Episodes
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In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Brock Herr, Senior Vice President for Business Development at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. They discuss the evolution of economic development beyond simple land sales.
He details Indiana's comprehensive approach to business development, including sales enablement, lead generation, site selection, and ongoing business support. Herr emphasizes the importance of high-touch engagement and walking businesses through each step of their journey, highlighting how modern economic development requires a full-experience approach to ensure long-term success.
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Ten Actionable Insights for Economic Developers
Develop a high-touch, full-experience model for business engagement
Focus beyond just selling land - create comprehensive support systems
Build strong introduction networks for new businesses
Maintain detailed knowledge of available sites and inventory
Create strategic approaches for modern site selection needs
Implement business retention and expansion programs
Develop clear online resources while maintaining personal connections
Focus on long-term business success rather than just initial attraction
Create systems to support projects of all sizes, not just large ones
Establish clear communication channels for business support needs
Five Notable Quotes
"Economic development is not an easy game and glad that somebody like you's bringing a little bit of insight to folks that may not have a peek into what we do on a day to day."
"There's more to it than just selling them a piece of land."
"You bring a business into your community, and you want them to succeed."
"Like you'd rather not just be looked at as a sale or a metric."
"Walking them through step by step, introducing them to who they need to be introduced to, opening doors that are closed to them, all those kinds of things." -
This episode of the Econ Dev Show podcast features an insightful conversation with Kristen Fish-Peterson, the Principal and CEO at Redevelopment Resources. Kristen shares her vast expertise in economic and community development, detailing the work her firm does in housing studies, market analysis, and downtown redevelopment planning. Throughout the episode, Kristen emphasizes her team's unique ability to work with both private developers and public sector entities, helping them navigate the complexities of municipal processes and strategic planning.
As the discussion unfolds, Dane and Kristen explore how economic development and redevelopment projects can rejuvenate communities, particularly downtown areas. Kristen delves into how her team assists municipalities in implementing redevelopment plans and helping developers secure the necessary municipal support. This episode provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the world of redevelopment, offering valuable insights for economic developers and community planners alike.
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast, Dane Carlson interviews Josh Wright about Lightcast's new report "The Rising Storm: Building a Future-Ready Workforce to Withstand the Looming Labor Shortage." The report explores the impending demographic drought due to retiring baby boomers, declining birth rates, and other factors such as incarceration and addiction. Wright explains how these converging trends are creating an unprecedented challenge for the U.S. economy, with certain industries like healthcare, construction, and food service already feeling the impact. He discusses the potential long-term consequences of this labor shortage on economic growth, productivity, and community sustainability.
The conversation then shifts to strategies for economic developers and communities to prepare for this challenge. Wright emphasizes the importance of skills-based hiring and training, talent attraction and retention, and partnerships between businesses and educational institutions. He advocates for a data-driven approach, urging communities to analyze their local labor markets and adapt their workforce development strategies accordingly. The episode provides valuable insights for economic development professionals, policymakers, and business leaders on how to build a future-ready workforce in the face of these demographic shifts. Wright also highlights the resources available in the report and accompanying materials to help communities navigate this looming crisis.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Josh Wright. -
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviews Marta Tarantsey, Regional Development Officer for Business Oregon, about her work fostering economic growth in Southern Oregon. Since 2017, Marta has supported businesses and communities in the region, navigating the challenges and opportunities of a state rich in natural resources and talent but with a smaller population compared to national competitors.
Marta highlights key topics such as Oregon’s urban growth boundary and its influence on development. She shares the success story of Dutch Bros Coffee—an Oregon startup that scaled into a national brand and went public—as a prime example of the region’s potential. The conversation also explores pressing workforce issues, including childcare shortages, drawing on insights from a recent panel hosted by the Grants Pass and Josephine Chamber of Commerce.
Throughout the episode, Marta’s passion for community engagement is evident as she reflects on her involvement with local organizations. Her journey from Russia to Oregon over two decades ago adds a unique perspective to her approach to economic development. This conversation offers valuable insights into navigating regional growth challenges and strategies for building resilient communities in a competitive national landscape.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Marta Tarantsey. -
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast, Dane talks with Darrell Scott and Jason Archer from the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership. Scott, the Vice President of Business Finance, and Archer, the Vice President of Business Development, share insights into their organization's unique role in promoting economic growth across both St. Louis City and County. They discuss their career paths, the challenges of attracting talent to the region, and highlight some of their successful projects and initiatives.
A key focus of the conversation is the Partnership's innovative Business Retention and Expansion program, which has won awards for its collaborative approach involving multiple economic development entities. The guests also touch on how COVID-19 has impacted their work, leading to more efficient virtual meetings and expanded outreach. Throughout the interview, Scott and Archer emphasize their commitment to supporting businesses of all sizes and fostering economic development in the St. Louis area.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guests: Darrell Scott and Jason Archer. -
About a month ago, I had the opportunity to appear on my friend Adam Stoker's Destination Marketing Podcast (https://destinationmarketingpodcast.com). Then, just a couple of weeks ago, Adam joined me right here on the Econ Dev Show (https://podcast.econdevshow.com/139). We thought it would be fun to switch things up and share our respective podcast episodes on each other's feeds. So, today’s episode is a bonus feature—you're about to hear my appearance on the Destination Marketing Podcast!
If you're interested in destination marketing, or want to know more about the work I did in Mariposa County, California, sit back, relax, and enjoy this special episode of the Destination Marketing Podcast."
In this episode, Adam talks with Dane Carlson, host of the Econ Dev Show and CEO of Site Hunt, about the crucial link between tourism and economic development. Dane shares his journey from blogging to economic development, including how he transformed Mariposa California by adding an escape room to the visitor center. Dane also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between economic developers and destination marketers to create meaningful visitor experiences and drive local economic growth.
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https://econdevshow.com/content/images/2024/10/2-Escape-Room.jpg Special Guest: Adam Stoker. -
In this engaging episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane is joined by Anne Krieg, the Director of Community and Economic Development for Bangor, Maine. Anne provides an insightful overview of Bangor's economic landscape, emphasizing that while tourism is a major economic driver in Maine, Bangor relies more heavily on its medical centers and educational institutions, such as the Northern Light Medical Center and the University of Maine. She discusses the effective use of federal funds to revitalize underserved neighborhoods and the significant challenges that rural communities face due to limited staffing. Through her experience and perspective, Anne highlights the importance of community-focused planning and the need for systemic changes in regional development strategies to foster lasting economic growth.
10 Actionable Insights
Livability: Focus on making your community a desirable place to live with walkable neighborhoods, good parks, and quality education. This attracts both residents and businesses who want a high quality of life.
Community Engagement: Adopt a conversational, bottom-up approach to development. Involve the community in discussions to ensure that plans meet local needs and gain their support.
Long-term Planning: Develop and think in terms of 5, 10, 15, and 20-year plans. Strategic foresight ensures sustainable development and adaptability to future needs.
Promote Your City: Actively market your city to the outside world. Attend trade shows and tell your city's story to attract new investments and visitors.
Utilize Unique Assets: Leverage unique local assets like municipal airports and foreign trade zones. Highlight and make full use of distinctive infrastructure to drive economic opportunities.
Collaborate Regionally: Foster informal regional collaborations. Work with neighboring communities to address broader economic challenges and opportunities.
Support Rural Areas: Provide assistance to smaller rural communities that lack staff and resources. Offer guidance and resources to help them navigate development challenges.
Implementing Strategies: Focus on executing developed economic strategies. Turn plans into action by ensuring your team is dedicated to following through on strategies.
Holistic Approach: Employ planners who can see the bigger picture and integrate various aspects of city planning into economic development. A holistic view can create more cohesive and well-rounded development initiatives.
Sustainable Partnerships: Establish ongoing partnerships with local institutions and organizations. Collaboration with local entities ensures continuous support and resources for development projects.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Anne Krieg. -
In this episode Dane Carlson and Beka Shiver (Economic Development and Transportation Planner for the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission) delve into the grant application process for federal programs like the Economic Development Administration. They explore a range of projects, from critical infrastructure improvements to innovative business incubators. Shiver highlights the importance of patience and effective communication throughout the grant process. She notes that while federal funding may not be ideal for urgent needs, it plays a crucial role in supporting long-term community development, particularly in historically underserved rural areas.
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Actionable Economic Development Insights
Capitalize on every opportunity: Be proactive in networking by answering all phone calls, attending relevant meetings, and consistently distributing business cards. This approach can lead to unexpected partnerships and opportunities.
Seek out multiple funding partners: Don't rely on a single source of funding. Combine resources from various entities such as county, city, and economic development commissions to create stronger, more competitive grant applications.
Aim for higher matching contributions: While federal EDA grants typically require a 20% match, providing a higher match (e.g., 35%) can make your application stand out and increase chances of approval.
Focus on regionalism and partnerships: Collaborate with multiple partners on singular projects. This approach not only strengthens applications but also fosters a spirit of regional cooperation.
Be patient with the grant process: Understand that federal funding is designed for long-term community development, not immediate needs. Plan accordingly and manage expectations.
Maintain consistent communication: Keep regular contact with funding agencies throughout the grant application and review process. This helps build relationships and keeps your project on their radar.
Look for innovative solutions: Draw inspiration from historical necessity-driven innovations to solve current challenges in rural communities. Think creatively about how to address modern problems.
Leverage STEM education initiatives: Use these programs as a foundation to build an ecosystem of innovators in the region. This can help create a skilled workforce and attract high-tech industries.
Be a good steward of resources: Continuously look for ways to maximize the impact of available funds and talents. This includes finding creative ways to stretch budgets and leverage existing assets.
Create an ecosystem for innovation: Focus on developing an environment that encourages people to try new ideas and approaches, even if they might fail. This can foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.
Diversify economic base: Work towards having a variety of industries in the region, from agricultural to manufacturing. This creates a more resilient local economy that can weather sector-specific downturns.
Leverage local strengths: Identify and utilize existing resources and industries (like major corporations or military bases) as anchors for further economic development. These can serve as the foundation for supply chains or complementary businesses.
Plan for sustainability: Think beyond the initial grant cycle. Develop strategies to maintain momentum and progress after the initial funding ends, ensuring long-term impact.
Focus on infrastructure improvements: Prioritize essential upgrades like wastewater systems, transportation networks, and broadband internet. These are often critical for attracting and retaining businesses.
Be aware of funding limitations: Understand the competitive nature of grant funding and plan accordingly. Have backup plans and alternative funding sources in case primary grant applications are unsuccessful.
Build long-term relationships: Instead of applying for grants year after year, focus on developing ongoing partnerships with funding agencies. This can lead to more consistent support and better alignment with agency goals.
Consider industrial park development: Where appropriate, explore opportunities to create or expand industrial parks. These can serve as hubs for business attraction and expansion efforts.
Embrace a long-term perspective: Recognize that significant economic development often takes years or even decades to fully manifest. Set realistic timelines and celebrate incremental progress along the way. Special Guest: Beka Shiver. -
In this episode, Dane talks with Deb Barnett, the executive director of SI Now.
SI Now is a relatively new regional economic development organization founded in the fall of 2022, serving 17 counties in Southern Illinois. She explains that the organization was created to address the need for a more strategic and collaborative approach to economic development in the region, moving away from the previous model where communities and counties worked in isolation.
During the conversation, Barnett highlights SI Now's focus on long-term economic growth and shares insights about their current projects and future plans. She also discusses her involvement in a podcast called "Small Town Big Business," which features interviews with small business owners in Southern Illinois. Barnett emphasizes the importance of storytelling in economic development and expresses optimism about the increasing number of opportunities and projects in the pipeline for the region.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Deb Barnett. -
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Carlson sits down with Adam Stoker, president and CEO of Relic, to discuss the intersection of economic development and destination marketing. Adam, whose company specializes in creating podcasts for Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), shares insights on how the strategies used in tourism promotion can be effectively applied to economic development efforts.
The conversation explores the similarities between attracting tourists and attracting businesses, with both aiming to bring outside money into specific geographic areas. The discussion then delves into the power of podcasting as a marketing tool for economic developers.
Adam emphasizes how creating valuable, educational content through podcasts can help build relationships with potential investors and businesses without resorting to direct sales pitches. He shares success stories from his experience, highlighting how inviting guests to share their stories on a podcast often yields better results than traditional outreach methods.
The episode also addresses common objections to starting a podcast, such as fear of poor performance and lack of time, with Adam encouraging economic developers to overcome these barriers and prioritize audience building for long-term success in their community promotion efforts.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Adam Stoker. -
In this episode, Bo Kemp, CEO of the Southland Development Authority discusses his unique approach to economic development through a not-for-profit organization that operates with the agility and risk-taking mindset of a for-profit business. Kemp emphasizes the importance of failing fast and pivoting quickly to optimize programs and services. He explains how his organization is structured to evaluate and stop initiatives that aren’t delivering the expected impact, which contrasts with traditional non-profits that often have difficulty abandoning projects due to the lengthy fundraising and validation process. His goal is to take on the risks that for-profit businesses avoid, using innovative techniques like measuring social impact and partnering with businesses to drive wealth-building at the municipal level.
Kemp also shares how his team is working to monetize their services by offering their proven models to other municipalities. For example, their business growth services could be replicated in cities like Tucson, Arizona, allowing other communities to benefit from their expertise and infrastructure without having to start from scratch. Kemp’s team uses tools like Salesforce and data science to manage relationships and measure success, which they are willing to share with other cities to support broader economic growth. The conversation highlights Kemp’s vision of blending for-profit efficiency with non-profit values to foster sustainable, community-centered development.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Bo Kemp. -
In this episode host Dane Carlson interviews Don Iannone (https://www.linkedin.com/in/doniannone/), the author of "America's Dream, at the Crossroads (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0D8M6LQKF/econdevshow-20)," a book that delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the American Dream, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2024 presidential election.
The discussion centers on the critical role that economic development plays in enabling Americans to achieve the American Dream, emphasizing the often-overlooked connection between economic policies and individual prosperity.
Iannone explains how economic developers are at the forefront of shaping the future of the nation, making this conversation particularly relevant for those engaged in economic development and public policy.
Through this dialogue, Carlson and Iannone highlight the importance of understanding economic development not just as a technical field, but as a fundamental driver of societal well-being and a key factor in the nation's political landscape.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps!
Actionable Takeaways
Connect Economic Development to the American Dream: Ensure that your community’s economic development initiatives are directly tied to helping individuals achieve their version of the American Dream, emphasizing job creation, homeownership, and economic mobility.
Engage in Policy Advocacy: Advocate for policies at the local, state, and national levels that support sustainable economic growth and align with the broader goals of improving quality of life and expanding economic opportunities for all.
Foster Inclusive Growth: Focus on creating opportunities that benefit all segments of the population, particularly marginalized communities, to ensure that the economic benefits of development are widely shared.
Promote Workforce Development: Invest in education and training programs that equip workers with the skills needed for the jobs of the future, ensuring that your community remains competitive in a rapidly changing economy.
Leverage Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with businesses, educational institutions, and government entities to create innovative solutions that drive economic growth and community development.
Focus on Quality of Life: Develop strategies that not only attract businesses but also enhance the overall quality of life in your community, making it a desirable place to live, work, and invest.
Communicate the Economic Development Story: Clearly articulate the role of economic development in achieving the American Dream to stakeholders, including elected officials, business leaders, and the general public.
Prepare for Economic Disruptions: Build resilience into your economic development strategies by planning for potential disruptions, such as technological changes, global market shifts, or political instability.
Measure and Communicate Impact: Regularly assess the impact of your economic development efforts and communicate these results to stakeholders to demonstrate the value of your work and secure continued support.
Stay Informed on National Trends: Keep abreast of national economic and political trends that could impact your community, and be prepared to adjust your strategies accordingly to remain aligned with broader national goals.
Other Sponsors
🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now (https://econdevshow.com/#/portal/account/plans)) and sponsors: EDOiQ (https://edo-iq.com/), ResearchFDI (https://researchfdi.com/), Jorgenson Pace (https://jorgensonpace.com), and SiteHunt (https://sitehunt.io/). (Become a sponsor (https://econdevshow.com/annual-sponsorship/).) Special Guest: Donald Iannone. -
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson interviews Alia Abbas, an economic development consultant in Canada, about the critical importance of sustainable economic development. They discuss how integrating sustainability into daily economic development tasks can build community resilience against climate change and disasters.
Alia emphasizes the need for transparent risk communication with businesses, the importance of engaging with diverse stakeholders, and the growing influence of purpose-driven development among younger generations. The episode also explores incentivizing green initiatives, learning from resilient communities, and advocating for policy changes to support long-term sustainable growth. Aliyah's insights provide a fresh perspective on creating resilient, adaptable, and sustainable communities.
Actionable Takeaways
Incorporate Sustainable Development: Economic developers should integrate sustainable development into their daily tasks, making communities more resilient to disasters and climate change.
Transparent Risk Communication: Economic developers need to openly discuss risks like floods or power outages with businesses to build trust and help them prepare for potential challenges.
Engage with Businesses on Environmental Impact: Regularly consult with local businesses to understand the environmental impacts they face and how economic development can support mitigation efforts.
Incentivize Green Initiatives: Highlight and offer incentives for businesses to adopt greener practices, such as tax breaks or credits, to attract and retain companies focused on sustainability.
Learn from Resilient Communities: Study and collaborate with communities that have successfully managed disasters to improve local emergency management strategies and resilience.
Promote Cross-Sector Collaboration: Work with diverse stakeholders, including disaster emergency management professionals, supply chain groups, and higher education institutions, to address sustainable development comprehensively.
Focus on Purpose-Driven Development: Emphasize purpose-driven projects and job opportunities to attract younger generations who prioritize making a positive impact on their communities.
Advocate for Policy Changes: Push for policy changes that support sustainable and resilient economic development, ensuring long-term community stability and growth.
Develop Workforce Programs: Create workforce development programs that focus on green skills and sustainability to prepare the local workforce for future demands.
Stay Informed and Educate: Continuously educate yourself on new sustainability initiatives and trends by engaging with businesses and participating in relevant events and organizations, like the Great Lakes Economic Development Council.
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Other Sponsors
🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now (https://econdevshow.com/#/portal/account/plans)) and sponsors: EDOiQ (https://edo-iq.com/), ResearchFDI (https://researchfdi.com/), The PACE Group (https://thepacegroup.com/), and SiteHunt (https://sitehunt.io/). (Become a sponsor (https://econdevshow.com/annual-sponsorship/).) Special Guest: Alia Abbas. -
Dane Carlson had a wild July. Quiet fireworks, a hurricane, and COVID-19. But that's not the interesting part.
The interesting part is what he built: Sitehunt now automatically responds to RFIs.
How? It reads the RFI document, extracts questions and criteria, matches your sites, and generates a response packet. All automatically.
Plus, it understands local demographics, workforce, housing, and childcare situations. It uses this to answer RFI questions more intelligently.
Dane says no other tool does all this for economic developers.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! -
About this Episode
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast (https://podcast.econdevshow.com), Dane Carlson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/danecarlson/) sits down with Lara Gale (https://www.linkedin.com/in/laragale/), Economic Development Program Manager for the Taubman Center of State and Local Government at Harvard Kennedy School (https://www.hks.harvard.edu/centers/taubman), and Alison Turner (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amturnr/), Senior Economic Development Researcher at Argonne National Laboratory (https://www.anl.gov).
Lara Gale and Alison Turner bring their extensive expertise and passion for economic development to the discussion, sharing their unique perspectives and strategic visions. They delve into innovative approaches to fostering growth and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and collaboration with various stakeholders.
Lara provides insights into her role at the Harvard Kennedy School, where she manages economic development programs and supports state and local governments through research and practical solutions. She highlights key projects and initiatives that have contributed to economic successes, including infrastructure development and community engagement strategies.
Alison discusses her work at Argonne National Laboratory, focusing on research-driven economic development. She explores the role of technology and data in shaping economic development strategies, sharing examples of how data-driven decision-making can identify trends, optimize resources, and create business-friendly environments.
Together, Lara and Alison address the unique challenges and opportunities in managing economic development in diverse contexts. They emphasize the significance of community engagement and partnerships in driving economic growth, highlighting the importance of building strong relationships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations for a holistic approach to development.
This episode showcases the innovative work being done by Lara Gale and Alison Turner, providing valuable insights and practical strategies for economic developers and community leaders looking to drive positive change in their regions.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps!
Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers
Leverage Academic Partnerships: Collaborate with academic institutions to access cutting-edge research and resources. This can provide valuable insights and innovative solutions for economic development challenges.
Utilize Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasize the importance of data in shaping economic strategies. Use data to identify trends, optimize resource allocation, and create a business-friendly environment.
Foster Community Engagement: Build strong relationships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations. Engaging the community can lead to more holistic and sustainable economic development.
Focus on Infrastructure Development: Prioritize infrastructure projects that support long-term economic growth. This includes transportation, utilities, and technological infrastructure that can attract and retain businesses.
Encourage Strategic Planning: Develop comprehensive strategic plans that outline clear goals, strategies, and metrics for success. Ensure these plans are adaptable to changing economic conditions.
Promote Sustainability: Integrate sustainability into economic development strategies. This includes promoting green technologies, energy efficiency, and sustainable business practices.
Enhance Workforce Development: Invest in workforce development programs that align with the needs of local industries. This can include training, education, and partnerships with local educational institutions.
Diversify the Economic Base: Focus on attracting a diverse range of industries to reduce dependency on a single economic sector. This can make the local economy more resilient to market fluctuations.
Implement Technology Solutions: Adopt technology solutions that streamline operations and enhance service delivery. This can include digital platforms for business support, economic forecasting tools, and more.
Evaluate and Adapt: Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of economic development initiatives. Use feedback and data to make informed adjustments to strategies and programs.
Other Sponsors
🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now (https://econdevshow.com/#/portal/account/plans)) and sponsors: EDOiQ (https://edo-iq.com/), ResearchFDI (https://researchfdi.com/), The PACE Group (https://thepacegroup.com/), and SiteHunt (https://sitehunt.io/). (Become a sponsor (https://econdevshow.com/annual-sponsorship/).) Special Guests: Alison Turner and Lara Gale. -
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show Podcast (https://podcast.econdevshow.com), Dane Carlson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/danecarlson/) sits down with Ken Chapa (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenchapa/), the Director of Economic Development and Tourism for the City of Avondale, Arizona (https://avondaleedge.com), a thriving community in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Ken Chapa shares his journey and passion for economic development, highlighting his strategic vision for Avondale. With extensive experience in the field, Ken discusses the innovative approaches he has implemented to foster growth and sustainability in Avondale. He delves into the dynamic economic landscape of the city, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and collaboration with various stakeholders to attract and retain businesses.
Throughout the conversation, Ken addresses the unique challenges and opportunities that come with managing economic development in a fast-growing urban area. He provides insights into key projects and initiatives that have significantly contributed to Avondale's economic success, including the development of the Avondale City Center, efforts to enhance infrastructure, and the attraction of healthcare and technology companies to diversify the economic base.
Ken also explores the role of technology and data in shaping economic development strategies. He shares examples of how Avondale leverages data-driven decision-making to identify trends, optimize resources, and create a business-friendly environment.
Additionally, Ken emphasizes the significance of community engagement and partnerships in driving economic development. He highlights the importance of building strong relationships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations to create a holistic approach to growth and development.
By showcasing the innovative work being done in Avondale, this episode provides valuable insights and practical strategies for economic developers and community leaders looking to drive positive change in their regions. Ken's passion for economic development and his commitment to making Avondale a thriving and sustainable community make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the field.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps!
Actionable Insights for Economic Developers:
Focus on Unique Strengths: Identify and leverage the unique aspects of your community to stand out. For Avondale, this included its young population and investment in amenities that cater to younger families and professionals.
Develop Mixed-Use Projects: Consider developing mixed-use projects like the Avondale City Center to create vibrant, multi-functional spaces that attract residents and businesses alike.
Invest in Parks and Recreation: Invest heavily in parks, recreation, and community spaces to enhance the quality of life for residents and make your community more attractive to newcomers.
Foster Strong Educational Partnerships: Build strong partnerships with local schools and universities to support education and workforce development, ensuring a skilled talent pool for local businesses.
Engage with the Community: Actively engage with residents to get their input on projects and initiatives. This helps build a sense of ownership and pride in the community.
Leverage Data for Decision-Making: Use data-driven decision-making to identify trends, optimize resources, and create a business-friendly environment.
Attract Diverse Industries: Diversify the economic base by attracting a variety of industries, such as healthcare and technology companies, to ensure economic stability and growth.
Improve Infrastructure and Connectivity: Work on transportation and infrastructure projects to improve connectivity and accessibility within the community, making it easier for people to live, work, and play.
Promote a Business-Friendly Environment: Create policies and initiatives that support local businesses and make your community attractive for new investments.
Manage Sustainable Growth: Focus on managing growth in a sustainable way that maintains the quality of life for residents and preserves the unique characteristics of the community.
Other Sponsors
🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now (https://econdevshow.com/#/portal/account/plans)) and sponsors: EDOiQ (https://edo-iq.com/), ResearchFDI (https://researchfdi.com/), The PACE Group (https://thepacegroup.com/), and SiteHunt (https://sitehunt.io/). (Become a sponsor (https://econdevshow.com/annual-sponsorship/).)
Edited Transcript
(This is an experimental AI edited transcript.)
Welcome back to the Econ Dev Show. Today we're here with Ken Chapa. He is the Economic Development and Tourism Director for the City of Avondale, Arizona. Ken, welcome to the show.
Ken Chapa: Thanks for having me, Dane. It's going to be fun being here.
Dane Carlson: Absolutely. So, Avondale, Arizona. I only know where this is because I have relatives that live right next door. What is it, Chandler or something? I can't remember. Maybe I'm totally wrong. But isn't that right next to Avondale?
Ken Chapa: So, Chandler's on the other side of the Valley, Phoenix metro area.
Dane Carlson: What's the city that's just to the west of Avondale?
Ken Chapa: Goodyear.
Dane Carlson: Goodyear. I have relatives that also live in Goodyear. I knew it was one of those.
Gotcha. So tell us about Avondale. What exactly is it? I'm assuming it's a suburb, but is that not the case?
Ken Chapa: We're definitely part of the West Valley metro area of the Phoenix Valley. We're about 45, 46 square miles, with about 98,000 people. It's one of those communities that's been growing and blossoming over the past few years. When I came on about four and a half years ago, being a smaller community in the Phoenix Metro area, my primary goal was to make sure that we stood out, that we made ourselves a little bit different than everybody else. That's been our mission. I have a great leadership team, a great mayor and council, and an awesome team that's really been helpful in achieving those goals.
Dane Carlson: That's fantastic. So how do you stand out? How does that even work?
Ken Chapa: When you go to Avondale, you made a comment earlier about, "Here's what I know about Avondale. You're next door to Goodyear." That's usually the first thing I hear. Or I hear, "You're the home of the NASCAR track."
Ken Chapa: So, with that in mind, we needed to find our own identity. We started focusing on the unique aspects of Avondale. We have a very young population with a median age of about 30, which is one of the youngest in the region. We leveraged that by focusing on amenities and developments that cater to younger families and professionals. For example, we've been investing heavily in parks, recreation, and mixed-use developments that offer a live-work-play environment. We also place a strong emphasis on education and have great partnerships with local schools and universities.
Dane Carlson: That's interesting. What kind of projects have you been working on recently?
Ken Chapa: One of our big initiatives has been the development of the Avondale City Center. This project is designed to create a vibrant downtown area with retail, dining, office space, and residential options. It's aimed at creating a central hub for our community. We're also working on several transportation projects to improve connectivity and make it easier for people to get around. Another major focus has been on attracting healthcare and technology companies to diversify our economic base.
Dane Carlson: That sounds like a lot of exciting developments. How has the community responded to these changes?
Ken Chapa: The community response has been overwhelmingly positive. People are excited to see new amenities and opportunities coming to Avondale. We've worked hard to engage with residents and get their input on projects, which has helped build a sense of ownership and pride in the community. We've also seen a lot of interest from businesses looking to relocate or expand in Avondale, which is a great sign that we're on the right track.
Dane Carlson: That's great to hear. What do you see as the biggest challenges for Avondale moving forward?
Ken Chapa: One of the biggest challenges is managing growth in a way that's sustainable and maintains the quality of life for our residents. We want to ensure that as we grow, we're doing so in a way that supports our community and preserves the things that make Avondale special. Another challenge is staying competitive in attracting businesses and talent. We need to continue to innovate and find ways to stand out in a crowded market.
Dane Carlson: Absolutely. It sounds like you have a solid plan in place. Any final thoughts or advice for other economic developers out there?
Ken Chapa: My advice would be to really listen to your community and be willing to adapt. What works in one place might not work in another, so it's important to tailor your approach to the unique needs and strengths of your area. Also, focus on building strong partnerships. Economic development is a team effort, and having the support of local businesses, schools, and residents makes a huge difference.
Dane Carlson: Great advice. Thank you so much for joining us today, Ken. It's been a pleasure talking with you.
Ken Chapa: Thank you, Dane. It's been great to be here.
Special Guest: Ken Chapa. -
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show (https://econdevshow.com/), Dane Carlson sits down with Lorie Vincent (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorie-vincent/), the founder of the Stand Up Rural America Summit (https://www.standupruralamerica.com), an innovative program aimed at empowering rural communities through economic development.
Lorie Vincent shares her journey and passion for rural economic development, spanning over 34 years and involving work with approximately 350 rural communities. She explains the inception of Stand Up Rural America, a unique summit designed to bring together rural trailblazers and change makers. Unlike traditional associations or memberships, this event is open to everyone, aiming to foster collaboration and provide actionable insights that attendees can implement in their communities immediately.
Throughout the conversation, Lorie emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in rural economic development. She discusses her extensive experience and involvement in state associations and organizations such as IEDC and SEDC, which inspired her to create an event specifically tailored to rural America. Her goal is to share the innovative and impactful work being done in these communities, providing inspiration, tools, and strategies to drive positive change.
Lorie also highlights the importance of bringing together diverse voices and experiences to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities. By showcasing successful initiatives and offering practical solutions, Stand Up Rural America aims to elevate rural economic developers and community developers, helping them create immediate and lasting impact in their regions.
Actionable Insights for Economic Developers:
Promote Community Collaboration: Foster collaboration among local stakeholders to leverage collective resources and knowledge for economic development.
Share Success Stories: Highlight successful initiatives from other rural communities to inspire and guide local development efforts.
Provide Practical Tools: Equip community developers with practical tools and strategies that can be implemented immediately to drive economic growth.
Engage Diverse Voices: Involve a diverse range of stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and inclusive economic development planning.4
Focus on Immediate Impact: Prioritize initiatives that can deliver quick wins and immediate benefits to the community, building momentum for long-term projects.
Leverage State and National Resources: Utilize resources and support from state associations and national organizations to enhance local economic development efforts.
Encourage Innovation: Support innovative approaches and creative solutions to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities.
Facilitate Knowledge Sharing: Create platforms for knowledge sharing and networking among rural economic developers to foster continuous learning and improvement.
Empower Local Leaders: Empower local leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to drive economic development and inspire their communities.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in rural economic development to ensure your strategies are effective and relevant.
By championing these principles and leveraging the insights from Stand Up Rural America, rural economic developers can drive significant and sustainable growth in their communities.
Other Sponsors
🫶 The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now (https://econdevshow.com/#/portal/account/plans)) and sponsors: EDOiQ (https://edo-iq.com/), ResearchFDI (https://researchfdi.com/), The PACE Group (https://thepacegroup.com/), and SiteHunt (https://sitehunt.io/). (Become a sponsor (https://econdevshow.com/annual-sponsorship/).) Special Guest: Lorie Vincent. -
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/danecarlson/) interviewed Eric Trevan, PhD (https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-s-trevan-ph-d-83262348), an investor, economist, and business and the President and CEO of aLocal Solutions (https://alocalsolutions.com) an AI marketing and economic analytics platform.
Their conversation dives into Eric’s extensive experience and innovative approach to economic development.
Eric shares how his career evolved from being a planning director in Southeast North Carolina to his current role, emphasizing the importance of transparency and parity in economic data. He discusses the inception of his AI platform aimed at creating equitable economic opportunities by automating and providing affordable solutions for cities of all sizes.
Throughout the discussion, Eric highlights the significance of objective and comprehensive data in decision-making, especially for local governments and economic developers who often operate with limited resources compared to large developers. He illustrates how his platform, aLocal, aggregates and analyzes vast datasets to offer predictive analytics, enabling communities to make informed decisions about economic initiatives.
The conversation also covers the evolution of aLocal from its conceptualization in 2002 to its formal establishment in 2019. Eric recounts the journey, including his academic pursuits and various leadership roles that contributed to his understanding of economic dynamics. He stresses the role of AI in leveling the playing field for smaller communities and fostering data equity, sovereignty, and diplomacy.
Eric elaborates on the platform’s capabilities, such as forecasting market demand, economic impact, and financial health at granular levels, down to zip codes. He also touches on the importance of community involvement and stake
Sponsor
Sitehunt (https://sitehunt.io/?ref=econdevshow.com) is Dane's AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database and respond to RFIs. Request a demo (https://cal.com/sitehunt/quick-walkthru?ref=econdevshow.com).
Actionable Insights for Economic Developers
Leverage AI for Data Equity: Use AI-driven platforms to automate and provide affordable economic data solutions, ensuring all cities, regardless of size, have access to high-quality data for informed decision-making.
Focus on Transparency and Objectivity: Ensure that all economic development decisions are based on transparent and objective data, reducing bias and building trust within the community and with stakeholders.
Utilize Predictive Analytics: Employ predictive analytics to forecast market demand, economic impact, and financial health, helping to guide investment and development decisions with greater accuracy.
Conduct Comprehensive Market Analyses: Regularly perform market analyses to identify industry demands, economic leakages, and financial health at a granular level, down to specific zip codes.
Engage in Stakeholder Meetings: Actively participate in and facilitate stakeholder meetings to gather community input and ensure that development projects align with local needs and priorities.
Support Data Sovereignty: Encourage communities to take ownership of their data, allowing for more accurate and relevant local economic models and better-informed decision-making processes.
Implement Customizable Solutions: Offer customizable economic development solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs and priorities of different communities, whether they require detailed market studies or broad economic impact assessments.
Foster Collaboration Across Jurisdictions: Promote intergovernmental and inter-jurisdictional collaboration to leverage shared resources and data, maximizing the impact of economic development initiatives.
Invest in Workforce Development: Prioritize workforce development initiatives to ensure that local populations have the skills needed to support new and existing industries, fostering sustainable economic growth.
Innovate and Adapt: Stay agile and open to new technologies and methodologies in economic development, continuously seeking out innovative solutions that can address long-standing challenges and drive positive community outcomes.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps!
The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now (https://econdevshow.com/#/portal/account/plans)) and sponsors: EDOiQ (https://edo-iq.com/), ResearchFDI (https://researchfdi.com/), The PACE Group (https://thepacegroup.com/), and SiteHunt (https://sitehunt.io/). (Become a sponsor (https://econdevshow.com/annual-sponsorship/).) Special Guest: Eric Trevan. -
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviews Greg Canfield, who currently serves as the Managing Director of Economic Development at Burr & Forman. Greg previously served 12 years as Secretary of Commerce for the state of Alabama. Their conversation covers Greg's career journey, and his take on the complexities of economic development.
Greg shares how he transitioned from local politics, serving as the president of a city council, to becoming the head of Alabama’s Department of Commerce. He highlights the importance of building strong relationships, understanding the needs of businesses, and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth. Greg emphasizes the significance of adapting to changing circumstances, especially in the context of the global pandemic, which has forced many economic developers to rethink their strategies and approaches.
The discussion also touches on the challenges Greg faced during his tenure, such as the global economic downturn, and how quick decision-making and consultation with influential figures helped him navigate these obstacles. Additionally, Greg provides insights into the future of economic development, stressing the need for resilience, digital infrastructure, and workforce development.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps!
Additionally: The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now (https://econdevshow.com/#/portal/account/plans)) and sponsors: join now (https://edo-iq.com/), join now (https://researchfdi.com/), join now (https://thepacegroup.com/), and join now (https://sitehunt.io/). (join now (https://econdevshow.com/annual-sponsorship/).). Special Guest: Greg Canfield. -
In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviews Amber Tarrac, CEO of Founder Fuego.
The discussion centered on the mission and activities of Founder Fuego, a company dedicated to empowering Spanish-speaking and diverse entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and knowledge they need to succeed. Amber shared insights into her transition from nearly 20 years in the public sector in economic development and workforce development to launching Founder Fuego.
The conversation highlighted Founder Fuego's innovative approach to inclusion and empowerment, focusing on their Founder Fuel newsletter, which offers weekly content with a unique Spanglish twist. This newsletter provides valuable information on funding opportunities, diverse founder stories, and essential business updates.
Amber also discussed the importance of providing bilingual resources and workshops to better serve Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs, who often feel left out of traditional economic development ecosystems. By meeting these entrepreneurs where they are, both culturally and linguistically, Founder Fuego builds trust and credibility, fostering greater engagement and participation.
Additionally, Amber emphasized the value of community and network building, leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn to enhance visibility and connections. She shared her vision for expanding Founder Fuego's impact, starting with key regions like Miami and Southern California, and the significance of cultural inclusion in economic development.
Amber's journey and the mission of Founder Fuego underscore the critical role of inclusive support in helping diverse entrepreneurs thrive, ultimately contributing to stronger and more resilient communities.
Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps!
Additionally: The Econ Dev Show is made possible by our Econ Dev Pro members (join now (https://econdevshow.com/#/portal/account/plans)) and sponsors: join now (https://edo-iq.com/), join now (https://researchfdi.com/), join now (https://thepacegroup.com/), and join now (https://sitehunt.io/). (join now (https://econdevshow.com/annual-sponsorship/).). Special Guest: Amber Tarrac. - Show more
