Economic Development and Developers in the News # 232
Econ dev news from 40 economic development executives and organizations in 21 states.
Welcome to the 232nd weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News!
This week: updates from 40 executives and organizations across 22 states.
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The Econ Dev Show is a podcast and email newsletter delivering actionable strategies, fresh news, insights, and ideas from the economic development community and your host, Dane Carlson.
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Arizona
The Navajo Nation approved a 25-year tourism lease for Arrowhead Canyon Tours to create jobs.
Growth Partners Arizona grew lending statewide, and director Andre T. Whittington won an ED Unsung Hero award.
California
Lake County Economic Development Corporation met with Latinos United to discuss support for Latino-owned businesses.
Florida
Gainesville named Ralph Hilliard as its development services advocate to help projects with permits and zoning.
St. Lucie County is trying to land Project Orchid, a manufacturer promising 1,000+ jobs and $310M in investment.
Indiana
Greencastle approved a $60,000 economic development contract with Kristin Clary to improve accountability.
Allen County may invest $100,000 to help Do it Best add 180 jobs by 2028 if it meets performance goals.
Kansas
Emporia groups formed the Flint Hills Economic Alliance to coordinate economic development and hire a CEO.
Louisiana
Ascension Parish's $5.8B Hyundai Steel plant could bring 1,400 jobs, says Kate MacArthur in a Hyundai Steel plant update.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts economic development chief Eric Paley made a Franklin County visit to talk jobs, housing, transit, and the $4B Mass Leads Act.
Michigan
SE Michigan Council of Governments is taking public input on its economic development strategy.
Michigan lawmakers are reviewing the Michigan Economic Development Corporation over transparency and job results.
Minnesota
Greater Jobs Inc. and the Albert Lea Economic Development Agency backed 60+ projects with $1M+ in loans, from retail to housing.
Nebraska
Norfolk earned state recognition for workforce training with local schools and employers.
Nevada
Carson City hired a new economic development director to support business growth and affordable housing.
New Mexico
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and Trans Pesos Bank expanded loans for Navajo entrepreneurs through a federal small business credit program.
North Carolina
Jennifer Bosser, CEO of Iredell County EDC, was appointed vice chair of IEDC's professional development committee.
Morganton will host the ACE 2026 conference, bringing national economic development leaders to town for a major industry event.
Ohio
SICCET USA plans a $2M Ohio factory with a $75,000 JobsOhio grant, creating 15 jobs.
Medina County leaders shared updates on major local projects and investments at a recent economic development meeting.
Pennsylvania
Radnor Township hired Sam Woods Thomas as its new economic development manager and will hold a meet-and-greet.
Pittsburgh formed a new economic development team to attract businesses and residents downtown.
Pennsylvania released its first Housing Action Plan, including a $1B fund to boost affordable homes and speed up building.
Rodney S. Ridley Sr. leads Alvernia's O'Pake Institute, helping 300+ businesses with grants and training.
South Carolina
John Truluck of Dorchester County Economic Development was named Local Developer of the Year after helping create 4,600 jobs and $1.3B investment.
South Dakota
A committee advanced South Dakota's TIF bill, which would tighten tax-increment financing rules.
Texas
Fate hired Emily Goodrum as its new economic development director with downtown and retail experience.
Waco named Kent George its new chief economic development officer after he helped create 5,000 jobs and $2.3B in investment.
Virginia
Victor Hoskins, CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, is stepping down after nearly seven years and boosting Fairfax's economy by $47B.
Washington
Spokane's Parking 2 People program helps turn parking lots into affordable housing with tax savings.
Wisconsin
Christian Tscheschlok helped land $400M+ in investment and 1,500+ jobs.
Kenosha Area Business Alliance leader Nicole Ryf was recognized for supporting Eli Lilly's $3B investment and 750 jobs.
Thrive Economic Development leader Deb Reinbold helped bring nearly $2B in investment and launch a housing fund.
The Great Lakes Economic Development Council will hold its 2026 conference in Milwaukee.
