Econ Dev Show Podcast - Economic Development - Episodes Tagged with “Small Business Support”

199: How Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Can Transform Local Economies with Martin Vanags

Dane Carlson — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:15:00 -0600

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with economic development veteran and consultant Marty Vanags about Circles of Seven, a peer-based mentoring program designed to strengthen post-startup small businesses who often fall through the cracks of traditional support systems.

Marty explains how C7 groups work, why small businesses learn best from each other, and how these circles create long-lasting bonds that improve BRE, build confidence, and ultimately make communities more attractive to prospects. He also touches on Next Wave Leadership, the importance of in-person connection, and why economic developers should spend more time nurturing the businesses they already have.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Target the "liminal stage" -- businesses past the startup phase but not yet established need the most support and often have the fewest resources.
Build peer-to-peer programs, not just classes -- small businesses learn better from each other than from lectures.
Recruit strong facilitators, not "experts" -- a good mentor is a steady guide, not a guru.
Create predictable monthly prompts (articles, videos, questions) to spark meaningful discussion.
Require at least 30 minutes on the main topic so participants get what they came for.
Train facilitators in group dynamics, not business theory -- their job is to manage conversation, not teach.
Use C7-style programs as BRE tools -- they put you in front of businesses you rarely interact with.
Remember cash flow and time are always the biggest pain points for small businesses.
Encourage in-person interaction -- especially post-COVID, live meetings build deeper relationships and accountability.
Measure success by longevity -- if your groups keep meeting years later, your ecosystem is working.

Special Guest: Martin Vanags.

181: Beyond the Strip: Clark County's Economic Transformation with Shani Coleman

Dane Carlson — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson speaks with Shani Coleman, Director of Community and Economic Development for Clark County, Nevada, about the economic transformation happening beyond the famous Las Vegas Strip.

Coleman shares insights into how professional sports teams, including the Raiders, Golden Knights, and upcoming MLB team, are driving a new sports innovation economy.

She discusses the county's five-year-old economic development department, their focus on small business support, the challenges of federal land ownership, and how California's regulatory environment is driving business migration to Nevada.

The conversation covers everything from hotel rooms of the future at Harry Reid Tech Park to plans for advanced manufacturing in areas near the proposed second airport.

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Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Lean into your existing assets - Don't shy away from what makes your community unique; figure out how to leverage those assets for economic development advantage.
Build comprehensive small business support programs - Create virtual platforms and technical assistance programs that help small businesses understand public contracting opportunities and build resilience.
Develop specialized innovation districts - Designate physical locations with boots-on-the-ground support to create environments where entrepreneurs and innovative businesses can thrive.
Create business-friendly digital tools - Develop project estimators and online resources that help businesses understand licensing, permitting, and operational costs upfront.
Focus on business retention and expansion - Don't just recruit new businesses; actively support existing businesses in growing and hiring more employees.
Build venture capital ecosystems - Work with organizations that support both entrepreneurs seeking funding and individuals wanting to become venture capitalists.
Capitalize on proximity advantages - Use geographic location and transportation access as selling points for logistics and distribution opportunities.
Plan for future land development - Engage in master planning activities even when land ownership is complicated to be ready when opportunities arise.
Diversify beyond traditional industries - Look for ways emerging sectors (like sports innovation) can create new economic opportunities in your community.
Network strategically and tell your story - Use podcasts, conferences, and digital platforms to communicate your community's business opportunities to site selectors and potential investors.

Special Guest: Shani Coleman.

144: Innovative Economic Development in St. Louis with Jason Archer and Darrell Scott

Dane Carlson — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0500

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.

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Special Guests: Darrell Scott and Jason Archer.