Just as the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair focused on innovation and the future, the Next 50 devotes the month of September to Commerce and the Innovation Economy. Trade summits, high level discussions, career development activities, startup weekends and lively forums will consider the place of alternative energies, transportation, IT, global development, women and much more in future regional prosperity.

Titans of Innovation Speaker Series – September 25

Featuring leadership teams from our region’s most innovative companies, including Costco, Nordstrom and Phillips. Each evening presents one of the three in an informative and inspirational discussion of what motivates their companies to succeed. The next Titans of Innovations event will be held from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Tuesday September 25 with Blake Nordstorm leading the discussion. For information on Titans of Innovation and to register for this free series, visit www.titansofinnovation.com.

Women in Innovation Summit 2012 – September 22

Learn about the life-enhancing contributions of women in the innovation economy, focusing on their roles in leadership, science and technology and social change. The summit is designed to inspire and create action in the areas of environment, economy and organizational development. The event will be held from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Saturday, September 22 at Intiman Playhouse. Pre-registration required. www.wins2012.com.

Global Fest – Stand for Girls – September 22

Join a global meet-up addressing women’s issues in global development. The event focuses on innovation, in keeping with the month’s theme, at the heart of solutions to global problems. Global Fest invites the community to learn how we can partner to solve global problems and more. This free event will be held from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday September 22 at Seattle Center Armory in partnership with Global Washington. For more information, visit www.globalwaday.org.

Ballard Cultural Exchange Tour – September 22

First stop is the Nordic Heritage Museum, with its Dream of America exhibit and some scrumptious Scandinavian foods. Tour takers will learn about the economic and cultural importance of Scandinavian immigration here. Participants will also visit Marvin’s Garden in the heart of the historic Ballard Avenue Landmark District. Group members may also enjoy some free time to explore the unique shops and restaurants in contemporary Ballard before returning to the Seattle Center by tour bus. Duration: 4 hours Cost: $21. (including museum admissions). The tour is on Saturday, September 22.

MLK Business Association Walking Tour – September 29

MLK is located in the most diverse zip code population in the nation, where 90 languages are spoken. The high concentration of small, locally owned and operated businesses and service providers that thrive along MLK reflects the community’s rich cultural diversity and history. The tour, which takes place on September 29, includes stops at a Vietnamese Restaurant, jewelry store, Deo Valente and other ethnic shops. Cost: FREE. (includes food samples from some restaurants).

For more information on Next 50 and Commerce and Innovation Month, visit www.seattlecenter.com or call 206 684-7200.