exhibit hall (expo), opportunity theater, the morning and afternoon receptions and the luncheon program featuring the keynote speaker. The cost for an individual is $75, however we offer an early bird price of $65 until July 1st. Tables of ten are the best bargain at $675. An indoor or outdoor display booth is available for $450; an indoor and outdoor display booth are available for $650.

What is High Desert Opportunity?

High Desert Opportunity is a one-day annual business conference presented to showcase the opportunities and advantages the High Desert offers to new and expanding businesses. The event's organizers share a common goal with economic development organizations in the High Desert by supporting economic growth and stability through attracting businesses and jobs to the area.

What's included?

The full day of activities includes admittance into the expo hall, luncheon with keynote speaker, virtual bus tour and opportunity theater. Opportunity theater is an informative program focusing on regional development in the High Desert communities of Adelanto, Apple Valley, Barstow, Hesperia, Victorville and the County of San Bernardino. Through informational displays and exhibit booths, the event offers developers, brokers, businesses, investors, and financial institutions the advantages of doing business in the High Desert. The event provides valuable networking opportunities with governmental agencies, utilities, financial institutions, community organizations, real estate brokers, title companies, communication/information services, health care providers and the legal community to work together to attract and promote business development in the region. Conference attendees are also offered morning and afternoon receptions in the expo hall with coffee, juices, fruit, and sweet rolls and a variety of desserts to enjoy.

When, Where, and How?

WHEN: Thursday, October 21, 2010, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. WHERE: The event is held at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds in Victorville. HOW: To purchase tickets or exhibit booth space for High Desert Opportunity 2009, please visit our online store or call us at (760) 245-7600.

Who attends?

In 2009, the conference drew more than 800 participants representing the fields of real estate, insurance, manufacturing, engineering, architecture, and economic development. Some are investors who own property in the High Desert or who are considering purchasing property. Many of the attendees were from out of the area, including from Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Inland Empire communities.

Who organizes the conference and how did it start?

High Desert Opportunity was founded in 1982 and incorporated as a nonprofit corporation in 1985. The committee is composed of a group of approximately 30 local business professionals and community leaders who volunteer their time to organize and present this premier annual business conference. The High Desert Opportunity team's goal is to bring an interesting and informative conference to the business community. Many area organizations support High Desert Opportunity, including through sponsorships. Susan Drake is President of this year's event, scheduled for Thursday, October 21, 2010. Drake has been involved with High Desert Opportunity for many years and brings a broad background of management experience to the event.