At the 2026 LA Times Festival of Books, held April 18–19 at the University of Southern California campus, author Shaun Sterling unveiled a visionary framework for economic growth during a featured book signing and author interview at the MainSpring Books exhibit. Sterling's book, Nexus Companies and a Reimagined US Economy, introduces a concept that could reshape how businesses, workers, and governments interact in the face of technological change and infrastructure challenges.
The festival, recognized as one of the nation's premier literary gatherings, attracted readers, thought leaders, educators, policymakers, and innovators. Sterling's presentation stood out for its focus on practical solutions to pressing economic issues. The book proposes 'Nexus Companies'—organizations designed to function as economic connection points linking workers, businesses, governments, and emerging technologies. Sterling argues that strengthening these connections can improve efficiency, expand opportunity, support workforce development, and foster sustainable economic growth.
Drawing on his experience across industries including agriculture, real estate, and business consulting, Sterling explores how innovative business models can address infrastructure investment challenges, workforce skill development, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence. Rather than relying solely on traditional approaches, the text examines how public-private collaboration and evolving organizational structures may create new pathways for economic progress.
During his interview, Sterling discussed the importance of improving connections between economic stakeholders and highlighted opportunities to strengthen infrastructure without significantly increasing government debt. He also examined the role emerging technologies could play in shaping the next generation of economic systems while creating new opportunities for workers, businesses, and consumers alike. Festival attendees gained insight into how the proposed Nexus ecosystem seeks to increase economic dynamism while enhancing worker mobility, improving access to training and education, and encouraging innovation across multiple sectors.
The book is available on Amazon. An author interview is also available for those seeking deeper insights. MainSpring Books, the publishing and marketing company behind the event, connects authors with new audiences and meaningful platforms to expand the reach and impact of compelling literary works.
