Econ Dev Show Podcast - Economic Development

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, tourism expert Lynn Fuhler, former tourism director of Clearwater and Clearwater Beach area and author of two books on festival management, discusses the intricacies of organizing successful events and festivals. She shares her experience as the former chairman of the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, insights on community revitalization through arts and tourism, and emphasizes the importance of proper event planning, including post-event evaluation and the four key elements necessary for tourism development. Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Focus on sustainable tourism initiatives rather than just chasing big industrial projects Ensure four key elements are in place: government support, infrastructure, community support, and proper planning Use events and festivals as consistent economic drivers rather than relying solely on large, unstable employers Implement thorough post-event evaluation processes to continuously improve Build strong volunteer networks and management systems for community events Create infrastructure that serves multiple purposes (like transportation routes that benefit both tourism and industry) Recognize the role of arts communities in revitalizing declining areas Document processes and maintain organized records for event planning continuity Consider tourism as a reliable employer for entry-level and service industry workers Foster collaboration between government, business, and community stakeholders for successful tourism initiatives Special Guest: Lynn Fuhler.Links:Lynn Fuhler | LinkedInSecrets to Successful Events: How to Organize, Promote and Manage Exceptional Events and FestivalsSecrets to Successful Events Resource Guide: 42+ Easy-To-Use Forms and Tools to Save You Time and MoneyWebsites Designed to Drive Visitors | Build Relationships | Grow CustomersLynn Fuhler, Flying Compass | Tourism Marketing + Event Consultant Serving the Travel, Outdoor + Leisure IndustriesLynn Fuhler - Event and Festival Management Author, SpeakerAuthor Nonprofit Boards + Management Leadership and Festival + Event Management Expert, Speaker, CoachTopic on VimeoGrants on Vimeo

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 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." Sponsored By:Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.Links:Indiana Economic Development CorporationGov. Holcomb, IEDC continue record-breaking economic momentum, secure largest annual committed capital investment in Indiana’s history — Following back-to-back record-setting years for investment and the largest quarter on record in Q1 2024, Indiana sets yet another record with $38.3 billion in committed CapEx J. Brock H. | LinkedIn

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. Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Sponsored By:Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.Links:Redevelopment ResourcesKristen Fish-Peterson, CEcD, EDFP | LinkedinRedevelopment Resources | Facebook

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 — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Josh Wright.Sponsored By:Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.Links:The Rising Storm, a Lightcast Demographic Drought | LightcastLightcast - A Global Leader in Labor Market AnalyticsJoshua Wright | LinkedIn

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 — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Marta Tarantsey.Sponsored By:Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.Links:Marta Tarantsey | LinkedInBusiness OregonDutch BrosTuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, a Young Man, and Life's Greatest Lesson by Mitch Alborn — Marta said: "It was one of the first books I was able to read and fully comprehend, internalize, and reflect on once I learned English. Upon reading it I decided to keep in touch with those who've helped me along the way, and I still keep in touch with my college professors and mentors from eras past."

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 — even one sentence helps! Special Guests: Darrell Scott and Jason Archer.Sponsored By:Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.Launch Your EDO Podcast with the Econ Dev Show: Ready to take your economic development efforts to the next level? The Econ Dev Show has partnered with destination marketing expert Adam Stoker to help you launch a successful podcast for your EDO. Our tailored service provides the expertise, tools, and support you need to create compelling content that attracts businesses and investors to your community. Don't let the challenges of starting a podcast hold you back. Your community has a story to tell – let's amplify it together!Links:STL Partnership Wins Bronze Award for Business Retention and Expansion Excellence | St. Louis Economic Development Partnership — STL Partnership Wins Bronze Award for Business Retention and Expansion ExcellenceSt. Louis Economic Development PartnershipDarrell Scott | LinkedInBusiness Finance (Lending) | St. Louis Economic Development PartnershipJason Van Archer, MBA | LinkedInBusiness Retention & Expansion | St. Louis Economic Development PartnershipJason Archer Discusses BRE on Inside America's Best Cities Podcast | St. Louis Economic Development PartnershipJason Archer, new chair of the St. Louis County Workforce Development Board, started his career with the UAW - The Labor TribuneDarrell Scott, VP of Business Finance, Named in "Top 100 St. Louisans You Should Know to Succeed in Business" | St. Louis Economic Development PartnershipDarrell Scott in STL Small Business Monthly April 2023

About a month ago, I had the opportunity to appear on my friend Adam Stoker's Destination Marketing Podcast. Then, just a couple of weeks ago, Adam joined me right here on the Econ Dev Show. 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. Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Adam Stoker.Sponsored By:Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.Launch Your EDO Podcast with the Econ Dev Show: Ready to take your economic development efforts to the next level? The Econ Dev Show has partnered with destination marketing expert Adam Stoker to help you launch a successful podcast for your EDO. Our tailored service provides the expertise, tools, and support you need to create compelling content that attracts businesses and investors to your community. Don't let the challenges of starting a podcast hold you back. Your community has a story to tell – let's amplify it together!Links:Destination Marketing PodcastEconomic Development 139: From Tourism to Business Attraction: Podcasting in Economic Development with Adam StokerAdam Stoker | LinkedInDane Carlson | LinkedIn

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 — even one sentence helps! Special Guest: Anne Krieg.Sponsored By:Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.Links:Anne (Hoey) Krieg | LinkedInCity of Bangor, Maine

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. Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! 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.Sponsored By:Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.Links:Beka Shiver | LinkedInSouthwest Georgia Regional CommissionGeorgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing

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:Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.Launch Your EDO Podcast with the Econ Dev Show: Ready to take your economic development efforts to the next level? The Econ Dev Show has partnered with destination marketing expert Adam Stoker to help you launch a successful podcast for your EDO. Our tailored service provides the expertise, tools, and support you need to create compelling content that attracts businesses and investors to your community. Don't let the challenges of starting a podcast hold you back. Your community has a story to tell – let's amplify it together!Links:Official website of SI NowSI Now's NOW! magazineIEDC Excellence Award for regional partnershipsIEDC Excellence Award for NOW! magazineSI Now's LinkedIn pageSI Now's Twitter page