Economic Development – Attraction Difference Makers

Over the last few months I  have had the opportunity to hear a number of economic development (ED) experts speak to the ways communities can make their respective spheres of influence more attractive to businesses, residents and visitors. The most often asked question:

“How can we best compete in this extremely competitive environment?”

ED professionals, governmental leaders, consultants - they all seem to have similar ideas and opinions. The template is essentially the same  no matter who is delivering the message. To be competitive and well positioned for growth and sustainability  communities at a minimum must:

• be innovated
• attract talent
• provide distance communication
• provide green space for gathering
• offer a friendly tax environment
• offer affordable housing
• update infrastructure
• ensure quality education at all levels
• leverage local universities
• be clean and safe
• offer livability
• provide a platform for talent connection opportunities
• works toward racial harmony
• provide jobs that other locales cannot

As I thought about this I wondered what is the difference between successful communities and those that fail to meet expectations. I have come to the conclusion that the one consistent theme within the “gets and not gets” is leadership.

• Why does Chicago continue to be one of the world’s greatest cities?
• Why is a small town like Greenville , Michigan looking forward to recovering after the relocation of its major employer?
• Why are Charlotte NC, Denver CO, Grand Rapids, Mi., Salem, Ma., San Jose, Ca. on someone’s "best places to live" list almost always?

Because each of these cities has strong leadership.

• Chicago’s Mayor Daly is the poster child for making the tough decisions, considering only what’s best for his town. The results are clear. The only thing he seems unable to influence is Chicago’s weather. But the climate is either irrelevant or celebrated, whichever attracts visitors and citizens.
• Greenville, Michigan leadership includes the Mayor, a very involved and active DDA, and engaged citizens. After it's major  employer decided to relocate 2,700 jobs to Mexico the combined leadership of Greenville decided not to assume a “victim” mentality and instead launched steps to put itself in the position for recovery and growth.

What makes a stellar leader?  I will share my thoughts and specific examples soon.