10 Economic Development Marketing Blunders to Avoid

Recently, while attending the International Economic Development Council’s (IEDC) Annual Conference in Indianapolis, I was struck by the number of people who mentioned Colleen Walton’s blog article, “Put Your Freakin’ State Name on Everything.” People loved that article (and it’s edgy title). In it, Colleen points out the common error of failing to include the state name on marketing materials. One person told us, “That’s so obvious, but it’s something many of us forget.” Then he threw us a question – “What are the most common mistakes that economic developers make when marketing their community?”

Working Together for Success

Lake Erie Shores & Islands, Ohio (Oct. 8, 2019) – You’ve read the headlines and seen the stories about the recent successes in Erie and Ottawa Counties. From new investments into the region by companies like Mucci Farms and Northern Manufacturing, to mainstays like Quarry Hill Orchards, “business is booming” in the Shores & Islands region. But do you know the stories behind those successes? Why did those businesses choose this area? What caused them to stay and expand? The answers may surprise you.

ODOT Offers Multiple Transportation Funding Opportunities for Local Communities

Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Director Jack Marchbanks rolled out the renewal of Ohio’s one-stop-shop autonomous vehicle and innovative mobility division, DriveOhio with the signing of an executive order. With the re-issuance of DriveOhio, Governor DeWine and the Ohio Department of Transportation are signaling their commitment to make Ohio a leader in 21st century mobility.

Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority Receives Two Grants Awarded by ODNR through Governor DeWine’s H2Ohio Initiative

Water quality in Toledo, Ohio, is imperative to the community’s economic, cultural, and social quality of life. Maritime commerce through the Port of Toledo supports local jobs and is an attraction for new businesses to locate in the region. The city’s waterfront is also where locals enjoy waterborne activities and where wildlife is in abundance.

Transformative Dayton Arcade Overcomes Development Hurdles

In November, a notable national Author Bruce Katz wrote about Dayton’s Arcade project as being one of the most transformational project he has seen nationwide. Bruce Katz is the Co-Founder (with Jeremy Nowak) of New Localism Advisors. The mission of the firm is to help cities design, finance and deliver transformative initiatives that promote inclusive and sustainable growth.