Economic Development and Developers in the News #119

Welcome to the 119th weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News.

Today's issue contains news from 57 economic development executives and organizations in 19 states and Canada.

If this is your first time reading: Welcome!

The Econ Dev Show is a podcast and weekday email newsletter of actionable strategies, fresh news, insights, and ideas from the economic development community and your host, Dane Carlson. On Wednesdays, we share news from the economic development community.

Alabama

The Economic Development Association of Alabama (EDAA) awarded Senator Garlan Gudger and Representative Danny Garrett as Legislators of the Year for aiding the passage of The Game Plan economic legislation in 2023.

Alabama Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield emphasized the state's focused and steady approach towards economic development amid fierce competition in the Southeast region. Speaking at the Economic Development Association of Alabama 2023 Summer Conference, he highlighted the importance of collaboration and introducing incentives, which were key ingredients in Alabama's record-setting economic year in 2022 with $10.1 billion capital investment. Canfield also applauded the efforts made with The Game Plan package to encourage new projects and addressed the need for workforce development to overcome the ongoing challenges of attracting companies to the state. Economic Development Partnership of Alabama President Greg Barker endorsed the commitment to workforce development and young talent retention in the state, while Innovate Alabama CEO Cynthia Crutchfield affirmed the state's focus on tech sector growth and entrepreneurship.

Arizona

Ashley Busada, previously the Senior Director of Economic Development at the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, has been promoted to Vice President Economic Development.