web02.fireside.fm Tue, 07 Apr 2026 04:11:43 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Econ Dev Show Podcast - Economic Development - Episodes Tagged with “Innovation” https://podcast.econdevshow.com/tags/innovation Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:15:00 -0600 Dane Carlson explores the strategies, ideas, and insights that are driving economic development forward into the future. You'll hear new insights from passionate ED's about their successes and struggles, and you'll learn from attraction and retention experts about how to apply actionable strategies inside your EDO. We'll help take your organization, your community, and your career to the next level. en-us episodic Actionable economic development strategies and stories Dane Carlson Dane Carlson explores the strategies, ideas, and insights that are driving economic development forward into the future. You'll hear new insights from passionate ED's about their successes and struggles, and you'll learn from attraction and retention experts about how to apply actionable strategies inside your EDO. We'll help take your organization, your community, and your career to the next level. no econ dev, economic development, ed Dane Carlson show@econdevshow.com 198: Dane With Joe Barker on the Rural Strong Podcast https://podcast.econdevshow.com/198 7efd108f-8276-4a9a-beba-60539a32417d Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:15:00 -0600 Dane Carlson 198 Dane With Joe Barker on the Rural Strong Podcast full Dane Carlson Talking Sitehunt, small towns, and staying persistent 26:41 no On this special crossover episode, Dane Carlson joins Joe Barker on the Rural Strong Podcast to talk about Sitehunt, entrepreneurship, and the power of AI to help rural and small-community economic developers compete at scale. In this episode of Rural Strong, Joe and Dane explore how AI tools like Sitehunt automate site analysis, RFI responses, and data collection — giving small EDOs the same analytical firepower as their big-city counterparts. Dane shares his unlikely journey from early-2000s internet entrepreneur to chamber president in the Sierra Nevada foothills to Texas economic-development director to startup CEO. They discuss why feedback matters more than features, why execution beats ideas every time, and why even the smallest communities need a modern website, a plan, and the willingness to pivot. Dane also unpacks how child care, housing, and workforce shortages have become the new pillars of competitiveness, why AI is best thought of as a “dim-witted but persistent intern,” and how rural leaders can use technology to take back the information advantage from site selectors. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Treat AI as an intern, not an oracle. Feed it data and context to get useful answers. Launch before you're ready. Iterate in public and let real feedback drive improvement. Build a website that sells your community. Clear contact info and photos matter more than fancy graphics. Use LinkedIn as your industry newspaper. Learn from and connect with other EDOs daily. Start a local podcast. It's the best modern BRE tool and a non-threatening way to engage businesses. Plan but pivot. No plan survives first contact with reality; stay nimble. Address child care and housing head-on. They're workforce issues now, not social ones. Prioritize execution over ideas. A mediocre idea well executed beats a brilliant idea untried. Save cash for the long haul. Entrepreneurs fail more often from running out of runway than from bad concepts. Ask for feedback early and often. It's how both products and communities get better. econdev, economic development, eco devo, ai,economic development,sitehunt,rural communities,entrepreneurship,child care,housing,workforce,planning,feedback,innovation,small towns,technology,execution,startups On this special crossover episode, Dane Carlson joins Joe Barker on the Rural Strong Podcast to talk about Sitehunt, entrepreneurship, and the power of AI to help rural and small-community economic developers compete at scale.

In this episode of Rural Strong, Joe and Dane explore how AI tools like Sitehunt automate site analysis, RFI responses, and data collection — giving small EDOs the same analytical firepower as their big-city counterparts. Dane shares his unlikely journey from early-2000s internet entrepreneur to chamber president in the Sierra Nevada foothills to Texas economic-development director to startup CEO. They discuss why feedback matters more than features, why execution beats ideas every time, and why even the smallest communities need a modern website, a plan, and the willingness to pivot.

Dane also unpacks how child care, housing, and workforce shortages have become the new pillars of competitiveness, why AI is best thought of as a “dim-witted but persistent intern,” and how rural leaders can use technology to take back the information advantage from site selectors.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

  1. Treat AI as an intern, not an oracle. Feed it data and context to get useful answers.
  2. Launch before you're ready. Iterate in public and let real feedback drive improvement.
  3. Build a website that sells your community. Clear contact info and photos matter more than fancy graphics.
  4. Use LinkedIn as your industry newspaper. Learn from and connect with other EDOs daily.
  5. Start a local podcast. It's the best modern BRE tool and a non-threatening way to engage businesses.
  6. Plan but pivot. No plan survives first contact with reality; stay nimble.
  7. Address child care and housing head-on. They're workforce issues now, not social ones.
  8. Prioritize execution over ideas. A mediocre idea well executed beats a brilliant idea untried.
  9. Save cash for the long haul. Entrepreneurs fail more often from running out of runway than from bad concepts.
  10. Ask for feedback early and often. It's how both products and communities get better.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> On this special crossover episode, Dane Carlson joins Joe Barker on the Rural Strong Podcast to talk about Sitehunt, entrepreneurship, and the power of AI to help rural and small-community economic developers compete at scale.

In this episode of Rural Strong, Joe and Dane explore how AI tools like Sitehunt automate site analysis, RFI responses, and data collection — giving small EDOs the same analytical firepower as their big-city counterparts. Dane shares his unlikely journey from early-2000s internet entrepreneur to chamber president in the Sierra Nevada foothills to Texas economic-development director to startup CEO. They discuss why feedback matters more than features, why execution beats ideas every time, and why even the smallest communities need a modern website, a plan, and the willingness to pivot.

Dane also unpacks how child care, housing, and workforce shortages have become the new pillars of competitiveness, why AI is best thought of as a “dim-witted but persistent intern,” and how rural leaders can use technology to take back the information advantage from site selectors.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

  1. Treat AI as an intern, not an oracle. Feed it data and context to get useful answers.
  2. Launch before you're ready. Iterate in public and let real feedback drive improvement.
  3. Build a website that sells your community. Clear contact info and photos matter more than fancy graphics.
  4. Use LinkedIn as your industry newspaper. Learn from and connect with other EDOs daily.
  5. Start a local podcast. It's the best modern BRE tool and a non-threatening way to engage businesses.
  6. Plan but pivot. No plan survives first contact with reality; stay nimble.
  7. Address child care and housing head-on. They're workforce issues now, not social ones.
  8. Prioritize execution over ideas. A mediocre idea well executed beats a brilliant idea untried.
  9. Save cash for the long haul. Entrepreneurs fail more often from running out of runway than from bad concepts.
  10. Ask for feedback early and often. It's how both products and communities get better.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 190: New Jersey’s Bold Playbook with Kathleen Coviello https://podcast.econdevshow.com/190 5df0fb65-09ca-4495-9b5d-2fc51af49372 Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:15:00 -0500 Dane Carlson 190 New Jersey’s Bold Playbook with Kathleen Coviello full Dane Carlson A deep dive into how New Jersey is transforming its economy through innovation, industry diversification, and creative programs with Kathleen Coviello, Chief Economic Transformation Officer at NJEDA. 30:12 no In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Kathleen Coviello, Chief Economic Transformation Officer at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, to explore how New Jersey is reshaping its economic future. Kathleen discusses the state’s targeted approach to building industries where it has a competitive edge—from film and digital media to life sciences, clean energy, and AI. She shares insights into innovative initiatives like film-ready certified towns, programs that turn company losses into cash, and the ambitious Evergreen Fund designed to attract venture capital and corporate engagement. Along the way, Kathleen highlights both the opportunities and challenges facing New Jersey, including housing affordability and talent retention, while also offering a candid look at her own journey from venture banking to two decades in public service. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Kathleen Coviello. econdev, economic development, eco devo, New Jersey, economic development, innovation, film industry, life sciences, clean energy, Evergreen Fund, venture capital, housing affordability, entrepreneurship In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Kathleen Coviello, Chief Economic Transformation Officer at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, to explore how New Jersey is reshaping its economic future.

Kathleen discusses the state’s targeted approach to building industries where it has a competitive edge—from film and digital media to life sciences, clean energy, and AI. She shares insights into innovative initiatives like film-ready certified towns, programs that turn company losses into cash, and the ambitious Evergreen Fund designed to attract venture capital and corporate engagement.

Along the way, Kathleen highlights both the opportunities and challenges facing New Jersey, including housing affordability and talent retention, while also offering a candid look at her own journey from venture banking to two decades in public service.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Kathleen Coviello.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson sits down with Kathleen Coviello, Chief Economic Transformation Officer at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, to explore how New Jersey is reshaping its economic future.

Kathleen discusses the state’s targeted approach to building industries where it has a competitive edge—from film and digital media to life sciences, clean energy, and AI. She shares insights into innovative initiatives like film-ready certified towns, programs that turn company losses into cash, and the ambitious Evergreen Fund designed to attract venture capital and corporate engagement.

Along the way, Kathleen highlights both the opportunities and challenges facing New Jersey, including housing affordability and talent retention, while also offering a candid look at her own journey from venture banking to two decades in public service.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Kathleen Coviello.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 186: The Power of Collaboration in Economic Development with Stacie LoVan of the Greater Des Moines Partnership https://podcast.econdevshow.com/186 0f9c85ff-d729-431d-a150-bd18bec4b63a Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:15:00 -0500 Dane Carlson 186 The Power of Collaboration in Economic Development with Stacie LoVan of the Greater Des Moines Partnership full Dane Carlson An inside look at how the Greater Des Moines Partnership leverages collaboration to drive regional growth, with insights from Stacie LoVan. 24:07 no In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Stacie LoVan, Senior Vice President of Economic Development at the Greater Des Moines Partnership, about the transformative power of collaboration in economic development. Stacie shares how Greater Des Moines has built a culture of regional cooperation, implemented workforce and quality-of-life initiatives, and set bold goals for 2025. Their conversation highlights best practices that other communities can adopt, from aligning diverse stakeholders to creating momentum through shared vision. Whether you’re a veteran practitioner or new to the field, this episode offers actionable strategies for strengthening your own community through collaboration. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! 10 Actionable Takeaways For Economic Developers Prioritize collaboration over competition: regional growth accelerates when communities work together instead of against one another. Define a clear, shared vision: goals like Greater Des Moines' 2025 plan keep stakeholders aligned and motivated. Leverage workforce initiatives as anchors: workforce preparedness is often the deciding factor for business attraction and retention. Balance quality-of-life improvements with economic strategies: housing, amenities, and placemaking are as critical as incentives. Build a culture of trust among partners: successful collaboration depends on consistent communication and reliability. Celebrate small wins: incremental progress builds credibility and keeps stakeholders engaged in long-term efforts. Engage the private sector early: businesses can provide funding, advocacy, and momentum for regional initiatives. Invest in regional branding: a unified message makes a region more competitive nationally and globally. Be adaptable to change: collaboration requires flexibility when balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders. Apply DSM's model to your community: while every region is unique, the principles of shared vision, trust, and collaboration can be replicated anywhere. Special Guest: Stacie Lovan. econdev, economic development, eco devo, economic development, communities, collaboration, innovation, leadership, communication, growth, strategy, practitioners, challenges In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Stacie LoVan, Senior Vice President of Economic Development at the Greater Des Moines Partnership, about the transformative power of collaboration in economic development. Stacie shares how Greater Des Moines has built a culture of regional cooperation, implemented workforce and quality-of-life initiatives, and set bold goals for 2025. Their conversation highlights best practices that other communities can adopt, from aligning diverse stakeholders to creating momentum through shared vision. Whether you’re a veteran practitioner or new to the field, this episode offers actionable strategies for strengthening your own community through collaboration.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

10 Actionable Takeaways For Economic Developers

  1. Prioritize collaboration over competition: regional growth accelerates when communities work together instead of against one another.
  2. Define a clear, shared vision: goals like Greater Des Moines' 2025 plan keep stakeholders aligned and motivated.
  3. Leverage workforce initiatives as anchors: workforce preparedness is often the deciding factor for business attraction and retention.
  4. Balance quality-of-life improvements with economic strategies: housing, amenities, and placemaking are as critical as incentives.
  5. Build a culture of trust among partners: successful collaboration depends on consistent communication and reliability.
  6. Celebrate small wins: incremental progress builds credibility and keeps stakeholders engaged in long-term efforts.
  7. Engage the private sector early: businesses can provide funding, advocacy, and momentum for regional initiatives.
  8. Invest in regional branding: a unified message makes a region more competitive nationally and globally.
  9. Be adaptable to change: collaboration requires flexibility when balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders.
  10. Apply DSM's model to your community: while every region is unique, the principles of shared vision, trust, and collaboration can be replicated anywhere.

Special Guest: Stacie Lovan.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Stacie LoVan, Senior Vice President of Economic Development at the Greater Des Moines Partnership, about the transformative power of collaboration in economic development. Stacie shares how Greater Des Moines has built a culture of regional cooperation, implemented workforce and quality-of-life initiatives, and set bold goals for 2025. Their conversation highlights best practices that other communities can adopt, from aligning diverse stakeholders to creating momentum through shared vision. Whether you’re a veteran practitioner or new to the field, this episode offers actionable strategies for strengthening your own community through collaboration.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

10 Actionable Takeaways For Economic Developers

  1. Prioritize collaboration over competition: regional growth accelerates when communities work together instead of against one another.
  2. Define a clear, shared vision: goals like Greater Des Moines' 2025 plan keep stakeholders aligned and motivated.
  3. Leverage workforce initiatives as anchors: workforce preparedness is often the deciding factor for business attraction and retention.
  4. Balance quality-of-life improvements with economic strategies: housing, amenities, and placemaking are as critical as incentives.
  5. Build a culture of trust among partners: successful collaboration depends on consistent communication and reliability.
  6. Celebrate small wins: incremental progress builds credibility and keeps stakeholders engaged in long-term efforts.
  7. Engage the private sector early: businesses can provide funding, advocacy, and momentum for regional initiatives.
  8. Invest in regional branding: a unified message makes a region more competitive nationally and globally.
  9. Be adaptable to change: collaboration requires flexibility when balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders.
  10. Apply DSM's model to your community: while every region is unique, the principles of shared vision, trust, and collaboration can be replicated anywhere.

Special Guest: Stacie Lovan.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 169: Reimagining Urban Industrial Spaces for Modern Manufacturing with Lindsay Greene https://podcast.econdevshow.com/169 442661f9-7c49-415e-a3a2-4b070a675963 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:15:00 -0500 Dane Carlson 169 Reimagining Urban Industrial Spaces for Modern Manufacturing with Lindsay Greene full Dane Carlson Lindsay Greene discusses how the Brooklyn Navy Yard is reimagining manufacturing and industrial spaces while creating sustainable economic opportunities for communities. 35:12 no In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson speaks with Lindsay Greene, CEO of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, about transforming industrial spaces for modern manufacturing. Greene shares insights on the challenges of changing perceptions about manufacturing careers, the importance of integrating workforce development with economic strategy, and her unusual career path from investment banking to grocery e-commerce before leading a major industrial development. The conversation explores how the Navy Yard creates accessible economic opportunities, the difficulties of attracting grocery stores to underserved areas, and Greene's passion for industrial policy as a driver of economic growth. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Ten Actionable Takeaways Consider integrating workforce development and economic development under one organizational structure to reduce friction and align goals. Modernize perceptions of manufacturing by highlighting how today's industrial jobs offer sustainable careers without requiring advanced degrees. Create flexible spaces like pop-up opportunities for businesses not ready to commit to permanent locations. Recognize the unique challenges of attracting grocery stores and develop targeted strategies for food access in underserved areas. Leverage social media (like Instagram) and accessible communication channels to connect with community members and businesses. Balance preservation of industrial/waterfront spaces with the need for evolution to meet modern economic needs. Build strategic partnerships that enhance both economic opportunity and quality of life for residents. Develop demonstration projects that showcase how traditional industries are transforming for the future. Consider how your personal and professional background, even if unconventional, brings valuable perspective to economic development work. Create open channels of communication between your executive team and the public to foster engagement and collaboration. Special Guest: Lindsay Greene. econdev, economic development, eco devo, Brooklyn Navy Yard, manufacturing, economic development, industrial policy, workforce development, urban renewal, sustainable careers, innovation, working waterfront, community impact In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson speaks with Lindsay Greene, CEO of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, about transforming industrial spaces for modern manufacturing. Greene shares insights on the challenges of changing perceptions about manufacturing careers, the importance of integrating workforce development with economic strategy, and her unusual career path from investment banking to grocery e-commerce before leading a major industrial development. The conversation explores how the Navy Yard creates accessible economic opportunities, the difficulties of attracting grocery stores to underserved areas, and Greene's passion for industrial policy as a driver of economic growth.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Ten Actionable Takeaways

  1. Consider integrating workforce development and economic development under one organizational structure to reduce friction and align goals.
  2. Modernize perceptions of manufacturing by highlighting how today's industrial jobs offer sustainable careers without requiring advanced degrees.
  3. Create flexible spaces like pop-up opportunities for businesses not ready to commit to permanent locations.
  4. Recognize the unique challenges of attracting grocery stores and develop targeted strategies for food access in underserved areas.
  5. Leverage social media (like Instagram) and accessible communication channels to connect with community members and businesses.
  6. Balance preservation of industrial/waterfront spaces with the need for evolution to meet modern economic needs.
  7. Build strategic partnerships that enhance both economic opportunity and quality of life for residents.
  8. Develop demonstration projects that showcase how traditional industries are transforming for the future.
  9. Consider how your personal and professional background, even if unconventional, brings valuable perspective to economic development work.
  10. Create open channels of communication between your executive team and the public to foster engagement and collaboration.

Special Guest: Lindsay Greene.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson speaks with Lindsay Greene, CEO of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, about transforming industrial spaces for modern manufacturing. Greene shares insights on the challenges of changing perceptions about manufacturing careers, the importance of integrating workforce development with economic strategy, and her unusual career path from investment banking to grocery e-commerce before leading a major industrial development. The conversation explores how the Navy Yard creates accessible economic opportunities, the difficulties of attracting grocery stores to underserved areas, and Greene's passion for industrial policy as a driver of economic growth.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Ten Actionable Takeaways

  1. Consider integrating workforce development and economic development under one organizational structure to reduce friction and align goals.
  2. Modernize perceptions of manufacturing by highlighting how today's industrial jobs offer sustainable careers without requiring advanced degrees.
  3. Create flexible spaces like pop-up opportunities for businesses not ready to commit to permanent locations.
  4. Recognize the unique challenges of attracting grocery stores and develop targeted strategies for food access in underserved areas.
  5. Leverage social media (like Instagram) and accessible communication channels to connect with community members and businesses.
  6. Balance preservation of industrial/waterfront spaces with the need for evolution to meet modern economic needs.
  7. Build strategic partnerships that enhance both economic opportunity and quality of life for residents.
  8. Develop demonstration projects that showcase how traditional industries are transforming for the future.
  9. Consider how your personal and professional background, even if unconventional, brings valuable perspective to economic development work.
  10. Create open channels of communication between your executive team and the public to foster engagement and collaboration.

Special Guest: Lindsay Greene.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 148: High-Touch Economic Development in Indiana with Brock Herr https://podcast.econdevshow.com/148 2600c8cf-42dd-4d92-a398-a684fc68fa62 Mon, 04 Nov 2024 00:15:00 -0600 Dane Carlson 148 High-Touch Economic Development in Indiana with Brock Herr full Dane Carlson Indiana Economic Development Corporation Senior Vice President Brock Herr shares insights on Indiana's comprehensive approach to economic development, from business attraction to long-term success strategies. 30:38 no 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. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! 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." econdev, economic development, eco devo, Indiana, Economic Development, Site Selection, Business Retention, Workforce Development, Supply Chain, Future Economy, Business Support, Team-based, Innovation, Partnerships 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.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Ten Actionable Insights for Economic Developers

  1. Develop a high-touch, full-experience model for business engagement
  2. Focus beyond just selling land - create comprehensive support systems
  3. Build strong introduction networks for new businesses
  4. Maintain detailed knowledge of available sites and inventory
  5. Create strategic approaches for modern site selection needs
  6. Implement business retention and expansion programs
  7. Develop clear online resources while maintaining personal connections
  8. Focus on long-term business success rather than just initial attraction
  9. Create systems to support projects of all sizes, not just large ones
  10. 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."

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 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.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Ten Actionable Insights for Economic Developers

  1. Develop a high-touch, full-experience model for business engagement
  2. Focus beyond just selling land - create comprehensive support systems
  3. Build strong introduction networks for new businesses
  4. Maintain detailed knowledge of available sites and inventory
  5. Create strategic approaches for modern site selection needs
  6. Implement business retention and expansion programs
  7. Develop clear online resources while maintaining personal connections
  8. Focus on long-term business success rather than just initial attraction
  9. Create systems to support projects of all sizes, not just large ones
  10. 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."

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 140: Transforming Southern Illinois' Economic Development with Deb Barnett https://podcast.econdevshow.com/140 a6d4dca2-6d70-4c8d-8807-57b244b34d57 Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0500 Dane Carlson 140 Transforming Southern Illinois' Economic Development with Deb Barnett full Dane Carlson Deb Barnett, executive director of SI Now, discusses the organization's regional approach to economic development in Southern Illinois on the Econ Dev Show with host Dane Carlson. 29:42 no 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. Economic development, Southern Illinois, regional collaboration, SI Now, Deb Barnett, rural economy, small business, storytelling, innovation, community partnerships, workforce development, business incubation, strategic growth, local assets, regional marketing, Field Trip Fridays, podcasting, rural revitalization, entrepreneurship, cross-county cooperation 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 — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Deb Barnett.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 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 — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Deb Barnett.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 138: Blending Non-Profit Values with For-Profit Agility: Bo Kemp’s Approach to Economic Development https://podcast.econdevshow.com/138 d8b27104-2201-4880-9b94-198df7158ba7 Fri, 06 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0500 Dane Carlson 138 Blending Non-Profit Values with For-Profit Agility: Bo Kemp’s Approach to Economic Development full Dane Carlson Bo Kemp, CEO of the Southland Development Authority shares how his not-for-profit organization drives municipal economic development by adopting for-profit agility, taking calculated risks, and monetizing their services to create sustainable, community-centered growth.​⬤ 32:11 no 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. econdev, economic development, eco devo, Bo Kemp, economic development, fail fast, municipal growth, non-profit organization, for-profit mindset, wealth building, social impact, business services, monetization, community development, innovation, agility, risk-taking, economic sustainability 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 — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Bo Kemp.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 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 — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Bo Kemp.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> 126: 1Berkshire's Wraparound Approach to Economic Development with Ben Lamb https://podcast.econdevshow.com/126 409e6d35-c99c-4a94-9901-e5fe4c62bd9f Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:15:00 -0500 Dane Carlson 126 1Berkshire's Wraparound Approach to Economic Development with Ben Lamb full Dane Carlson Dane Carlson talks with Ben Lamb of 1Berkshire, exploring the integration of economic development and tourism in the Berkshires. Lamb shares the innovative concept of 'wraparound economic development' that addresses jobs, business growth, and vital community needs, emphasizing the post-pandemic demographic shifts and the area's growing diversity. Highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration and strategic partnerships, the episode positions the Berkshires as a beacon of innovation and cultural richness, offering valuable strategies for economic developers to foster community resilience and regional prosperity. 29:58 no In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson engages with Ben Lamb, Vice President of Economic Development at 1Berkshire in Massachusetts, to unravel the synergistic blend of economic growth and tourism in the Berkshires. Ben illuminates the unique approach of integrating cultural and economic vibrancy within a rural context, underlining the strategic application of 'wraparound economic development.' This concept not only aims at job creation and business enhancement but also keenly addresses broader community needs, including housing and transit, thus fostering a holistic regional development. The discussion ventures into the evolving demographics and economic shifts in the Berkshires, emphasizing post-pandemic transformations and the region's increasing diversity. Ben underscores the significance of fostering connectivity and collaborative efforts across geographic and sectoral boundaries, positioning the Berkshires as a pivotal hub for innovation and cultural richness in the Northeast. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for economic developers and community strategists alike, offering profound lessons on leveraging adaptability, collaboration, and community-centric approaches to catalyze sustainable regional prosperity. Like this show? Please leave us a review here (https://econdevshow.com/rate-this-podcast/) — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Ben Lamb. econdev, economic development, eco devo, berkshires, economic development, tourism, innovation, community engagement, wraparound strategy, post-pandemic recovery, demographic shifts, strategic partnerships, regional prosperity In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson engages with Ben Lamb, Vice President of Economic Development at 1Berkshire in Massachusetts, to unravel the synergistic blend of economic growth and tourism in the Berkshires. Ben illuminates the unique approach of integrating cultural and economic vibrancy within a rural context, underlining the strategic application of 'wraparound economic development.' This concept not only aims at job creation and business enhancement but also keenly addresses broader community needs, including housing and transit, thus fostering a holistic regional development.

The discussion ventures into the evolving demographics and economic shifts in the Berkshires, emphasizing post-pandemic transformations and the region's increasing diversity. Ben underscores the significance of fostering connectivity and collaborative efforts across geographic and sectoral boundaries, positioning the Berkshires as a pivotal hub for innovation and cultural richness in the Northeast. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for economic developers and community strategists alike, offering profound lessons on leveraging adaptability, collaboration, and community-centric approaches to catalyze sustainable regional prosperity.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Ben Lamb.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]> In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson engages with Ben Lamb, Vice President of Economic Development at 1Berkshire in Massachusetts, to unravel the synergistic blend of economic growth and tourism in the Berkshires. Ben illuminates the unique approach of integrating cultural and economic vibrancy within a rural context, underlining the strategic application of 'wraparound economic development.' This concept not only aims at job creation and business enhancement but also keenly addresses broader community needs, including housing and transit, thus fostering a holistic regional development.

The discussion ventures into the evolving demographics and economic shifts in the Berkshires, emphasizing post-pandemic transformations and the region's increasing diversity. Ben underscores the significance of fostering connectivity and collaborative efforts across geographic and sectoral boundaries, positioning the Berkshires as a pivotal hub for innovation and cultural richness in the Northeast. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for economic developers and community strategists alike, offering profound lessons on leveraging adaptability, collaboration, and community-centric approaches to catalyze sustainable regional prosperity.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Ben Lamb.

Sponsored By:

Links:

]]>