Economic Development and Developers in the News # 184

Welcome to the 184th weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News.

Today's issue contains news from 45 economic development executives and organizations in 17 states and Canada.

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

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Arizona

Heath Vescovi-Chiordi, director of Pima County’s Economic Development Office, received the 2024 Future Leader award from the International Economic Development Council for his significant role in attracting a major company to the region, enhancing small business success, and strengthening established businesses.

Arkansas

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission has launched the 75Strong program to bolster economic growth across all 75 Arkansas counties. Partnering with Startup Junkie and Conductor, this initiative aims to empower rural areas by providing resources and entrepreneurial training. Economic Development Director Clint O'Neal emphasized the program's potential to transform aspiring entrepreneurs into future major employers by delivering specialized certification and facilitating collaboration.

California

Escondido's plan to temporarily relocate its public library hit a snag when the chosen site, a former Forever 21 store at the North County Mall, was discovered to house over 70 small businesses as part of the Cultured Vibe Expo. Economic Development Director Jennifer Schoeneck emphasized collaboration over displacement, opting instead for smaller vacant suites for the library's temporary home. This adjustment could lead to future partnerships between the library and the expo's vendors, reflecting a community-focused approach to local economic development.

The Santa Maria Valley Chamber has promoted Suzanne Singh to Vice President of Economic Development & Government Affairs.

Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation has received a $100,000 grant from PNC Bank to support its programs aimed at fostering economic growth for small businesses and entrepreneurs in South Los Angeles. The grant will fund initiatives such as the Digital Accelerator program and the CEO Series, which aim to bridge the digital divide and empower business owners with essential skills. (President Quentin Strode)

Tess Radmill Sangster is the new Economic Development & Public Affairs Director at City of San Marcos.

Colorado

The Economic Development Council of Colorado, in collaboration with state and regional partners, will host a Regional Economic Development Forum in Craig on March 5. Sponsored by the Colorado Department of State, the event aims to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaborative problem-solving in economic development, featuring insights from state and federal experts. (EDCC Executive Director Kim Woodworth)

Paula Mehle is the new Economic Development Director at the Town of Lochbuie.

Delaware

The Delaware Prosperity Partnership, led by CEO Kurt Foreman, remains pivotal in shaping economic development in Delaware amidst evolving strategies under Governor Matt Meyer's administration.

Florida

Alachua County has launched the Forward Focus initiative, a three-year plan to enhance economic opportunities and essential services in eastern areas like Hawthorne, Waldo, and Micanopy. (Economic Development Manager Sean McLendon)

Illinois

Jamie Beasley of Pike County Chamber & EDC in Pittsfield is the first Economic Development Executive Director in the U.S. to become a Crowdfund Better® Certified Advisor.

Maryland

Baltimore Development Corp. CEO and President Colin Tarbert announced his resignation effective June to transition into real estate development.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts has unveiled an ambitious climatetech economic development plan with the goal of becoming a global leader in climate innovation. Spearheaded by MassCEC CEO Emily Reichert, the plan emphasizes leveraging Massachusetts' premier status in climatetech startups to boost economic growth, create jobs, and attract investments.