Economic Development and Developers in the News # 192
Econ dev news from 91 economic development executives and organizations in 31 states.
Welcome to the 192nd weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News.
Today's issue contains news from 91 economic development executives and organizations in 31 states.
If this is your first time reading: Hello!
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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🚨 "How far is this building from the airport?"
That's a real RFI question an economic developer I recently spoke with in North Carolina gets all the time.
His answer?
"I know -- but I always I have to go look it up."
He knows his sites better than anyone. But when RFIs demand specific, ever-changing data - broadband availability, utility diameters, drive times, college program stats - it turns into hours of research.
So I showed him what Sitehunt can do.
⚡ In one quick demo:
- It mapped sewer lines and power infrastructure from GIS - down to pipe material
- Pulled FCC broadband data and labor force reports
- Calculated airport drive time instantly
- Filled out a 60-question RFI in minutes
His response?
"Can I try it with one of my own sites?"
That's the moment I aim for in every demo: when the lightbulb goes off and they realize this isn't just software--it's hours of their life back.
If you've ever scrambled to fill out an RFI at the last minute, let's talk.
I'll show you what your next one could look like--with 90% of the work already done.
Alabama
The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce (President and Chief Executive Officer Anna Buckalew) has highlighted the Capital Region's leadership in economic growth for 2024, with $1.1 billion in capital investment and 497 new jobs generated.
Arkansas
The Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce is advancing a new economic development strategic plan aimed at driving growth and investment, reflecting the organization's commitment to long-term vitality and positioning Bentonville as a competitive business hub.
The Northwest Arkansas Council (Chief Executive Officer Nelson Peacock) celebrates the recent legislative session for advancing industrial development authorities, health care residency slots, and accessory dwelling unit housing reforms, all supporting regional economic diversification, workforce retention, and affordable housing through new tools and public-private partnerships.
California
Valley Vision (Chief Executive Officer Evan Schmidt) presented the We Prosper Together initiative--a community-driven economic development plan spanning eight Northern California counties and 140+ organizations--aiming to foster high-quality jobs, equitable growth, and climate resilience, with $450 million in state funding through the California Jobs First initiative.
The Southeast Fresno Community Economic Development Association is honoring influential leaders at its 11th annual awards luncheon, recognizing those who have made significant contributions to local economic opportunities. (Chief Executive Officer Jose Leon-Barraza)
StartUp Humboldt, an innovation hub launching this spring, unites Cal Poly Humboldt, College of the Redwoods, Small Business Development Centers, Lost Coast Ventures, and the Institute for Entrepreneurship Education to drive economic growth, job creation, and workforce development. (Associate Vice President for Research Kacie Flynn, Cal Poly Humboldt)
The California State Senate has established the Select Committee on Economic Development and Technological Innovation, chaired by Senator Josh Becker, to strengthen state leadership in innovation, advanced manufacturing, and public sector modernization by examining workforce, business retention, regulatory barriers, and technology-driven public service improvements.
Colorado
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has established the Denver Permitting Office, a citywide initiative to streamline approvals by coordinating nearly 300 staff across seven departments and targeting permit review completion within 180 days to accelerate housing, business development, and economic activity.
The Colorado Economic Development Commission has approved nearly $20 million in incentives to attract five companies in sectors including battery cell manufacturing, aerospace, bio oil, and electric motors, aiming to create over 1,200 jobs statewide. Daniel Salvetti (semiconductor industry manager, Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade), highlighted the competitive significance of these projects.
