Dane and Barry explore Sacramento's remarkable economic transformation. Barry highlights how Sacramento has leveraged its strategic location 72 miles east of San Francisco to become one of America's premier second-tier markets, emerging as a semiconductor hub while diversifying into clean tech and agricultural research sectors.

Throughout the conversation, Barry shares his data-driven approach to economic development, his passion for working with underdog cities, and the challenges he overcame to build community trust and create a thriving economic ecosystem in California's capital region.

Barry shares insights on economic development, leadership, and the importance of data-driven decisions in driving regional growth.

The episode also covers his personal background, emphasizing Barry's passion for economic development in underdog cities and his experiences in navigating and overcoming initial challenges to build a thriving community.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 01:20 Discovering Sacramento
• 02:40 Sacramento's Economic Growth
• 04:40 Semiconductor Hub Vision
• 09:44 Infrastructure and Utilities
• 11:41 Target Sectors Beyond Semiconductors
• 14:08 Barry Broome's Journey
• 21:16 Challenges and Achievements
• 25:20 Building a Strong Board
• 29:05 Barry's Background and Philosophy
• 34:55 Conclusion and Contact Information

Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

1. Leverage your geographic proximity to major economic centers; Sacramento's 72-mile distance from San Francisco became a strategic advantage rather than a limitation.
2. Diversify your economic base beyond traditional anchors; Sacramento moved beyond government dependence to semiconductors, clean tech, and agricultural research.
3. Position your community as a second-tier market alternative to expensive primary markets, offering similar talent and infrastructure at better cost basis.
4. Use data-driven decision making to guide your economic development strategy and demonstrate measurable results to stakeholders.
5. Build strong board governance early; invest time in assembling committed leaders who can provide stability and strategic direction.
6. Target emerging sectors where your region has natural advantages; Sacramento capitalized on its research universities and proximity to Silicon Valley for semiconductor development.
7. Develop compelling narratives around your community's diversity and quality of life as competitive advantages for business attraction.
8. Address infrastructure and utilities proactively as foundational elements for sector-specific development strategies.
9. Embrace your role as an "underdog city champion"; sometimes the most rewarding opportunities are in communities others overlook.
10. Focus on long-term relationship building and community trust, understanding that transformational economic development takes years to achieve and sustain.

Special Guest: Barry Broome.

Sponsored By:

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Links:

• Barry Broome | LinkedIn
• Home - Greater Sac Economic Council
• The Way We Work: Barry Broome | Comstock's magazine
• California 2030: Greater Sacramento Economic Council President Barry Broome - YouTube
• Team - Greater Sac Economic Council
• The Semiconductor Industry's Dynamic Nature and Continuous Evolution | Nasdaq
• News & events - Greater Sac Economic Council

As a regional resource, the Carlsen Center offers programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Cameron discusses his day-to-day activities, which involve one-on-one consulting, partnership building, and running cohort programs. He shares his personal journey and the deep-rooted passion he has for making Sacramento a premier hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

The concept of "Topophilia" or love of place is explored is also explored, emphasizing the intentional building of businesses and creating opportunities within the community. Listeners gain access to valuable resources such as recommended books, organizations, and certifications related to entrepreneurship and ecosystem building.

Cameron encourages engagement and offers his support to those interested in connecting and driving entrepreneurship in their own communities.

Takeaways:

• Love of place, or "Topophilia," is a powerful driver for entrepreneurs who choose to build businesses in their communities.
• Sacramento is experiencing growth in industries such as food and agriculture, life sciences, and clean technology.
• The Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship serves as a regional resource, supporting entrepreneurs through programs, workshops, and mentorship.
• Cameron Law emphasizes the importance of intentional community building and creating opportunities within the region.

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Special Guest: Cameron Law.

Sponsored By:

• KathodeRay Media, Inc.:  [KathodeRay](https://kathoderay.com) is a full-service marketing agency that connects government organizations to their community. This small (but mighty) woman owned and operated marketing agency can help your community thrive. They use tried and true methods that will connect your organization to your residents using social, digital and traditional media. [https://kathoderay.com](https://kathoderay.com)

Links:

• Cameron R. Law | LinkedIn
• The Carlsen Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship | Sacramento State
• Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek