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Published by Courtneymargetson, 2023-01-18 06:51:47

FDI Alliance International Magazine. Autumn Interactive issue 2022

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Showcasing the most lucrative investment destinations in the world to site selectors and decision makers.

AFTERCARE: THE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
AFTERCARE: THE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE Here are some basic steps any organization or community support you can provide when communicating with your clients, don’t over
promise. At the most basic level EDOs and IPAs should keep abreast of
can take to start building out their aftercare program: government funded programs and services at the local and national level
and determine how these programs and services may assist and benefit
include all the processes, actions, communications that take place after 1. Develop an annual list of the companies in your city/state/ their companies. Being able to identify potential sources for support and
include all the processes, actions, communications that take place after
An organization’s ability to learn, and translate that learning into they have “cut the ribbon” assures your potential companies that you will be An organization’s ability to learn, and translate that learning into funding locally and nationally can be a great resource for new and existing
province/region with the greatest economic impacts (largest
they have “cut the ribbon” assures your potential companies that you will be
action rapidly, is the ultimate competitive advantage-Jack Welch working with and supporting them when the real work begins. Too many action rapidly, is the ultimate competitive advantage-Jack Welch businesses who may not have the staff or time to proactively seek out these
employers, largest investors, largest supply chains, etc.)
working with and supporting them when the real work begins. Too many
times EDOs and IPAs disappear after the ribbon cutting to start focusing types of opportunities.
times EDOs and IPAs disappear after the ribbon cutting to start focusing
2.
During a time of growing global FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) flows on the next deal or opportunity at the expense of their new and existing During a time of growing global FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) flows on the next deal or opportunity at the expense of their new and existing
Map your connections to each these companies at the local,
and projections for increased domestic investment over the next 3 to 5 businesses. In most states, over 60% of the new investments come from the and projections for increased domestic investment over the next 3 to 5 Many years ago, I saw an interview with Wayne Gretzky, the great hockey
national and regional level and develop a plan to make
businesses. In most states, over 60% of the new investments come from the
years it is time for Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) and expansion of existing businesses. Continued support of these businesses is years it is time for Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) and player. The reporter asked him, “Why are you so good?” and his response
contact with each of these companies on a consistent basis.
expansion of existing businesses. Continued support of these businesses is
Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) to begin thinking about how to important. It is the work that happens after the announcements are made Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) to begin thinking about how to was one of the best responses I have ever heard, he said, “I have learned
important. It is the work that happens after the announcements are made
3.
Obtain research on each of these companies, find out as
expand their competitive advantage by implementing robust aftercare that ensure that your newly attracted companies remain satisfied and expand their competitive advantage by implementing robust aftercare to go where the puck is going to be and not where it is.” Economic
that ensure that your newly attracted companies remain satisfied and
much as you can about them. Conduct news searches on
programs to attract new businesses and assist existing businesses to grow. engaged in your community. programs to attract new businesses and assist existing businesses to grow. Development Organizations and Investment Promotion Agencies need to
engaged in your community.
these organizations and find out when they are releasing
The Kearney Foreign Direct Investment Confidence Survey of global The Kearney Foreign Direct Investment Confidence Survey of global do the same. These organizations need to start thinking about the future
business leaders stated that, “More than three-quarters (76 percent) said IPAs and EDOs need to strive to go beyond customer satisfaction and business leaders stated that, “More than three-quarters (76 percent) said and asking these questions; Where are the markets going? What are
earnings, if they are considering downsizing or expanding, if
IPAs and EDOs need to strive to go beyond customer satisfaction and
they are experiencing supply chain or workforce issues. Use
they (global business leaders) were planning to increase their FDI in the strive for customer loyalty. New companies and existing companies are they (global business leaders) were planning to increase their FDI in the the trends and how can I get there ahead of my competition? Now is
strive for customer loyalty. New companies and existing companies are
this information to be proactive in reaching out to offer your
next three years—up from 67 percent the year prior. Further, 83 percent going to need continued support and it is going to be important that your next three years—up from 67 percent the year prior. Further, 83 percent the time for investment promotion agencies and economic development
going to need continued support and it is going to be important that your
assistance and support.
cited FDI as becoming more important for their corporate profitability and organizations can provide that support and assistance. As these companies cited FDI as becoming more important for their corporate profitability and organizations to focus their efforts on providing quality services to retain
organizations can provide that support and assistance. As these companies
competitiveness in the next three years, including 50 percent of investors grow and expand their supplier and buyer networks and as they consider competitiveness in the next three years, including 50 percent of investors investors which will eventually increase investment by existing companies
grow and expand their supplier and buyer networks and as they consider
based in the Americas who said FDI would become significantly more moving their supply chain closer to their facilities you want them to think based in the Americas who said FDI would become significantly more and attract new investors. The process of developing a comprehensive
moving their supply chain closer to their facilities you want them to think
Be strategic in assessing the best way to approach and engage each
important.” With this growth trend in mind, EDOs and IPAs must begin to of your organization and be loyal to your community. New and existing important.” With this growth trend in mind, EDOs and IPAs must begin to aftercare program will most likely require a shift in thinking and a
of your organization and be loyal to your community. New and existing
company. If you have strong connections and relationships, you may want
focus on how they are going to position themselves to take full advantage companies can be the best sales representatives. Every company knows focus on how they are going to position themselves to take full advantage reallocation of resources from other functions within these organizations.
companies can be the best sales representatives. Every company knows
to conduct one-on-one calls and meetings. If you have a large number
of these business opportunities. Concurrently, these organizations will need other companies that could be potential new business opportunities. of these business opportunities. Concurrently, these organizations will need Additionally, it will require a strategic approach to maintaining constant
other companies that could be potential new business opportunities.
of companies in the same sector you may want to consider industry
to focus on retaining their existing businesses and assisting in their growth. Essentially, good aftercare can be one of your best marketing tools. to focus on retaining their existing businesses and assisting in their growth. contact with existing businesses to keep up with their needs, concerns and
Essentially, good aftercare can be one of your best marketing tools.
roundtable sessions in person or via video conferencing that allows these
Developing strong aftercare programs can help accomplish these goals Developing strong aftercare programs can help accomplish these goals issues in an effort to provide the best support possible.
companies to come together to express their needs and concerns as a
while positioning EDOs/IPAs and the companies they serve for success. Many EDOs and IPAs provide some level or form of aftercare or while positioning EDOs/IPAs and the companies they serve for success. Many EDOs and IPAs provide some level or form of aftercare or
“business retention” services and support. However, aftercare is generally group. The roundtable format also allows companies the opportunity “business retention” services and support. However, aftercare is generally
to network and support each other. Do not look for a “cookie cutter”
If you ask a group of economic development professionals across the an afterthought and usually receives less staffing and attention than If you ask a group of economic development professionals across the an afterthought and usually receives less staffing and attention than
ERRAN F. PERSLEY
approach, assess each company or group of companies in your area and
country to diagram their business attraction or sales strategy you would the resources expended for new investment attraction, marketing and country to diagram their business attraction or sales strategy you would the resources expended for new investment attraction, marketing and
PRESIDENT/MANAGING PARTNER
find out the best way to communicate with them in an efficient and effective
EUPHRATES INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT COMPANY
receive a variety of different diagrams but few of them if any would include promotion. Based on the future growth and impact of foreign direct receive a variety of different diagrams but few of them if any would include promotion. Based on the future growth and impact of foreign direct
manner.
“aftercare”. Aftercare is forgotten but is vitally important to new business investment and projected growth expansion of existing businesses across “aftercare”. Aftercare is forgotten but is vitally important to new business investment and projected growth expansion of existing businesses across
2333 Alexandria Drive
attraction and existing business retention. Demonstrating to potential the country, EDOs and IPAs need to rethink how there are currently attraction and existing business retention. Demonstrating to potential the country, EDOs and IPAs need to rethink how there are currently
Lexington, KY 40504
It is understood that each EDO and IPA has differing levels of expertise
companies how your organization will work with them and assist in their structured and design organizations with robust aftercare programs and companies how your organization will work with them and assist in their structured and design organizations with robust aftercare programs and
(859) 514-6002
and funding so be clear and transparent about what types of services and
future growth during the “sales process” will make you more competitive in services. A strong aftercare program can help ensure that existing investors future growth during the “sales process” will make you more competitive in services. A strong aftercare program can help ensure that existing investors
your new business efforts. Knowing that you have aftercare programs that not only stay but grow in your community. your new business efforts. Knowing that you have aftercare programs that not only stay but grow in your community.
51. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

STATE OF IOWA

manufacturers produce everything from food and responsive regulatory environment, and The state of Iowa is the perfect place to
products and medical devices to aerospace offers one of the lowest insurance premium expand, locate or start a business. The state’s
Iowa, its name derived from the Native the forefront of breakthroughs in plant, animal products and construction machinery. tax rates in the country — one percent. pro-business policies, nationally recognized
American Ioway people who once inhabited and human bioscience industries. Iowa is a right research centres and legendary Midwestern
the region, became the 29th state in 1846. to work state with a low cost of doing business. Iowa is perfectly positioned to export these Strong industry leadership has also helped work ethic give businesses with an Iowa
The Mississippi River forms its entire eastern The state’s success may be partially because products around the globe, with a strong Iowa become an innovation hub for insurance location a huge competitive edge. Those
border, and the Missouri River and a tributary, Iowa has a business climate that consistently transportation network with access to air, water, technology. Established in 2015, Iowa’s business advantages paired with a low cost
the Big Sioux, form the western border, ranks among the best in the nation. rail and highway. In addition, Iowa’s skilled Global Insurance Accelerator (GIA) is the of doing business, central location, abundant
making Iowa the only state with two parallel talent pool and state-of-the-art training world’s first business accelerator focused raw materials and efficient transportation
rivers defining its borders. It is bordered by Whether you’re just starting out, pursuing the and research programs at our colleges on Insurtech and has helped numerous infrastructure continue to fuel Iowa’s
Minnesota to the north, Wisconsin and Illinois next phase of your career or expanding your and universities offer a wealth of workforce insurance companies from around the world economy.
east, Missouri south, Nebraska and South business, Iowa is where you belong. We’re resources. grow and expand.
Dakota to the west. home to thriving and energetic communities
and a destination for cutting-edge careers Iowa’s combination of business-friendly
According to U.S. News and World Report this Governor Kim Reynolds across a variety of fields – biosciences, government policies and tax structure,
year, Iowa is ranked as the best state in the technology, finance, insurance, healthcare, connection to centres of research excellence and
nation. Our continued commitment to making agriculture and advanced manufacturing, just strong transportation network have established
Iowa a great place for job-seekers, new business care and information technology. But through to name a few. Iowa as a leader in advanced manufacturing.
and education contributes to what makes Iowa dynamic public-private partnerships, we’ve
the best place to live in the U.S. implemented innovative solutions that start in Iowa’s much more than just a place that’s Home to over 6,800 finance and insurance
our schools and continue in the workplace to great for growing a career – with a top- companies and a workforce of more than
Iowa’s greatest opportunity for economic ensure that opportunity lives here. ranked quality of life that’s as desirable as it 95,000 talented professionals, Iowa is one of
growth is to build a workforce that’s nimble, is attainable, it’s a place you and your family the nation’s top headquarters for the finance
highly skilled and filled with lifelong learners. Iowa is the perfect state to do business. will be proud to call home for years to come. and insurance industries.
Today, we are experiencing a shortage Manufacturing is strong, and the financial
of skilled workers across every region of services sector is thriving. In a state with world- Advanced manufacturing is Iowa’s largest Iowa is the perfect place to expand, relocate or
our state and all types of industries from renowned research institutions and robust industry, accounting for more than 17 start a financial services business. Iowa leads
manufacturing and skilled trades, to health innovation, Iowa bioscience companies are at percent of the state’s total GDP. Nearly 7,000 with a pro-business mindset, a progressive

52. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Shannon when was the Iowa Lakes and local organization contacts work in data that is current, industry-specific, and
Development Corporation organised? partnership to bring projects to reality. hyperlocal. Use this tool to discover potential
customers and suppliers, optimize marketing
The Iowa Lakes Corridor Development What are the leading industry sectors in
Corporation was initially organized in 1992 the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development to ideal customers, analyze characteristics
as an economic development partnership Corporation? What industries do you and spending of the consumers in your area,
between Clay and Dickinson Counties. It see growing rapidly in the future? and rank your industry performance across
was officially incorporated in 1997 and multiple measurements.
expanded to include Emmet and Buena Iowa is agriculture, and that has led to
Vista Counties in 2005 and 2006. value-added ag production, advanced Shannon while the Corridor has so
manufacturing, advanced agriculture many great programmes in place, what
What is the mission and objective of technology, food processing, renewable strategies have been implemented to
this organisation? energy, bioscience, data & information highlight each county and community's
technology. In northwest Iowa we plan to unique assets while also collaborating
Our mission is "To foster, encourage, promote,
aid or otherwise assist in the economic growth keep doing what we are good at, and that as a larger region for growth?
and development of the four-county region." includes focusing on these named industries. Every community is different, and those unique
The Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Our companies in manufacturing and food qualities are considered assets. From the lakes
Corporation was organized to provide production have a global reach and have area itself being known as a tourism center
economic development services for the been working in their respective industries for to the manufacturing base in Spencer, the
region. While we have great communities, generations. These companies have chosen celebration of a diverse workforce in Storm
we have found that the collaboration of northwest Iowa and found success here. We Lake to the strong education foundation in
the four-county region creates a stronger will continue to key in on those strengths place in Estherville, we can offer great variety
economic development effort. We are able to that have positioned these companies well. to companies looking at the Corridor region.
sell greater assets as a region and see greater What is the SizeUpIowaLakes interactive Essentially, we look for business-to-business
benefit and growth to all of our communities tool? How does this tool assist small partnerships, community collaborations and
when working as a larger program. businesses looking to start or expand those quality of place amenities to focus on
in the Iowa Lakes Corridor? growth strategies that are specific to each
What communities make up the Iowa community. When taking each community
Lakes Corridor region, how is economic SizeUpIowaLakes is an interactive tool to and building that into the larger regional
growth and development fostered and provide small businesses with powerful footprint, we have a stronger collaboration
encouraged in this four-county region?
The Iowa Lakes Corridor is made up of
Buena Vista, Clay, Dickinson and Emmet
Counties in Northwest Iowa. The county
seat communities are Storm Lake, Spencer,
Spirit Lake and Estherville. The Iowa Lakes
Corridor Development Corporation leads
economic development efforts for the four-
county region. This is done through efforts in
business retention, expansion and attraction
efforts with an eco-system of support from
first conversation through transition. Local
incentive programs are in place to support
projects and leverage state incentive offerings.
Along with the Corridor team, elected officials

54. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

of sector partnerships, more significant upon the specifics of your project and are and infrastructure are in place for businesses
concentration of specific industries and subject to the approval of the governing to succeed, including water availability.
greater ability to create value propositions bodies of these organizations. Workforce participation rates and support
per industry. for education in high-demand career fields
How do your local training programme make Iowa a location that will continue to
Briefly outline the business expansion opportunities ensure a highly skilled be competitive.
and strategic trends programme. (BEST workforce in your four-county region?
of Iowa )
Partnerships between our schools, colleges
The BEST of Iowa program is a statewide and businesses are strong in the region.
business retention and expansion effort.
While local economic developers utilize this In Iowa, investments are being made in
opportunity to build relationships with existing our workforce. From an early age, there is
industries and assist in meeting their growth programming within the schools that focuses
goals, at the state level the data is used to on entrepreneurship as well as occupations.
look at trends in target industries, as well as Our primary schools partner with businesses Shannon Landauer,CEcD
develop state programming and legislative to provide on-site education. Programs such
efforts to help the broader growth goals of as 260E and 260F at the state level provide PRESIDENT & CEO AT IOWA
the state of Iowa. We see our existing industry training to new and existing employees. LAKES CORRIDOR
as our greatest strength. The growth and Last dollar scholarships are awarded to
innovation of our companies, particularly students in high-demand career fields, and m
advanced manufacturing, are really setting our intern and apprenticeship programs are 520 2nd Ave. E., Suite 2, Spencer,
the stage for the future of rural Iowa. bringing forward talent with in-demand and IA 51301
marketable skills.
What local and state incentives are in n
place for new businesses operating in Shannon what makes Iowa Lakes Corridor 712-264-3474
Iowa Lakes Corridor? a premier investment location in 2023 e
and beyond? [email protected]
Local incentives vary by community, but can
include tax increment financing, tax abatement, There are a number of reasons that Iowa is d
tax rebate and more. Contact the Corridor a premier location for growth. This includes lakescorridor.com
team with project details to explore local a pro-business political climate at the state
options for your project. and local level, ease of access to elected
officials and program representatives and
Additionally, several revolving loan funds a culture of work ethic, affordability and
are available to serve as gap financing. The safety of communities to make it a great
amount and terms of these loans depend opportunity for talent to thrive. The utilities

55. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Shocked that, in this era, something like that
was not available, Hanan investigated further.
She assumed she had just not found it yet. After
hitting dead ends everywhere she concluded
that, indeed, nothing like that existed. But, she
thought, it should!

Thus, was born Neighborhood Pal.
It is a patented software platform that enables
real estate professionals to easily create
professional-quality narrated virtual tours
of the neighborhoods and points of interest
surrounding their listings. They are building a
database of geocoded neighborhood images,
video and narrative.

It facilitates real estate professionals being able
to provide their clients with a user-friendly and
convenient way of exploring a neighborhood.
This provides realtors to provide a higher level
of service; enabling them to be that Golden Egg.

I include Neighborhood Pal here because it is
unexpected that it did not exist – until now.
BET YOU DIDN’T SEE THAT COMING! VIDEO BROCHURES Video garners attention. Those video brochures Someone will make the improvements, so why
not you?
are indeed an unexpected Golden Egg.

Out There Branding is a company in New South How can YOUR organization develop Try this. Alone or with your team hold an idea
Wales, Australia that provides promotional Unexpected Innovations? creation session. Write out a list of the most
Remember when Thomas Edison debuted motion In this article, I am going to tell you about three Titles in the LIT Videobooks library include the products and corporate gifts of all sorts. Like One good way to do it is to use a creative thinking ridiculous questions you can think of.
pictures? innovations that are completely unexpected. aforementioned Contagious, the Robert B. Cialdini competitors, they provide traditional products method called Ask A Ridiculous Question.
They are what I refer to as Golden Eggs. In a classic, Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion of outstanding quality and design. That hardly Next, consider each and ask:
Of course you don’t! But, I bet you DO remember vast sea of white eggs, the Golden one gets and Marshall Goldsmith’s masterpiece, What makes them – or their clients – a Golden Egg. Imagine a couple of broke people sitting in their In what ways might this work?
when Steve Jobs rolled out the iPhone. You might noticed. Later, I will also give you a way to create Got You Here Won’t Get You There. There are a apartment lamenting that the rent is overdue. In what ways might this serve people better?
also recall when Apple and Mr. Jobs completely the unexpected. multitude of others and many more on the way. But company CEO Roy Kowarski has a secret They are fantasizing / brainstorming ways they In what ways might this make money?
changed the music industry by introducing the weapon. In recent years they began offering could make money. Feeling stupid for even thinking
iPod. LIT VIDEOBOOKS Unexpected indeed! something very unexpected; Video Brochures. it, one blurts out, “There’s a music festival coming Asking seemingly ridiculous questions opens
up. I wonder if people would pay us to sleep on an the mind to previously unexplored possibilities.
In the twenty first century, revolutionary Movies are made from fiction books, biographies NEIGHBORHOOD PAL But, brochures are paper, right? That is what we air mattress on our living room floor?” Doing so might just lead you to develop the next
technological innovations seem to happen every or harrowing life stories, right? Movies are never have come to expect. But, people have grown Unexpected Innovation. Your motion pictures,
other day. They have become so commonplace made from informational books. In late 2019 Hanan Kamal Eldahry was increasingly impatient with wading through lots of A ridiculous question, right? Who would pay for iPod or iPhone; a Golden Egg!
we barely pay attention to them. preparing to make a move to a completely text. We have become video junkies. Roy decided that?
But, what if they were? And, what if those movies unfamiliar city when she made a shocking to capitalize on that trend and offer a product that
Consider this. All the information about any were entertaining and compelling? discovery. The realtor she was working with had swims with the current rather than against it. Well, apparently some people would! Those
subject you want to know about is available on loads of information about properties; offering guys ran an ad on Craigslist and sold-out space
demand in the palm of your hand. You can touch That is exactly what LIT Videobooks has done! price, lot size, semi-annual taxes. All the things Mr. Kowarski says, “People are used to the price on their floor in a short amount of time. That
a couple of buttons and be chatting with almost you expect to see. In addition, Hanan was of traditional paper brochures. So, when they seemingly ridiculous question was the genesis of
anyone anywhere on the planet – FOR FREE! I first learned about them when I posted a quote able to access pictures and video tours of the hear what the investment is for a video brochure, what is now AirBnB.
from a book called Contagious: Why Things properties she was considering. their jaw hits the floor.”
When you stop to think about it, that is about as Catch On. Recognizing an opportunity, one of How about this question: What if we could run a
close to a miracle as one can get, right? their reps named Nick Simon reached out to me You know what she couldn’t find? And, her But, the ones who have seen past that initial taxi service without owning any vehicles? I don’t
to offer a free trial. That was an offer I couldn’t realtor could not provide? sticker shock and invested in the video brochures know if they asked that question, but it could
But, we don’t stop to think about it. Human beings refuse. Video Tours and pictures of the neighborhoods! are happy that they did. One company who did, have been what gave birth to Uber. BOB SAGER
tend to take for granted anything they are around chose a video brochure that featured six of their FOUNDER, SPEARPOINT SOLUTIONS, LLC
continuously. So, despite the fact that we witness After the first five minutes of experiencing the Oh, certainly there were YouTube videos and product offerings. The sales of each skyrocketed. To be clear, innovation does not have to be
miracle after miracle, we are unimpressed. videobook version of Contagious, I was blown Google Street View. But, those still left much to be And, the head of sales at that company told Roy technologically oriented. Innovation is altering [email protected]
away! By the way, this is how revolutionary and desired. She found them to be misleading and that customers repeatedly told him they ‘did anything in a way that improves it. It can be
Why? unexpected this innovation is. In writing this not nearly as informative as speaking to people not know their company sold that’. Yet, each technology. But, it could also be something that
article, I saw that MS Word underlined the word on the ground and hearing their narrations. of those products had been featured in their improves a process, customer service, employee www.spearpointonline.com
Because it has become…expected. videobook in red. previously published print brochures. engagement, etc.

57. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Community and economic developers play a Community and economic developers play a
role in shaping these ideas. They are typically the role in shaping these ideas. They are typically the
resource people who are on trend and watching resource people who are on trend and watching
the demands of the market. Sometimes they are the demands of the market. Sometimes they are
not taken seriously because they represent the future not taken seriously because they represent the future
and what is coming. They are typically proactive. and what is coming. They are typically proactive.
Community leaders who listen to their community/ Community leaders who listen to their community/
economic developers and try to plan accordingly, economic developers and try to plan accordingly,
are going to be a step ahead of those who do not. are going to be a step ahead of those who do not.

BE UNIQUELY YOU BE UNIQUELY YOU
Small communities have a lot to offer. Rather Small communities have a lot to offer. Rather
than looking at what you are not, and trying to be than looking at what you are not, and trying to be
different, think about the core identity of your city. If different, think about the core identity of your city. If
you aren’t sure what that is, ask a few people why you aren’t sure what that is, ask a few people why
they live there. they live there.

HERE IS A SMALL LIST OF ITEMS THAT HERE IS A SMALL LIST OF ITEMS THAT
MAKE YOU UNIQUE: MAKE YOU UNIQUE:

1. The energy of your town. Do you have 1. The energy of your town. Do you have
good leadership, progressive thinkers, good leadership, progressive thinkers,
people working together to make people working together to make
things happen in your town? That is things happen in your town? That is
ATTRACTING TALENTED WORKFORCE something people want to be part of.

something people want to be part of.
2. Unique culture. Every city has their 2. Unique culture. Every city has their
own personality and culture. It is often IN SMALL CITIES own personality and culture. It is often
something everyone knows but it goes something everyone knows but it goes
unspoken and un-marketed. What is unspoken and un-marketed. What is
the culture of your community? Is it art? the culture of your community? Is it art?
Church? Agriculture? The outdoors? Church? Agriculture? The outdoors?
Diversity? Whatever it is, promote it! Diversity? Whatever it is, promote it!
The internet and digital work are changing the 2. Schools are smaller, allowing families to feel keep their workforce happy. If this means building
3. Creativity. Is your town full of
landscape in small communities. safer and that their child is more than a number. in places that make their workers happy, that is 3. Creativity. Is your town full of
entrepreneurs, crafty people, musical They can also receive more specialized services what some are doing. This opens another door to entrepreneurs, crafty people, musical
bands, high-tech individuals? There
Digital work means many jobs can be done from future. The future is filled with technology and most small cities. bands, high-tech individuals? There future. The future is filled with technology and most shift continues to happen, it opens up new
and attention. Small schools also allow students to shift continues to happen, it opens up new
are people who would love to be
be able to participate in more activities like sports, opportunities to attract talent to smaller cities.
almost anywhere if there is a good signal. Services small cities are lacking workforce in that industry. are people who would love to be small cities are lacking workforce in that industry. opportunities to attract talent to smaller cities.
part of a community like that. But,
like Starlink have made internet access obtainable band or academic competitions. As a city planner or community/economic part of a community like that. But,

they have to know about it first.
in even the smallest, rural places, making remote Some great ways to fill these gaps are to work For more information about The Rural Spark, they have to know about it first. Some great ways to fill these gaps are to work For more information about The Rural Spark,
developer, it is important to realize these shifts and
3. Opportunities for Growth. While small check out www.theruralspark.com.
jobs even more obtainable. with your local high school, community colleges try to become a community where people want to with your local high school, community colleges check out www.theruralspark.com.
4. Proximity. This word makes us think of and universities. Find out what types of programs live. Or, if your community is already doing these 4. Proximity. This word makes us think of and universities. Find out what types of programs
communties may have the stigma that nothing
distance to the next big city, but what
Remote work is changing people’s lives and small are already in the schools or help connect the, things, it is important to start marketing them. distance to the next big city, but what are already in the schools or help connect the,
is happening, there are many opportunities for
is your proximity to the mountains, the
communities are the benefactor. There is no longer schools with organizations who help do this. is your proximity to the mountains, the schools with organizations who help do this.
growth. Entrepreneurs are welcome and needed
beach, the music scene, local festivals,
the need to live on top of each other, fight traffic, in small places. Business start-up costs are lower Here is a simplified list of what people want: beach, the music scene, local festivals,
adventures, shopping, or tours of some
or live in cramped quarters just to have that great Another great option is to start an incubator for 1. They want a clean community. adventures, shopping, or tours of some Another great option is to start an incubator for
and there is typically less red tape. Not to mention
kind? What are you in the center of?
job. And, remote workers bring spouses and family technology related businesses. As these grow, 2. They want a safe community. kind? What are you in the center of? technology related businesses. As these grow,
there are huge gaps in the market, allowing for
members that are welcomed additions to the talent you are not only creating businesses, but you 3. They want a walkable community. you are not only creating businesses, but you
manufacturing and retail that does not current exist.
5. Inclusivity. Is your town inclusive?
pull and workforce needs in our small communities. are building a tech workforce. 4. They want services. 5. Inclusivity. Is your town inclusive? are building a tech workforce.
People want to be included in ... 4. Quality of Life. Possibly the number one reason People want to be included in ...
leadership decisions, school activities,
First, let’s discuss the advantages of living in smaller Here are a couple of unique programs to check This list could be much longer, but these are a few leadership decisions, school activities, Here are a couple of unique programs to check
people move out of the city is to have a better quality
entrepreneurship activities and more.
of life. There is room to spread out, less traffic, and
cities and rural places. out https://www.ruraltechproject.com, and staples that everyone wants and needs. These entrepreneurship activities and more. out https://www.ruraltechproject.com, and
If your town is doing this well, market it. https://4-h.org/ways-to-give/corporate- are things that will bring future workers to your If your town is doing this well, market it. https://4-h.org/ways-to-give/corporate-
hopefully less anxiety in smaller places. There is less
JIMI COPLEN
JIMI COPLEN
1. Affordability. Typically, the cost of housing and foundation-support/google/. community. Is your community building a new foundation-support/google/. THE RURAL SPARK
pollution. There is the space to grow your own food,
THE RURAL SPARK
services are less expensive in a small community. a trend we are seeing more and more of. park? How close is it to the rest of the community
www.theruralspark.com
This allows people to save money or drop one of Small communities will continue to grow and
GROW YOUR OWN Can you walk there from the downtown shopping GROW YOUR OWN Small communities will continue to grow and www.theruralspark.com
their jobs. It could be the difference of being able thrive as the digital world makes more and
If you build it, they will come. You need to start filling Next, it is important to realize that companies are area? These are things city planners need to take If you build it, they will come. You need to start filling thrive as the digital world makes more and [email protected]
[email protected]
to stay home with your children rather than putting more allowances for remote work. As this
the gaps and growing your community towards the relocating to where their employees want to be. into consideration as they are planning for the the gaps and growing your community towards the more allowances for remote work. As this
them in daycare. Workforce is hard to find, and companies want to future of the community.
58. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Community and economic developers play a
role in shaping these ideas. They are typically the
resource people who are on trend and watching
the demands of the market. Sometimes they are
not taken seriously because they represent the future
and what is coming. They are typically proactive.
Community leaders who listen to their community/
economic developers and try to plan accordingly,
are going to be a step ahead of those who do not.

BE UNIQUELY YOU
Small communities have a lot to offer. Rather
than looking at what you are not, and trying to be
different, think about the core identity of your city. If
you aren’t sure what that is, ask a few people why
they live there.

HERE IS A SMALL LIST OF ITEMS THAT
MAKE YOU UNIQUE:

1. The energy of your town. Do you have
good leadership, progressive thinkers,
people working together to make
things happen in your town? That is
ATTRACTING TALENTED WORKFORCE something people want to be part of.

IN SMALL CITIES 2. Unique culture. Every city has their
own personality and culture. It is often
something everyone knows but it goes
unspoken and un-marketed. What is
the culture of your community? Is it art?
Church? Agriculture? The outdoors?
Diversity? Whatever it is, promote it!
The internet and digital work are changing the 2. Schools are smaller, allowing families to feel keep their workforce happy. If this means building
landscape in small communities. safer and that their child is more than a number. in places that make their workers happy, that is 3. Creativity. Is your town full of
They can also receive more specialized services what some are doing. This opens another door to entrepreneurs, crafty people, musical
Digital work means many jobs can be done from and attention. Small schools also allow students to small cities. bands, high-tech individuals? There future. The future is filled with technology and most shift continues to happen, it opens up new
almost anywhere if there is a good signal. Services be able to participate in more activities like sports, are people who would love to be small cities are lacking workforce in that industry. opportunities to attract talent to smaller cities.
like Starlink have made internet access obtainable band or academic competitions. As a city planner or community/economic part of a community like that. But,
in even the smallest, rural places, making remote developer, it is important to realize these shifts and they have to know about it first. Some great ways to fill these gaps are to work For more information about The Rural Spark,
jobs even more obtainable. 3. Opportunities for Growth. While small try to become a community where people want to with your local high school, community colleges check out www.theruralspark.com.
communties may have the stigma that nothing live. Or, if your community is already doing these 4. Proximity. This word makes us think of and universities. Find out what types of programs
Remote work is changing people’s lives and small is happening, there are many opportunities for things, it is important to start marketing them. distance to the next big city, but what are already in the schools or help connect the,
communities are the benefactor. There is no longer growth. Entrepreneurs are welcome and needed is your proximity to the mountains, the schools with organizations who help do this.
the need to live on top of each other, fight traffic, in small places. Business start-up costs are lower Here is a simplified list of what people want: beach, the music scene, local festivals,
or live in cramped quarters just to have that great and there is typically less red tape. Not to mention 1. They want a clean community. adventures, shopping, or tours of some Another great option is to start an incubator for
job. And, remote workers bring spouses and family there are huge gaps in the market, allowing for 2. They want a safe community. kind? What are you in the center of? technology related businesses. As these grow,
members that are welcomed additions to the talent manufacturing and retail that does not current exist. 3. They want a walkable community. you are not only creating businesses, but you
pull and workforce needs in our small communities. 4. They want services. 5. Inclusivity. Is your town inclusive? are building a tech workforce.
4. Quality of Life. Possibly the number one reason People want to be included in ...
First, let’s discuss the advantages of living in smaller people move out of the city is to have a better quality This list could be much longer, but these are a few leadership decisions, school activities, Here are a couple of unique programs to check
cities and rural places. of life. There is room to spread out, less traffic, and staples that everyone wants and needs. These entrepreneurship activities and more. out https://www.ruraltechproject.com, and
hopefully less anxiety in smaller places. There is less are things that will bring future workers to your If your town is doing this well, market it. https://4-h.org/ways-to-give/corporate- JIMI COPLEN
1. Affordability. Typically, the cost of housing and pollution. There is the space to grow your own food, community. Is your community building a new foundation-support/google/. THE RURAL SPARK
services are less expensive in a small community. a trend we are seeing more and more of. park? How close is it to the rest of the community
This allows people to save money or drop one of Can you walk there from the downtown shopping GROW YOUR OWN Small communities will continue to grow and www.theruralspark.com
their jobs. It could be the difference of being able Next, it is important to realize that companies are area? These are things city planners need to take If you build it, they will come. You need to start filling thrive as the digital world makes more and [email protected]
to stay home with your children rather than putting relocating to where their employees want to be. into consideration as they are planning for the the gaps and growing your community towards the more allowances for remote work. As this
them in daycare. Workforce is hard to find, and companies want to future of the community.

59. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

STATE OF MISSOURI

Missouri is one of the country’s chief agricultural MANUFACTURING
states and the most important manufacturing Today’s plants are not your old-time manufacturing
state in the Midwest. The state is a chief producer floors. They require precision tools and equipment,
of beef, cattle, corn, hogs, and soybeans. Cattle tech platforms and solutions, and a workforce with
raising dominates the western part of the state cutting edge skills. Missouri is where manufacturing
and manufacturing is the biggest activity in the meets innovation.
east. These products are shipped all over the
country on the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. FINANCIAL
The estimate for the population of Missouri in Missouri is the only state with two Federal Reserve
2022 is 6.2 million Banks (Kansas City and St. Louis) and home to the
regional headquarters of major banks including
From startup firms to global corporations, Bank of America, U.S. Bancorp, Regions Bank as
Missouri’s pro-business climate continues to offer Governor mike parson well as the HQ for Commerce Bank, Central Bank,
a perfect location for all industries to thrive. The and UMB Bank. Missouri is also one of only nine
“Show Me State” offers a low tax rate, reduced states with a AAA from all three rating agencies,
red tape and business friendly regulations. Your AUTOMOTIVE delivering a constant environment for investors and
business in Missouri will also benefit from the With historic investments by Ford and GM, the commerce.
low utility rates, central location and cutting- rebirth of the automotive industry is happening in
edge workforce training solutions. Whether you Missouri. Become part of one of the largest auto TRANSPORTATION
are there to grow your business, find a career, supply chains in the nation where America’s top Missouri has the 6th best highway system, largest
raise a family, produce a film, or take a family vehicles, like the Ford F-150. waterway system, 99 airports, and two of the
vacation, you will feel right at home in Missouri. largest rail terminals in the U.S with access from
SCIENCES coast to coast, east to west. There central location is
With the 4th most diverse economy, one of the Missouri is home to the largest concentration of in close proximity to major manufacturers, and low
lowest costs of living, a central location, and home animal health research and food companies as gas taxes maintain moving products, like those of
to a highly-skilled and educated workforce, well as the most plant scientists per capita. This is Kraft Foods and Toys’R Us, to customers rapidly and
Missouri provides the perfect environment along where innovation starts and thrives. proficiently.
with the necessary assets to help businesses
succeed. To build up and attract some of the ENERGY Missouri is confident that when it comes to our
fastest-growing industries and leaders in next- Whether you’re in the business of energy production overall business climate, they rank among the best
generation job creation, such as tech and energy or storage, Missouri’s high-tech environment, natural states in the U.S, they know that when it comes
solutions, Missouri refocused its resources to target resources, and central location make it easier to down to it, Missouri can offer the seamless location
companies in the following sectors: connect to the grid affordably and efficiently. for your company’s unique needs and goals.

60. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

The other key takeaway from these assessments to having a career. The long-term benefit is can’t bring in engineers, and hospitals won’t attract
is that it is going to take everyone to address when students see jobs that interest them right nurses if they can’t find a place to live. The increase
the issues. In interviews with employers, educators, at home, they are more likely to stay or come in interest rates is starting to cool the housing market
employees, and students and, in one assessment, back after further education. There are lots of and may take some of the pressure off pricing for
Two Thousand Miles Apart, Same residents not working to understand what would ways to increase interactions between education both existing and new housing. However, that
same cost of a loan also translates to higher costs for
and business, both parties need to be engaged.
bring them into the workforce, it is clear no
one has a solution. But there are opportunities
contractors. Like the workforce, housing is unlikely
Workforce Issues for collaboration and focus that can begin to • Identify the jobs for the future. In our assessments, to get better. Communities need to be aggressive
we looked at the sectors driving the current economic
in finding ways to develop an array of housing that
address the needs.
economy as well as those areas where the is affordable for the workforce. (As a side note,
Because of the very different cultures and respective communities wanted to see more for the rural midwestern community the workforce
economies, the specifics to address the workforce growth. From there both the largest number assessment was done in tandem with a housing
“No one wants to work.” “I can find people beaches and ocean views that make tourism its of agriculture and manufacturing. Very different needs for each of the two regions are also and potentially fastest growing occupations study to improve the crossover information.)
to work, but they don’t have the right (or any) top economic base. Yet past hurricanes and the and yet the overarching issues are the same, as different. However, as with the issues there are could be identified. That kind of information
skills.” “Where did all the workforce go?” pandemic have shown the need to expand its base they are for many places in the U.S. some key areas, we recommended these helps those communities understand both Employers need to be fully engaged in education,
regions strongly consider. the basic and specific skills that are needed to training, and housing issues in their communities.
As the U.S. economy has rebounded from the support and grow local employers. This is not Likewise, educators need stronger connections
COVID-19 pandemic, labor availability issues THE TOP ISSUES IMPACTING THESE LOCATIONS ARE: • Focus the greatest effort on K-12 education. to say “everything” needs to be oriented around with the business community to make sure their
continue to plague businesses small and large. Yes, the workforce is a critical issue today. those sectors. However, when basic and specific students see the value of a good education for
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the • An aging workforce. Even with the Generation Z both locations are concerned about basic reading and Recognize it’s not going to get better. The best skillsets are known and understood, education, their futures. Economic development organizations
country went above pre-pandemic employment group, age 10-24, being the largest generation next math skills along with critical thinking. Remote learning due bet for the long-term is to ensure that students employers and local supporting organizations need to be the catalyst to bring employers,
to the Baby Boomers, there are still not enough of them to the pandemic has had an impact on K-12 education
levels in August and yet millions of jobs remain to fill the void left as Boomers retire. Consequently, the and employers are worried how that will affect core graduate from high school (first issue) and can do a better job of focusing limited resources. educators, and other organizations together to
unfilled. This has had an impact on everything from workforce gaps will accelerate over the next eight to education long term. graduate with the solid educational skills that collaborate if they are not already.
manufacturing and construction to health care and ten years. will allow them to go to a job or go for more • Address the housing issues. These communities
financial services. The quest to retain and attract • A critical need for attainable workforce housing. training/education and be successful. In and their employers want to attract people to live The big issues for the workforce are the same in
workforce has resulted in higher wages as well • Attracting more workers. With the existing local The shift of some remote working and retired addition, K-12 education needs to place more there to help fill the workforce needs. But the effort many communities and regions. But the solutions
as companies looking for other benefits they can demographics noted above, employers are trying to populations to both areas put pressure on an already emphasis on soft skills. Employers in both areas is wasted if there is not the attainable workforce take getting information and data, generating
provide. The impact is widespread. And a strong attract more employees from outside. And they are limited housing stock, pushing up pricing. The rising talked about how their older employees learned housing available in relative proximity to the jobs. collaboration, and understanding that it’s about
example of that is two workforce assessments I pushing economic developers and local government cost of materials and increasing labor costs likewise these soft skills “at home”. For many reasons Schools can’t hire new teachers, manufacturers building for a stronger future.
increased the price of new housing. The net result is a
to push harder on overall talent attraction.
have been doing over the past several months. lack of mid-level workforce housing that employers say that doesn’t seem to happen today, so it has
• A need for better basic soft skills. Whether it’s has hindered their ability to attract new talent. fallen on educators to meet that need.
The assessments are just wrapping up as of this on-site or remote work, employers point out that the ROB O’BRIAN,
writing and haven’t been released by the respective soft skills are a critical issue, even for their existing • The need to engage those not working. A net However, this is not education’s responsibility CEcD O’Brian & Associates.
organizations, so for confidentiality I won’t disclose workforce. Written and spoken communications, result of the pandemic is a loss of childcare in areas alone. Students do better when they understand Rob O’Brian served as President of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce
locations. However, they couldn’t be more different. working in teams, interpersonal skills and even where it was already limited. For these places, it is still the “why” of education. It’s important to learn for twenty-three years. Rob founded O’Brian and Associates in early 2018
One is a rural, midwestern county with an economy arriving on time for work are concerns employers a concern especially for lower -income workers where math, but when it can be related to a real-world to advise and assist communities on economic and workforce development.
paying for care was already difficult. Employers also
driven by agriculture and manufacturing. It also have about their current and future workforce. noted their efforts to find other underutilized workforce job students get more focused. It’s the same [email protected]
has a unique history that gives it some tourism • Improving basic education skills. Employers in pools such as those with disabilities. with soft and interpersonal skills. Educators can www.obrianassociates.com
draw. The other is a region that has long sandy set expectations for timely work and being in
the classroom, but employers connect the dots 417.438.0100

63. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

A collaboration of tightly knit communities MOKAN has always been a top location for & Development Solution division works
across seven counties of Southwest Missouri, growing companies thanks to its extremely with businesses to customize and develop
Northeast Oklahoma and Southeast Kansas, business-friendly environment. Missouri targeted credit and non-credit training, along
the MOKAN Partnership promotes business is ranked 2nd in the U.S. for the lowest with a host of technical and trade schools,
attraction, growth, and retention efforts, corporate income tax rate, and it ranks 5th which are training up the next generation of
as well as workforce, small business and in the nation for the lowest cost of doing leaders. From welding to robotics to surgical
entrepreneurial development. The MOKAN business. The MOKAN Partnership region tech, Crowder College works closely with
Partnership region has a population of over is also affordable for residents – Joplin, employers to ensure critical training needs
300,000 with a labor force participation rate Missouri, ranks 8th in the nation for lowest are continually assessed and delivered.
of just over 60%. Within an hour’s drive, the cost of living. Housing in particular ranks
population swells to 600,000. As of 2021, 35% lower than the national average. The MOKAN Region is an educational center
the region’s population increased by 2.2%, that boasts 2 state universities, 6 community
with another increase of 3.1% projected over In addition to keeping costs low for companies colleges, and several technical trade schools.
the next 3 years. operating in the region, MOKAN is taking a The new Kansas City University -Joplin campus
proactive approach to supporting businesses is the first medical and dental school to open
Nestled at the crossroads of Interstates 44 and through its workforce development programs. in Missouri in nearly 50 years, featuring
49, the MOKAN Region is a transportation In fact, the region was ranked 1st in the state-of-the-art facilities and technology to
hub that crosses the entire nation. The nation for on-the-job training by the U.S. educate the next generation of doctors and
region’s location in the center of the U.S. Department of Labor, and 3rd in the U.S. for bio scientists.
attracts companies searching for a strategic most completed apprenticeships. Our ACT
location in the middle of the U.S. with solid Certified Work Ready workforce is skilled up Educational facilities in the MOKAN region
infrastructure. With the rise of e-commerce, across industries to meet employer needs. are closely aligned with area employers to
companies have leveraged the state’s position create talent pipelines for in-demand career
in the core of the Midwest to help them get Missouri One Start is the state’s primary paths. Exposition events such as AME
products to customers quickly. Two-day program that provides a tailored workforce (Advanced Manufacturing Expo), Build My
shipping is uniquely possible to nearly every strategy to address the needs of companies Future and Healthcare Expo connect students
U.S. location from here. in the state. Crowder College’s Training with area employers and expose them to

64. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

career paths across industries. Innovative industry. Major national and international a sign of families moving here. A diverse
high school programs such as CAPS (Center brands are located here, creating products industrial base paves the way for strong
for Advanced Professional Studies) immerse for the world. We are 8th in Best Places to commercial growth, which provides jobs for
students into a professional culture, solving Work in US Manufacturing. the area. It’s the place in the center of the
real-world programs using industry-standard U.S. where growth, innovation and success
tools and are mentored by actual employers. Along with manufacturing, the MOKAN can be found. Growing with MOKAN would
region’s top industries include healthcare, be a great decision for businesses and
In addition to implementing programs to ramp transportation and retail. People not only individuals alike.
up and train available talent, the MOKAN need dynamic places to live, shop, play and
Region is committed to identifying available go to school, but also diverse employment
real estate and preparing it for companies. opportunities. This includes a good mix of
Essentially, the risk has been reduced as job types with livable wages that provide
much as possible so businesses can dig in multiple pathways of upward mobility through
with confidence. 16 infrastructure-ready opportunity and choice.
industrial parks have been vetted and are
ready for companies to begin construction. With low costs and an unwavering commitment
to workforce development, the MOKAN
The MOKAN Partnership region is an Partnership continues its push forward,
established manufacturing hub with a diverse striving to make the quality of life a special Amy Kauffman, CWDP
portfolio of food/beverage manufacturing characteristic for the region. New home
as well as manufacturing for the defense construction is happening all over the area, Director of Workforce and
Business Expansion

N
417-313-2663
M
320 East Fourth Street
Joplin, MO 64801
E
[email protected]
d
www.mokanpartnership.com

65. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Dick as a "civic entrepreneur" in economic Ventures, Inc. is to advise and counsel support its Plant and Life Science BioBelt
development, can you tell us about some private sector and public sector clients on sectors. As St. Louis’ newest Innovation
of the communities you have successfully economic, entrepreneurial, community and District, Downtown North is at the intersection
served in the last several decades? resource development issues. of GEOINT, FinTech, and entrepreneurship
I’ve been pleased to serve as a "civic For example, in the past several years, my at large.
entrepreneur” in advancing economic and firm has been actively engaged in the efforts
entrepreneurial development initiatives in to advance St. Louis’ aspirations to become a As a premier technology hub — Downtown
Atlanta, Denver and St. Louis. Most recently, Global Geospatial Intelligence Hub, including North is committed to empower and enrich
I served as CEO of the Greater Denver assisting founders in the creation of St. Louis’ lives, and to solve problems.
Chamber of Commerce and Greater Denver newest Innovation District — the Downtown
Corporation, and as the CEO of the St. Louis North Insight District is an “Urban Insight While the new District is focusing on both
Regional Chamber & Growth Association. District at the Heart of America". commercial and defense Geospatial
Intelligence development —its unique
Since 2012, you have served as CEO of Briefly outline the huge significance location, just several blocks away from the
St Louis-based Community Development of this Innovation District in St. Louis $1.75-billion, 1 million square foot, 3100-job
Ventures Inc. What is the mission and announced earlier this year? new western HQ of the National Geospatial
objective of this organisation? St. Louis has distinguished itself in the past Agency (NGA) and 1,500-acre NorthSide
As a private sector advisory firm, the mission 20 years in developing two internationally Regeneration Mixed-Use Development
and focus of Community Development successful Innovation Districts to surrounding NGA’s new campus — provides

“The Cube” high-tech conference center highlights the unclassified multi-tenant space at the
Globe Building, with 75,000 sq. ft. per floor.

66. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

General Dynamics is new to the St. Louis skyline and is the latest GEOINT tenant to locate at The
Globe Building in the Downtown North District.

the District with one-of-a-kind economic and is the global leader in digital heart surgery ultimate mash up of anchor institutions,
entrepreneurial development synergies and technology); and with now 200 start up companies, start-ups, and ecosystem building
locational opportunities with NGA. entrepreneurial firms and NGA's Moonshot intermediaries in hyper-local geographies that
Labs locating at the District’s T-Rex incubator. leverage density, proximity, and accessibility.
Who created the new Innovation District?
How many employees will this district Also, of great importance to both large and As the longstanding real estate mantra goes,
be home to? small Geospatial Intelligence firms, the largest “Location, Location, Location.” With the
The Founders of the new Downtown North GEOINT multi-tenant secure infrastructure Downtown North District located just several
Innovation District are: The Starwood Group space of its kind outside of the Washington, blocks from a federal agency which outsources
(co-led by Square CoFounder Jim McKelvey D.C. area is now has located in the District. contracts in the billions of dollars — as U.S.
and John Berglund); The Globe Building Senator Roy Blunt has noted about the unique
(owned and adaptively renovated by attorney For more background on this evolving District, GEOINT attributes of The Globe Building
Steve Stone); and T-Rex Entrepreneurial including a video on the vision for it, go to: as an anchor in the District, "We’re getting
Development Center, (led by Dr. Patricia https://lnkd.in/eMJHmd4H to see the real economic opportunity, not
Hagen). only that comes in building out a building
How does this new innovation precinct like this, but the jobs that will be here on a
There are already some 6,000 employees in join Geospatial Intelligence and other permanent basis.”
the Downtown North District. The Starwood technology enterprises in Downtown
Group has recently renovated the former St. Louis? It has been suggested that the Geospatial
226,000 square foot HQ of the St. Louis The new District spans a broad geography Intelligence sector today is what the biotech
Post-Dispatch newspaper into the new home of downtown St. Louis, running both north/ sector was in early 2000 from an economic
for 1,400 employees of Square and CashApp; south to and from the new NGA/West HQ development perspective — and St. Louis
the adaptive high-tech renovation of the several blocks to the north, and east/west, in is uniquely poised to be a “go to” location
720,000 square foot ArtDeco Globe Building, multiple blocks along Washington Avenue, for national and international companies,
which has already become the “St. Louis St. Louis’ traditional “Tech Corridor.” investors, and site selectors.
GEOINT location of choice” and St. Louis Moreover, from an overall entrepreneurial
home for a number of major GEOINT firms The potential for net new jobs — from both development perspective, writing in
(such as MAXAR, T-Kartor from Sweden, Ball infill development in historic structures, as well fivethirtyeight.com about St. Louis’ efforts
Aerospace, Geospatial World Media, and, major full block mixed-use development on a to build its entrepreneurial momentum as a
most recently, General Dynamics — as well number of full blocks ready for redevelopment base for future growth, former Wall Street
as earlier this year becoming the location of — is immense in the tens of thousands. Journal reporter Ben Casselman’s article
global med tech leader Stereotaxis for their carried the headline, “St. Louis Is The New
corporate HQ, Advance Manufacturing The Global Institute on Innovation Districts Startup Frontier.”
and Global Distribution Center (Stereotaxis has noted “Innovation districts are the

67. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Dick, how much is the global Geospatial related innovation districts and surrounding Dick, the St. Louis and the Downtown
industry projected to grow to by 2030? neighborhoods; and, North Geospatial Intelligence Hub efforts
What key factors are driving the current have enjoyed the ongoing strategic
growth in the market now? ࣿ Brand and position St. Louis as a national guidance and support from both U.S
& international GEOINT thought leader. Senator Roy Blunt and from Keith
According to the recently published Global
Industry Outlook Report in 2022, the St. Louis is focusing on geospatial in four Masback, the former CEO of the U.S.
Geospatial Intelligence industry is projected industry sectors: national security; digital/ Geospatial Intelligence Foundation
to grow to $1.44-Trillion by 2030. The precision agriculture; logistics; and healthcare (USGIF), now a private leader in the field.
magnitude of this growth of the defense delivery. Could you describe the significance of
and commercial Geospatial Intelligence these two civic champions to St. Louis
sector underscores the immense potential What is the major Geospatial Intelligence Geospatial Intelligence efforts?
for St. Louis and the Downtown North Insight annual events which connect over As we have learned from our region’s 20
District to become a center piece of St. Louis’ Geospatial Intelligence leaders year effort to advance St. Louis as the BioBelt
emergence as a Global GEOINT Hub. The throughout the world? Where are these Center of Plant and Life Sciences — it takes
Report noted, “the geospatial industry is events held? civic champions for a community to advance
the next ‘big opportunity’ for technology The U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation its economic and entrepreneurial development
companies, both as an ‘advancing market in (USGIF) holds the annual GEOINT Symposium, aspirations.
itself’ and ‘augmenting business processes’ of which is attended by some 4,000 Geospatial
mainstream IT, Engineering, and Autonomous Intelligence in the aerospace, defense and In the case of St. Louis’ nascent efforts to
industries.” intel arenas, along with military leaders. become a Global Geospatial Intelligence
St. Louis has identified five overall business The location changes each year. The 2021 Hub, there has been no stronger public
and civic initiatives in the GeoFutures Plan Symposium was held in St. Louis, the 2022 sector champion than Missouri’s Senior
to fulfill its potential to become a global in Colorado, and the next Symposium will Senator Roy Blunt.
geospatial hub: be again held in St. Louis in May 2023.
Senator Blunt’s longstanding leadership
ࣿ Scale up talent/workforce development;
The other major international event positions in the Senate have included
convening Geospatial Intelligence leaders being ranking Member of the Senate
ࣿ Raise innovation capacity;
is the GEOBUIZ Summit, held annually in Rules Committee, Member of the Senate
ࣿ Accelerate entrepreneurship; Monterey, California. The next Summit will Appropriations; Commerce, Science and
be held in March 2023. St. Louis and the Transportation Committee; and, quite relevant
ࣿ Support the advancement of public/ Downtown North District were featured as a to St. Louis’ GEOINT future — the Senate
private partnership development in GEOINT- case study at the 2022 GEOBUIZ Summit. Select Committee on Intelligence.

NGA’s Moonshot Labs" at T-Rex is an unclassified innovation hub and collider space to meet,
create, collaborate, and innovate in the Downtown North District.

68. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

St. Louis Downtown North District Co-Founders join U.S. Senator Roy Blunt at a recent groundbreaking
at The Globe Building.

From the successful multi-year process in which Keith now leads PLUM RUN, LLC, as a internationally, and we are most fortunate
St. Louis had to win the NGA Site Selection leading international authority on geospatial having him guiding us.
competition for the new $1.75-billion federal intelligence in its multiple forms. Based on
HQ, to landing the NGA Moonshot Lab in his 30 years of experience Keith continues to
St. Louis, to pro-actively working for the school us on the nuances and future trends
development of recently created specialized of both defense and commercial GEOINT
national security facilities in the District (the — including segments of the industry such
largest such multi-tenant facility of its kind as remote sensing (from phones to drones to
in the nation, outside of the Washington airplanes to stratospheric balloons to space)
area), to the multiple occasions to advocate + geospatial location data & information of
for St. Louis and Missouri’s GEOINT future all types and layers (from the ocean floor,
— Senator Roy Blunt has been a champion to land, to air, to aerospace) + analytics +
of champions . visualization.
Richard C.D. Fleming
Perhaps no one in Congress better appreciates In his articles and speeches, Keith is helping CEO, COMMUNITY
the significance and critical importance of to define the future of Geospatial Intelligence,
having the scale and nature of the infrastructure noting that it’s disrupting every vertical in the DEVELOPMENT VENTURES, INC.
and ecosystem now underway in Downtown economy and is at the heart of many tech- m
North. Given his long-standing effort to make enabled revolutions in myriad industries.
these critical assets to St. Louis as to St. Louis’ Some of these areas/applications include: CIC@4220 Duncan Avenue
Geospatial Intelligence future — we were autonomous vehicles; smart cities (including CORTEX Innovation Community
delighted to have hosted Senator Blunt at digital twins); architecture, engineering, and
The Globe Building for a news conference construction (AEC); logistics; retail; insurance St. Louis, MO 63110
recently to take a bit of a “civic victory lap." & reinsurance; critical infrastructure planning, n
protection, restoration; ride-sharing; delivery; (314) 660-1100
From the private sector leadership perspective,
e
Keith Masback has been, and continues to and real estate. [email protected]
be, a unique “civic mentor” to the District, St.
Louis and its Global GEOINT Hub aspirations. Without question, Keith Masback is one
After serving as CEO of the U.S. Geospatial of the most respected authorities on
Intelligence Foundation for over a decade, Geospatial Intelligence, both nationally and

69. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

states based on their most recent performance 30 of them either relocated or expanded
in three key measures of economic vitality into Southern Nevada. Meanwhile, the Reno
– personal income growth, employment area saw 59 companies relocated there
growth and population growth. during the past two years. That includes 29
headquarters and 5,600 new jobs.
State Policy Reports’ ranking is another key
indicator that Nevada is not only a great place Nevada’s recent success didn’t happen by
to live but a great place to be in business. accident. When the pandemic hit, GOED
Across all agencies, we are laser focused immediately worked to develop a Plan for
on creating opportunities for Nevadans. Recovery and Resilience. The goal is good
jobs today, better jobs tomorrow. GOED is
Just 19 states exceed the national economic working with stakeholders to pursue visionary
performance in this update. Nevada beat out policies that set Nevada apart, continuing the
Texas and Florida and is by far the leading state’s drive for resilience and diversification.
state in employment change, beating out Where in 2018 the state’s largest employers
Governor Steve Sisolak Hawaii and California. Nevada’s employment were spread across four industry sectors,
increased 9.7 percent over the past year they are now spread across eight.
compared to the national average of 4.7
In Nevada, we prioritize our businesses percent. Nevada’s personal income grew Gaming and tourism will always be important
with a very low-regulation environment, a by 10.2 percent, slightly behind Florida and industries in Nevada, but the state’s historic
streamlined licensing and approval processes Texas at 10.3 percent – and our population sectors need protection from downturns in
and a favorable tax environment for business growth is at 1 percent compared to the the economy. That’s why Nevada is focused
and industry. A state with the workforce national average of 0.12 percent. Idaho on attracting high-skill industries.
development, education and infrastructure in led the nation at 2.9 percent.
place to support our economic development. The advantages in Nevada are endless.
Since January of 2019, the Nevada Governor’s The Silver State borders California, the fifth
Office of Economic Development (GOED) largest economy in the world, with close
Nevada captivates visitors and residents with has approved abatements for 86 companies. access to the ports of Los Angeles, Long
all the adventures and entertainment Las Within five years these companies will add Beach, and Oakland.
Vegas has to offer as the capital of tourism, 13,227 jobs and make $2.4 billion in capital
conventions, meetings, sports and special investment in Nevada. Over the next ten During the past three years, Nevada has
events, but it also offers natural beauty and years, these companies will generate more seen major investments from an exciting
year-round recreational opportunities like than $1.2 billion in new net tax revenues. autonomous Delivery Company named
skiing, golfing, hiking, fishing and swimming Nuro while also seeing major investments
at Lake Tahoe. Because Nevada’s hospitality and leisure from more familiar names such as Google
job sectors were hit particularly hard by the and Amazon.
Since the last quarter of 2021, State Policy COVID pandemic, the state has put a focus
Reports has ranked Nevada’s economy as the on Southern Nevada. Of the 42 companies We’re not going to stop here. We hope to
best in the country. State Policy Report ranks that were approved for abatements in 2021, speak to you soon!

70. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

SIMPLE, NOT EASY LISTEN: Focus on others in order to better understand their points of view. BE INCLUSIVE: Welcome all groups of citizens working for the greater

good of the community.
How do you listen? Do you hear? Are you an engaged listener? If you want to
Communication is so simple, yet it is so complicated. The less personal When you use e-mail, you lose two key elements of communication. gain the respect of others, be an engaged listener. How do you do that? You I passionately believe differences make us better. I want to surround myself
with people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, cultures, and beliefs.
it is, it becomes less effective and more open to misinterpretation. That’s Albert Mehrabian did a study in the late 60’s. He proposed that in effective can think of questions you want to ask, restate their thoughts, or make quality The more differing viewpoints, the stronger the result will be.
a challenge in many workplaces. That’s a challenge among leaders. communication, 7% is based on content, 38% on tonality, and 55% on eye contact. One leader I worked with continually looked over the shoulder of
Even though the pendulum is swinging back to more in-person, the non-verbal communication. the person they were talking to so she could find a “better person.” BE AGREEABLE: Look for opportunities to agree and don’t contradict just
remote workforce is much larger than in 2019. That has and will impact to do so.
communication even more. It impacts talent retention and attraction. E-mail does not have the luxury of tonality or non-verbals, so much is lost. DON’T GOSSIP: And don’t accept when others choose to do so.
That’s why I decided not to send them. The same is true for texting and We all have something we can agree on, whether professionally or
I use a lot of Patrick Lencioni’s work when I speak, train, coach, teach, social media (let’s not argue about emojis). There is some improvement I love the expression that says, those who gossip with you, will gossip about personally. There are some great exercises I utilize to take businesses and
and write. In his book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, it is clear that with the phone and a bit more on a virtual video call (even though people you. If somebody says, “know what I heard,” I often tune them out or at organizations through to come to that agreeable point.
communication is the overarching skill needed for success. Lencioni’s five sometimes have their camera’s off-ugh). least ask for their source to back it up.
dysfunctions are absence of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, TAKE RESPONSIBILITY: Don’t shift responsibility and blame others or share
avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results. To build on the first Hopefully, I’ve proven my point that communication, while simple, is definitely SHOW RESPECT: Honor other people and their opinions, especially in the disagreement publicly.
block of trust and the other four, effective communication is necessary. not easy. What are you intentionally doing at your business or in your community midst of a disagreement.
to enhance communication. Before you get to addressing Lencioni’s challenge,
I imagine most, if not all, of the readers of FDI International have communication must improve. How can you build trust without it? Communication isn’t about convincing somebody they are wrong. It is A great sports coach after a game will take the blame for a loss and in
victory give the credit to others. The same should be true of any leader.
experienced an issue with communication when dealing with a town, about respect of their ideas. If you listen respectfully, you never know what
village, city, county, state, region, or country. I wish we could sit around I came across Speak Your Peace; The Civility Project, which is taken from you might learn. When others talk you can also learn thoughts that may These Speak Your Peace tenets are worthy of further conversation and
a table and share some of those experiences. Maybe we can. Within the P. M. Forni’s book Choosing Civility. The Duluth-Superior WI Community help you better express your idea. discussion. They are a step to achieving your goals. Leaders need to embrace
Wisconsin county I live, I’ve seen all sorts of interesting interactions. They Foundation used this tool effectively. I now use it whenever and wherever these and create opportunities to improve and enhance communication.
have ranged from competition to cooperation to collaboration. I can, whether I am speaking or doing a workshop. It’s simplicity and APOLOGIZE: Be sincere and repair damaged relationships.
common-sense approach makes it seem almost juvenile. As you read it,
In one situation, I had to present to a governmental unit (leaving out though, how often do you and others use it? They are in no particular We can all think of co-workers, family and/or friends who deserve an There is too much at stake with talent retention and attraction to not create
a workplace with meaningful engagement and engaged communication.
the names to protect the innocent) regarding annual funding for our order. I would suggest building them into a regular discussion. I’ve been apology. With the holidays coming up, maybe you can make that visit or
Chamber’s economic development work. After presenting our case, I had amazed what people will share in those workshops and how they can call to apologize. The same holds true in communities. The apology is a
to go behind the “Great Wall” where none may speak. The people on the embrace effective communication. lost art that carries so much in a relationship. TODD KUCKKAHN
board began talking about the annual proposal. Several members made
comments that were simply inaccurate and misinformed. I couldn’t respond PAY ATTENTION: Be aware and attend to the world and the people GIVE CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM: When disagreeing, stick to the issues Todd Kuckkahn is a leadership and communication
thought leader. He has worked with businesses from
from behind the “wall.” Extremely frustrating. Effective communication was around you. and don’t make a personal attack. fifty to ten thousand employees. He is a certified
clearly lacking. Have you been there before? coach, speaker, DISC consultant, and DEI trainer.
I’m not going on a rant about our heads being buried in our smart This might be my favorite of the nine tenets. Through effective
When I went back to my office, I began typing out four different e-mails, one for technology, but I could. As my wife is driving us back from a birthday communication comes trust and through trust comes constructive criticism. [email protected]
each of the people that misspoke. I spent a while on the effort and then decided party, I am aware of the beautiful fall changing of the colors in Wisconsin. We need to be willing to accept and give constructive criticism. Constructive 715-498-4979
my emotions were too high. Thankfully, I decided to wait to send them. When More importantly, I want to attend to others by shifting my focus to them. conflict is the only way for a business or community to move forward. We toddkuckkahn.com
I looked at them the next day, I made a few edits and then decided to wait Personally, I want to add more value to others than I receive through my still must tie in the other aspects of Speak Your Peace.
another day. After seven days, I deleted the e-mails. The risk far outweighed the faith. Give first. Pay attention to others’ needs. Everybody is passionate
value. The e-mails would lose a lot in the communication. about their beliefs.

72. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

The agenda wrapped up with a detailed case
study of the German-based Wieland Group’s
new state-of-the-art recycling center currently under
construction in Shelbyville, Kentucky. A discussion
panel was comprised of Matt Bedingfield and
Phil Moody of Wieland; Jake Weir of Norfolk
Southern; Ray Leathers of Shelby County (Ky.)
Industrial and Development Foundation; former
Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development staff
member Brittany Cox; and Jack Bragg of Shelby
Energy. They walked the audience through the
rollercoaster ride of landing a German based
FDI project in Kentucky.

The event exited the theater for an after-party
under the stars open to the public, with a rock-
n-roll band playing through the evening for the
perfect wrap up this version of the ‘Palooza.

Our CoopToberfest event provided participants
with a taste of Germany and a worldview
of economic development, along with the action
So with a vison to create our unique version of New York-based Newmark corporate site selector plan for our state. Our Kentucky’s Touchstone
Oktoberfest—what we call “CoopToberfest”-- we Alan Reeves talked about the changing landscape Energy Cooperatives are laser-focused on bringing
A GERMAN TAKE ON KENTUCKY
A GERMAN TAKE ON KENTUCKY put the wheels in motion to try to create an event of economic development for megaprojects, economic development opportunities from around
that would take on a personality all of its own but
especially focusing on electric vehicles and battery
the world to Kentucky. Plans are currently underway
also offer an opportunity for collaboration and projects, including some coming to Kentucky. for trade missions to Europe as well as attendance
discussions amongst the attendees. We wanted in upcoming events, including Hannover Messe as
the event to have as many characteristics of a
Lunch was a hardy authentic Bavarian fest
Planning an event is a lot like economic on a closed street in front of the theater. With shutdown. The event was so well-received Planning an event is a lot like economic on a closed street in front of the theater. With shutdown. The event was so well-received
well as the Paris Airshow.
a unique high-energy soundtrack pounding,
development. The challenge is always trying to
development. The challenge is always trying to a unique high-energy soundtrack pounding, that the International Economic Development true Oktoberfest but with a Kentucky twang. Think in the beautiful outdoor fall weather while the that the International Economic Development
determine how to stand out from the crowd.
the attendees are escorted into the venue
determine how to stand out from the crowd. the attendees are escorted into the venue Council named CoopAPaLooza as a Gold Award oompah band colliding with bluegrass music oompah band featured German festival music. Council named CoopAPaLooza as a Gold Award
The world is taking notice of our efforts as we have
or brats deep-fried like chicken. We debated all
Most events, especially conferences focused anticipating something out of the ordinary is Winner as well as the “event of the year” in Most events, especially conferences focused The perfect day with clear skies and early Winner as well as the “event of the year” in
anticipating something out of the ordinary is
seen increased activity and project announcements.
fall temperatures was the absolute key to the
solely on economic development, tend to look
solely on economic development, tend to look about to happen. economic development. facets of the event until we came to a consensus. about to happen. economic development.
Our efforts were recognized by the German
We would hold our CoopToberfest once again
and feel the same way. No offense to the events and feel the same way. No offense to the events successful day of collaboration and let lead to American Chamber of Commerce – AHK with
With no particular date or month for when the
or planners putting them together, but the safe, With no particular date or month for when the Throughout the pandemic and the subsequent at the Grand Theatre but this time starting with great lunchtime discussions. Throughout the pandemic and the subsequent
or planners putting them together, but the safe,
the awarding of their Excellence in Economic
an oompah band and performers out front. We
cautious way is the usual formula for setting up ‘PaLooza is hosted, the idea is somewhat driven reopening, our Kentucky’s Touchstone cautious way is the usual formula for setting up ‘PaLooza is hosted, the idea is somewhat driven reopening, our Kentucky’s Touchstone
Development Award to our Kentucky’s Touchstone
by the fact we do not hold the event unless we
would have top-notch presenters from around the
the agenda for these types of events. The typical by the fact we do not hold the event unless we Energy Cooperatives often pondered when the agenda for these types of events. The typical The afternoon session began with Site Selectors Energy Cooperatives often pondered when
Energy Cooperatives at their recent German
conference based in a sterile hotel ballroom
Guild member and Global Location Strategies
conference based in a sterile hotel ballroom have something important to share that affects to gather again for an event. After months of globe paired with speakers from close to home. have something important to share that affects to gather again for an event. After months of
American Awards Gala in Chicago.
features knowledgeable subject matter experts all of our electric cooperatives territories making consideration, the decision was made to once features knowledgeable subject matter experts corporate site selector and former Kentucky consideration, the decision was made to once
all of our electric cooperatives territories making
droning on about their topic with very little up over 46% of geography of Kentucky. The again host the event in Frankfort, Kentucky, but The event kicked off with our economic development up over 46% of geography of Kentucky. The again host the event in Frankfort, Kentucky, but
Cabinet for Economic Development staffer
droning on about their topic with very little
We are excited about the opportunities exploring
feedback or interaction from a crowd more first CoopAPaLooza was held in February only during autumn in hopes of having a significant team welcoming the crowd and giving a vision of Tess Fay discussing recent projects landing during autumn in hopes of having a significant
feedback or interaction from a crowd more
first CoopAPaLooza was held in February only
Kentucky in the metals, electric vehicles; aerospace
weeks before the pandemic shutdown in 2020,
focused on their cellphones and return flights weeks before the pandemic shutdown in 2020, portion of the event outside. focused on their cellphones and return flights in the Southeastern United States and what portion of the event outside.
how the day would progress. Next, newly appointed
and advanced manufacturing sectors and we are
than extracting information from the event.
and it featured a rock concert theme with high-
than extracting information from the event. and it featured a rock concert theme with high- Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development communities need to be doing to be prepared working closely with our local communities to
energy presenters, including rural economic If you have never been to Kentucky, the first two Secretary Jeff Noel laid out his vision and game for opportunities. If you have never been to Kentucky, the first two
energy presenters, including rural economic
ensure they are ready for the challenges ahead.
Like most things our Kentucky’s Touchstone
Like most things our Kentucky’s Touchstone development expert Lorie Vincent and site- weeks of October weather is the stuff of legends. plan for economic development efforts across development expert Lorie Vincent and site- weeks of October weather is the stuff of legends.
Energy Cooperatives do in the world of economic
Energy Cooperatives do in the world of economic selection guru Didi Caldwell, as well as stars Low humidity, clear skies and the spectacular Kentucky in a collaborative fashion. Kentucky is selection guru Didi Caldwell, as well as stars Low humidity, clear skies and the spectacular
development, we try to differentiate ourselves from
development, we try to differentiate ourselves from Josh Nowell and Jim Rasberry from the United colors of changing leaves set the stage for at a pivotal point and, with the right cooperation; Josh Nowell and Jim Rasberry from the United colors of changing leaves set the stage for
BRAD THOMAS
opportunities can be realized across the state
everyone else in the game and blaze a path most States-based HGTV show HomeTown. The my favorite time of year in our Bluegrass everyone else in the game and blaze a path most States-based HGTV show HomeTown. The my favorite time of year in our Bluegrass
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
will never see or have the courage to take. It is from
will never see or have the courage to take. It is from concept was to tell the story of rural economic State. With thoroughbred horses running through foreign direct investments. concept was to tell the story of rural economic State. With thoroughbred horses running
Kentucky’s Touchstone Energy Cooperatives
that mindset, CoopAPaLooza was born. development and opportunities from a world, during the seasonal meet at nearby Keeneland that mindset, CoopAPaLooza was born. development and opportunities from a world, during the seasonal meet at nearby Keeneland
state and local perspective. The target audience and Churchill Downs, as well as the smell of German-based Transatlantic Business and state and local perspective. The target audience and Churchill Downs, as well as the smell of
4775 Lexington Road 40391
CoopAPaLooza is framed as the “Economic was comprised of local economic developers bourbon mash hanging in the air on foggy Investment Council’s President and CEO Matthias was comprised of local economic developers bourbon mash hanging in the air on foggy
CoopAPaLooza is framed as the “Economic
Winchester, KY 40392-0707
Beier focused on the similarities of Kentucky and
Development Event Like No Other,” and it plays and local elected officials, as well as Kentucky mornings, Kentucky is truly a heavenly place to Development Event Like No Other,” and it plays and local elected officials, as well as Kentucky mornings, Kentucky is truly a heavenly place to
Tel. 859 595 6251
out exactly like that. The event’s home is the
out exactly like that. The event’s home is the Cabinet for Economic Development staff be in the fall. The only other place in the world Germany. He helped the audience close the gap Cabinet for Economic Development staff be in the fall. The only other place in the world
historic Grand Theatre in downtown Frankfort,
historic Grand Theatre in downtown Frankfort, including the Cabinet’s Secretary. The event that can touch Kentucky in the beauty of fall is in terms of how European companies look at including the Cabinet’s Secretary. The event that can touch Kentucky in the beauty of fall is
[email protected]
opportunities in the United States. He provided
Kentucky. It was built in 1911 and sits directly was deemed a brilliant success by the over the Southern States of Germany, most notably Kentucky. It was built in 1911 and sits directly was deemed a brilliant success by the over the Southern States of Germany, most notably
www.DataIsPower.org
across the street from the Kentucky Cabinet for 200 participants and it became somewhat Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. When most across the street from the Kentucky Cabinet for 200 participants and it became somewhat Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. When most
advice on telling each community’s unique story
Economic Development. CoopAPaLooza starts legendary as it was the last real gathering of people think of Southern Germany in the fall, in a way that Europeans can appreciate and legendary as it was the last real gathering of people think of Southern Germany in the fall,
Economic Development. CoopAPaLooza starts
understand.
as anything other than ordinary with clowns, economic development professionals and they imagine the changing leaves, beautiful as anything other than ordinary with clowns, economic development professionals and they imagine the changing leaves, beautiful
circus performers and live music performing elected officials before the great pandemic vistas, and, especially, Oktoberfest in Munich. circus performers and live music performing elected officials before the great pandemic vistas, and, especially, Oktoberfest in Munich.
74. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

The agenda wrapped up with a detailed case
study of the German-based Wieland Group’s
new state-of-the-art recycling center currently under
construction in Shelbyville, Kentucky. A discussion
panel was comprised of Matt Bedingfield and
Phil Moody of Wieland; Jake Weir of Norfolk
Southern; Ray Leathers of Shelby County (Ky.)
Industrial and Development Foundation; former
Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development staff
member Brittany Cox; and Jack Bragg of Shelby
Energy. They walked the audience through the
rollercoaster ride of landing a German based
FDI project in Kentucky.

The event exited the theater for an after-party
under the stars open to the public, with a rock-
n-roll band playing through the evening for the
perfect wrap up this version of the ‘Palooza.

Our CoopToberfest event provided participants
with a taste of Germany and a worldview
of economic development, along with the action
So with a vison to create our unique version of New York-based Newmark corporate site selector plan for our state. Our Kentucky’s Touchstone
Oktoberfest—what we call “CoopToberfest”-- we Alan Reeves talked about the changing landscape Energy Cooperatives are laser-focused on bringing
A GERMAN TAKE ON KENTUCKY put the wheels in motion to try to create an event of economic development for megaprojects, economic development opportunities from around
A GERMAN TAKE ON KENTUCKY
especially focusing on electric vehicles and battery
that would take on a personality all of its own but
the world to Kentucky. Plans are currently underway
also offer an opportunity for collaboration and projects, including some coming to Kentucky. for trade missions to Europe as well as attendance
discussions amongst the attendees. We wanted in upcoming events, including Hannover Messe as
the event to have as many characteristics of a
Planning an event is a lot like economic on a closed street in front of the theater. With shutdown. The event was so well-received Planning an event is a lot like economic Lunch was a hardy authentic Bavarian fest shutdown. The event was so well-received
on a closed street in front of the theater. With
well as the Paris Airshow.
true Oktoberfest but with a Kentucky twang. Think
development. The challenge is always trying to a unique high-energy soundtrack pounding, that the International Economic Development development. The challenge is always trying to a unique high-energy soundtrack pounding, that the International Economic Development
in the beautiful outdoor fall weather while the
oompah band colliding with bluegrass music
the attendees are escorted into the venue
determine how to stand out from the crowd. the attendees are escorted into the venue Council named CoopAPaLooza as a Gold Award determine how to stand out from the crowd. oompah band featured German festival music. Council named CoopAPaLooza as a Gold Award
The world is taking notice of our efforts as we have
or brats deep-fried like chicken. We debated all
Most events, especially conferences focused anticipating something out of the ordinary is Winner as well as the “event of the year” in Most events, especially conferences focused anticipating something out of the ordinary is Winner as well as the “event of the year” in
The perfect day with clear skies and early
seen increased activity and project announcements.
about to happen.
solely on economic development, tend to look
solely on economic development, tend to look about to happen. economic development. facets of the event until we came to a consensus. fall temperatures was the absolute key to the economic development.
Our efforts were recognized by the German
and feel the same way. No offense to the events We would hold our CoopToberfest once again successful day of collaboration and let lead to American Chamber of Commerce – AHK with
and feel the same way. No offense to the events
or planners putting them together, but the safe, With no particular date or month for when the Throughout the pandemic and the subsequent at the Grand Theatre but this time starting with With no particular date or month for when the Throughout the pandemic and the subsequent
great lunchtime discussions.
or planners putting them together, but the safe,
the awarding of their Excellence in Economic
an oompah band and performers out front. We
cautious way is the usual formula for setting up ‘PaLooza is hosted, the idea is somewhat driven reopening, our Kentucky’s Touchstone cautious way is the usual formula for setting up ‘PaLooza is hosted, the idea is somewhat driven reopening, our Kentucky’s Touchstone
Development Award to our Kentucky’s Touchstone
would have top-notch presenters from around the
The afternoon session began with Site Selectors
the agenda for these types of events. The typical by the fact we do not hold the event unless we Energy Cooperatives often pondered when the agenda for these types of events. The typical by the fact we do not hold the event unless we Energy Cooperatives often pondered when
Energy Cooperatives at their recent German
conference based in a sterile hotel ballroom have something important to share that affects to gather again for an event. After months of conference based in a sterile hotel ballroom Guild member and Global Location Strategies to gather again for an event. After months of
have something important to share that affects
globe paired with speakers from close to home.
American Awards Gala in Chicago.
corporate site selector and former Kentucky
features knowledgeable subject matter experts all of our electric cooperatives territories making consideration, the decision was made to once features knowledgeable subject matter experts all of our electric cooperatives territories making consideration, the decision was made to once
droning on about their topic with very little up over 46% of geography of Kentucky. The again host the event in Frankfort, Kentucky, but The event kicked off with our economic development up over 46% of geography of Kentucky. The again host the event in Frankfort, Kentucky, but
Cabinet for Economic Development staffer
droning on about their topic with very little
We are excited about the opportunities exploring
first CoopAPaLooza was held in February only
feedback or interaction from a crowd more
feedback or interaction from a crowd more first CoopAPaLooza was held in February only during autumn in hopes of having a significant team welcoming the crowd and giving a vision of Tess Fay discussing recent projects landing during autumn in hopes of having a significant
Kentucky in the metals, electric vehicles; aerospace
focused on their cellphones and return flights weeks before the pandemic shutdown in 2020, portion of the event outside. how the day would progress. Next, newly appointed in the Southeastern United States and what portion of the event outside.
weeks before the pandemic shutdown in 2020,
focused on their cellphones and return flights
and advanced manufacturing sectors and we are
than extracting information from the event.
than extracting information from the event. and it featured a rock concert theme with high- Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development communities need to be doing to be prepared working closely with our local communities to
and it featured a rock concert theme with high-
energy presenters, including rural economic If you have never been to Kentucky, the first two Secretary Jeff Noel laid out his vision and game energy presenters, including rural economic If you have never been to Kentucky, the first two
for opportunities.
ensure they are ready for the challenges ahead.
Like most things our Kentucky’s Touchstone
Like most things our Kentucky’s Touchstone development expert Lorie Vincent and site- weeks of October weather is the stuff of legends. plan for economic development efforts across development expert Lorie Vincent and site- weeks of October weather is the stuff of legends.
Energy Cooperatives do in the world of economic
Energy Cooperatives do in the world of economic selection guru Didi Caldwell, as well as stars Low humidity, clear skies and the spectacular Kentucky in a collaborative fashion. Kentucky is selection guru Didi Caldwell, as well as stars Low humidity, clear skies and the spectacular
development, we try to differentiate ourselves from
development, we try to differentiate ourselves from Josh Nowell and Jim Rasberry from the United colors of changing leaves set the stage for at a pivotal point and, with the right cooperation; Josh Nowell and Jim Rasberry from the United colors of changing leaves set the stage for
BRAD THOMAS
everyone else in the game and blaze a path most
everyone else in the game and blaze a path most States-based HGTV show HomeTown. The my favorite time of year in our Bluegrass opportunities can be realized across the state States-based HGTV show HomeTown. The my favorite time of year in our Bluegrass
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
will never see or have the courage to take. It is from concept was to tell the story of rural economic State. With thoroughbred horses running through foreign direct investments. concept was to tell the story of rural economic State. With thoroughbred horses running
will never see or have the courage to take. It is from
Kentucky’s Touchstone Energy Cooperatives
that mindset, CoopAPaLooza was born. development and opportunities from a world, during the seasonal meet at nearby Keeneland that mindset, CoopAPaLooza was born. development and opportunities from a world, during the seasonal meet at nearby Keeneland
state and local perspective. The target audience and Churchill Downs, as well as the smell of German-based Transatlantic Business and state and local perspective. The target audience and Churchill Downs, as well as the smell of
4775 Lexington Road 40391
CoopAPaLooza is framed as the “Economic was comprised of local economic developers bourbon mash hanging in the air on foggy Investment Council’s President and CEO Matthias was comprised of local economic developers bourbon mash hanging in the air on foggy
CoopAPaLooza is framed as the “Economic
Winchester, KY 40392-0707
Development Event Like No Other,” and it plays and local elected officials, as well as Kentucky mornings, Kentucky is truly a heavenly place to Development Event Like No Other,” and it plays and local elected officials, as well as Kentucky mornings, Kentucky is truly a heavenly place to
Beier focused on the similarities of Kentucky and
Tel. 859 595 6251
out exactly like that. The event’s home is the
out exactly like that. The event’s home is the Cabinet for Economic Development staff be in the fall. The only other place in the world Germany. He helped the audience close the gap Cabinet for Economic Development staff be in the fall. The only other place in the world
historic Grand Theatre in downtown Frankfort, including the Cabinet’s Secretary. The event that can touch Kentucky in the beauty of fall is historic Grand Theatre in downtown Frankfort, including the Cabinet’s Secretary. The event that can touch Kentucky in the beauty of fall is
in terms of how European companies look at
[email protected]
opportunities in the United States. He provided
Kentucky. It was built in 1911 and sits directly was deemed a brilliant success by the over the Southern States of Germany, most notably Kentucky. It was built in 1911 and sits directly was deemed a brilliant success by the over the Southern States of Germany, most notably
www.DataIsPower.org
across the street from the Kentucky Cabinet for 200 participants and it became somewhat Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. When most across the street from the Kentucky Cabinet for 200 participants and it became somewhat Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. When most
advice on telling each community’s unique story
Economic Development. CoopAPaLooza starts legendary as it was the last real gathering of people think of Southern Germany in the fall, Economic Development. CoopAPaLooza starts legendary as it was the last real gathering of people think of Southern Germany in the fall,
in a way that Europeans can appreciate and
understand.
as anything other than ordinary with clowns, economic development professionals and they imagine the changing leaves, beautiful as anything other than ordinary with clowns, economic development professionals and they imagine the changing leaves, beautiful
circus performers and live music performing elected officials before the great pandemic vistas, and, especially, Oktoberfest in Munich. circus performers and live music performing elected officials before the great pandemic vistas, and, especially, Oktoberfest in Munich.
75. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania borders Delaware, Maryland, West construction. Some additional industries include,
Virginia, Ohio, New York, New Jersey as well as chemical manufacturing, coal mining and food
Lake Erie and the Canadian province of Ontario. products.
It is also known as the keystone state, is a state
spanning the Mid-Atlantic, North-eastern and Another major industry that is worth mentioning, is
Appalachian regions of the United States. the agricultural industry. Some of the top products
in this industry are dairy products, cattle and calves,
There are over 5,200 foreign owned firms that have greenhouse and nursery products, mushrooms and
business operations within the state of Pennsylvania. chicken eggs. Over half of mushrooms farmed in
A few of the countries that are leading in foreign the U.S. come from Pennsylvania. With a ranking of
investment are the United Kingdom, Germany, eighth in total milk production nationally, there are
France, Switzerland, Canada and Japan. over 10 billion pounds of milk produced annually.
Governor TOM WOLF
The infrastructure in Pennsylvania offers movement Comcast, AmerisourceBergen, Aramark, Dick’s
of goods via port to rail or truck. The state is becoming Sporting Goods, Air Products and Chemicals, PPG
one of the most energy efficient production regions. reduction of cost of U.S. operations. This program Industries, Crown Holdings, Rite Aid, PNC Financial
There is an integrated network of 120,000 miles of also allows delayed or reduced duty payments on Services, Lincoln national and Wawa are a few of
interstate highways, 64 modern freight railroads foreign merchandise. the largest companies in Pennsylvania. One of the
and 6 international airports. The state provides largest employers in the state is the University of
access to three major ports that provide deep Workforce development offers financial and Pittsburgh medical centre. It operates 40 academic,
water, inland and Great Lakes as well as access for technical assistance for employers. To help with community and specialty hospitals, 700 doctor’s
international importing and exporting. business development, the state offers locally based offices and outpatient sites.
technical assistance in grants. Also available is the
Pennsylvania has three major ports. These include, Manufacturing PA Industrial Resource Centers There are several benefits such as educational
the ports of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Erie. There which are state funded. The purpose of the opportunities, highly ranked universities, a low
are over 67 million tons of goods moved through Resource canters is to introduce small and medium- cost of living, beautiful landscapes, the arts, water
its ports and a ranking of 12th in the country sized manufacturers to new business processes. sports, recreational activities and low crime rates.
for volume. The three ports have a combined This makes Pennsylvania a wonderful location for
economic benefit of nearly $50 billion. Some of the major industries in Pennsylvania include improved quality of life. With so many resources for
Also offered is a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) program broadcast and telecommunications, administrative foreign businesses, tax programs, grants and loans
which helps improve competitive placement by the and support services, healthcare services and it’s a state that offers many benefits to businesses.

76. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

It is no secret that for employers to be vehicle for participants to better communicate, industry advisory groups. Soon we will
successful in locating, sustaining, and growing build trust, and effectively collaborate to launch our final two industry advisory groups
a business, they must have access to a prepare the future workforce. This is the focused on Human Services and Arts &
skilled workforce. That requires a pool of most comprehensive cross-sector network Communication careers. The ECCPA is open
potential talent, viable education and training of its kind, and its progress has been so to any employer interested in taking part.
institutions, and a workforce development noteworthy that it is often highlighted as a
support system that identifies and addresses best-practice model across Pennsylvania Each ECCPA member plays an important
employers’ needs. Communities that have and beyond. role in its success. For example:
these three things, and know how to effectively
tap into them, are in a much better position The ECCPA includes local school districts, Employers and educators work
to support business location, retention, and three high school-level career and technical closely together to create and deploy age-
growth. centers, six colleges and universities, our appropriate career exploration experiences
workforce development board, various and informational resources.
Erie County, Pennsylvania, has these critical business groups, several additional workforce
assets in place, and has taken an innovative and education partners, and dozens of The workforce development board
approach to developing and preparing employers serving on our Engineering & provides data, expertise and special project
a pipeline of workers to meet businesses Industrial Technology, Science & Health, and funding that informs our work and helps us
needs. For us, that means a heavy focus Business, Finance & Information Technology deliver high quality experiences.
on the K-12 population to complement the
adult-based efforts and programming led
by our workforce development board and
others. By reaching into the school districts,
we are linking business with education
in new, impactful ways earlier to expose
students to local companies and jobs and
give employers opportunities to help shape
their career paths.
This work is shepherded through Erie
Together’s Career Pathways Alliance (ECCPA),
a coalition of education, employer and
workforce partners developing a countywide
career pathways system and executing age-
appropriate career-connected learning
experiences for youth. The ECCPA provides the

78. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Colleges and universities actively

participate and respond to needs identified
by employers and school districts for
programming that will help lead to family-
sustaining jobs.

Through the ECCPA, we create resources to
help students and families better understand
career opportunities in our region. We
foster new programmatic relationships with
colleges and universities to address specific
employer needs. And we develop and deploy
diverse, high quality, age-appropriate career
exploration experiences using our Career Street
web-based platform which has facilitated
more than 46,000 student experiences since
its launch in 2014.
Mary Bula Jake Rouch
The ECCPA is a win-win-win for employers, Executive Director Vice President Erie Regional
educators, and the local talent pipeline Erie Together Chamber & Growth Partnership
alike. Examples of our work include our

“Educator in the Workplace” efforts, where Mercyhurst University was founded in » Top Majors: Business & Entrepreneurial
we expose educators to employers to better 1926. The U.S. News & World Report Thinking, Information Technology,
connect what they are teaching to careers. consistently ranks its campus in the top tier of Manufacturing
Influenced by recent industry advisory group Best Regional Universities-North and as a “Best
discussions, one university developed a Value School.” In addition to 86 undergraduate Lake Erie College of Osteopathic
“Quality Assurance Dual Enrollment Certificate majors and 13 graduate programs, Mercyhurst Medicine is the nation’s largest medical
Program” to address a pressing need among is home to internationally respected programs college and the only Academic Health Center
manufacturing employers. And through in Intelligence Studies, Applied Forensic in the osteopathic profession. Founded in
our “Multi-District Industry Club,” students Sciences, and the award-winning Autism Erie, PA in 1992 the college offers innovate
participate in college and employer tours, Initiative at Mercyhurst. education in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy
job shadows, and internships, further refining and dental medicine at four campuses in
their career interests and gaining a better » Top Majors: Intelligence Studies, Cyber three states.
understanding of employer expectations. Security, Nursing
» Top Majors: Doctor of Osteopathic
These examples are just the tip of the iceberg Gannon University, with campuses in Erie, Medicine, Doctor of Pharmacy, Doctor
of our activity and impact. With the input Pennsylvania and Ruskin, Florida prides itself of Dental Medicine, Masters of Medical
and cooperation of our partners we are in preparing its students to be global citizens Science
opening doors, creating resources, and through programs grounded in the liberal arts
developing new opportunities for students and sciences and professional specializations.
and for employers to address their critical The university is experiencing its largest
workforce needs. enrollment in its history, eclipsing 4,700
students and continues to see its international
A Strong Higher Education System reach grow, with 20% international student
Looks to the Future body

At the heart of Erie’s labor market are four » Top Majors: Information Technology,
regional universities – each with their own Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
specializations, a strong workforce partner Business Analytics Tina M. Mengine
in our vibrant community college, as well Chief Executive Officer
as the largest medical school in the country, PennWest University combines the
Lake Erie Osteopathic College of Medicine. resources, programs, professors and expertise Erie County Redevelopment
of three top institutions to create a new way Authority
Penn State University, The Behrend to educate. Built on a belief that the best way
College is the largest of Penn State’s to learn is through action and immersion, M
academic colleges, offering more than 45 PennWest’s programs are built around lab 1314 Griswold Plaza - Erie,
PA 16501
undergraduate and graduate degrees in work, field research, externships and work N
engineering, business, the humanities, the experiences. 814.480.0337 x 101 (o)
sciences, and nursing. The college is known 814.434.9532 (m)
E
for an Open Lab model of learning and » Top Majors : Digital Animation, Art/ [email protected]
discovery that brings students together with Fine Arts, Criminal Justice/Law, Education D
external partners to give students real-world ecrda.net
experience while developing product and Erie County Community College offers
service solutions for partners: associate degrees and manufacturing
certifications in a variety of fields and emerging
» Top Majors: Mechanical Engineering, jobs. EC3 is focused on building partnerships
Plastics Engineering Technology, Computer and meeting the needs of business and
Science industry.

79. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

because they did not have enough employees to run the trains. For this have offered increased wages but have balked at some of the requests
WORKING ON THE RAILROAD reason, the employees who had survived the cuts were called on to take for more attendance flexibility. This railroad predicament that could soon
result in a strike should be a lesson for many employers during this time
on the more work resulting in overworked and disgruntled employees. In
addition, the railroads were feeling the pressure to hire new employees
by their regulator and their customers. However, people were not lining when hiring is so difficult.
up to work for the railroads or for many other types of employers after First, cutting your workforce in such large numbers and in such an
Over the last several months, one of the biggest stories in the US news has The question is how have we arrived at the precipice of disaster to our the pandemic had slowed down and the country began to reopen. This unceremonious manner all with the goal of cutting expenses is going
been the possibility of a national rail strike. The labor law that applies to supply chain by having a possible rail strike looming over the country. Each new employment dynamic meant these remaining rail employees were still to create uneasiness among the remaining employees and probably
railroads and their workers is called the Railway Labor Act and is set up in side obviously has their own view on how the parties have reached this being asked to work long hours and be on call basically whenever the railroads to cause some to look elsewhere for opportunities that are more stable
such a manner to avoid work stoppages. As a result, the last national rail point. However, the facts seem to suggest that the large employment cuts needed them to provide service. These employees already were very unhappy and involve less time away from family. Second, overworking employees,
strike occurred 30 years ago. before the pandemic by the railroads and then again during the downturn with the massive job cuts that had occurred before the pandemic, so with the especially in a job where employees risk their lives for their employers, is
in demand during the pandemic are the major reasons for this dilemma. onerous working conditions, their anger seemed to be growing. going to result in more departures. Now, the railroads have a chance to
During the collective bargaining process, parties can be forced to go Around 2017, the major US railroads began to make a revolutionary show these unhappy workers a solution during this bargaining process. If
through lengthy negotiations, mediation, cooling off periods, and change to the way they run their networks. These railroads began to Rail jobs are good paying jobs that provide excellent benefits. These are the the railroads do not solve this problem, they may face a devastating strike
arbitration before being allowed to exercise self-help. That is what has implement a new operating model called Precision Scheduled Railroading. type of blue-collar jobs that have disappeared from the US job front over that will upset the entire US economy. Or they may avoid the strike but
transpired over the last several years between the railroads and the unions. The large Canadian railroads were already using this model at the time the last several decades. There was a time when working on the railroad have an overworked and disgruntled workforce that may be looking for
While the parties now have reached agreements for the most part, the and had successfully improved the economics of running a railroad. As a was viewed almost romantically as the ideal place to work involving travel new jobs soon. This situation should open the eyes of employers, or they
union memberships must ratify the deal which has not happened with all result, the US railroads with an eye towards Wall Street began to change and good money. That dynamic has disappeared over time as people may find themselves in a similar situation.
twelve unions involved in these negotiations. Two of the largest unions are their systems as well. One of the principles of this model is railroads can have wanted to stay home more and be near their families. This change
still in the voting process. operate more efficiently by using less employees and assets while moving has made hiring even more difficult for the railroads. Plus, it takes about DANIEL ELLIOTT
their traffic. However, most observers believe the railroads went too far in six months to train a new employee to operate these massive trains that
The country and the railroads cannot afford to have this vital transportation this instance. can be over a mile long. Working on the railroad can be dangerous and PRINCIPAL | GKG LAW, P.C.
service stopped. Railroads and the US supply chain have been in utter complicated, and workers need to be properly trained to work successfully 1055 Thomas Jefferson Street NW
turmoil because of the crash and surges in demand during the pandemic. This crowning principle led to job cuts across the major railroads in the US in this environment. This inability to bring on new employees quickly or at Suite 500, Washington, DC 20007
Rail service has not recovered from those tumultuous times. Consequently, from 2017 until 2021. By the time everything was said and done, the four all when needed put the railroads in an unenviable position and left the [email protected]
the railroads are having massive service issues that have brought the largest railroads in the US had cut their workforces by about 30 percent. employees exhausted and frustrated.
attention of their regulator and the Biden Administration onto an industry As demand surged during the pandemic, the railroads were woefully www.gkglaw.com
that is usually not subject to such scrutiny. unprepared to take on the amount of business coming through their doors The employees now are seeking better attendance policies in negotiations 202.342.5248
from the railroads because of their difficult work conditions. The railroads

80. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

THE QUEST FOR REAL TALENT? The markets that are winning are active in with Singapore’s FDI stock28 increasing from skilled labor, the greater will be the levels of

demonstrating and promoting technical skills
to win foreign investment. Skills and inward $900 billion in 2012 to stand at $1.91 trillion inward investment.
in 2019 the 7th highest in the world, yet with a
investment are now integral to each other. population of just 5.5 million. Advancing a location’s capability frontier – i.e., the
limits of what it can produce should be a key goal
When we consider FDI recruitment and the While the cost of labor is an important and often country with elevated levels of unemployment, Whether you’re interested in attracting more IRELAND of economic development; the gap between the
correlation with our workforce development, the most decisive factor when it comes to foreign and therefore an available workforce, does not investment to your region or developing world skills a location currently possesses and those it
what are we really telling ourselves? direct investment the quality of that labor is an necessarily attract a high number of new projects class skills, the message is clear - skills and Between 1989 and 2019, The Republic of Ireland’s wants to acquire can be most effectively bridged
increasingly important consideration for investors. solely on that basis. inward investment need to be part of the same GDP per capita increased from a little over $14,000 using the expertise of the world’s leading
This subject matter consumes our day, dreams conversation so double down. to more than $80,000, here’s why. companies - foreign direct investors.
of landing a big inward project, creating 100s if Of course, there are sectoral variations when Unemployment rates do not indicate a required
not 1000s of jobs. it comes to the quality of labor, the importance skill set within that country’s workforce, and a Some great examples of those winning in this Yes, the tax rate is good in Ireland however Mary Daniels is Global Trade Director with:
of this FDI driver has been rising in recent years high number of people being out of work is often demonstration and taking a proactive approach the historic ties with the USA (which supplies Tradebright-International Trade development company
What do investors want to see from Workforce across all locations. seen as a sign of an unhealthy economy. Both all have a common thread, they are partnering around ¾ of its FDI) and its status as an English- focused on the acceleration of both government and
development and the demonstration of pipeline factors are considered likely to deter multinational effectively with institutions responsible for skills policy speaking country inside the EU are central. private sector in the Global markets.
of talent? “Technological advances have prompted enterprises from selecting a country to host its and targeting specific investors because of their
companies to streamline the more manual parts operations. expected impact on skills. There are notable policies However, the critical component to success has
It is no secret that the availability of labor is a of their operations,” says Investment Monitor or initiatives to successfully assess its skills offer and been the hugely successful IPA, IDA Ireland, who
crucial factor for foreign investors, but the chief economist Glenn Barklie. “However, the LET’S EXAMINE THAT A LITTLE MORE: identify actual and future investors’ skills needs. view skills as its highest priority. In its view ‘the
education and skill sets found within that labor demand for scientific, professional and technical According to UNCTAD, the US attracted the competition lies in skills’, with multinationals
force are also decisive factors now arguably skills has never been as high.” highest number (2,015) of greenfield FDI SINGAPORE looking for talent and the next generation of talent.
critical factors when it boils down to real site- projects in 2019 out 141 countries surveyed IDA Ireland considers this to be particularly true in
selection decisions. This is born out in the data collected from the by the WEF. The US also scored highly in WEF’s Aggressive pursuit of foreign direct investment its major growth sectors such as pharma, MedTech,
UN Conference on Trade and Development’s skill set of graduates and ease of finding skilled has played a central role in replacing low skill, financial services and believes that with the pace of
The World Bank’s 2019-20 Global Investment (UNCTAD) World Investment Report 2020 and employees metrics, with 71 out 100 and 72 out low wage activities that have moved offshore, technological change increasing, the need for a MARY DANIELS
Competitiveness Report highlights that over 85 the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global of 100, respectively. with higher value-add manufacturing, services skills system to adjust quickly is crucial. DIRECTOR OF TRADE, TRADEBRIGHT
per cent of investors rate talent and skills as Competitiveness Report 2019, and then analyzed and ultimately the knowledge economy. EDB
critically important or important. Similarly, EY’s by Investment Monitor, shows that countries with Switzerland was the country to score the highest in Singapore, the country’s investment promotion IDA Ireland maps the supply of skills at both a EU: 353-766701269
2021 Attractiveness Survey for Europe highlights higher-skilled and better educated workforces the WEF’s ranking for skill set of graduates. agency, has overseen a dramatic increase in regional, sector and activity level and makes this USA:1800-601-7814
the importance of digital skills in investment tend to attract more greenfield FDI projects. However, the country’s significantly smaller market inward investment. In 1992, Singapore recorded freely available to prospective investors, enabling UK:+443300270134
decisions: 92 per cent of international investors size when compared with that of the US meant net FDI inflows of $2.2 billion. The equivalent them to take advantage of industry clusters.
say that the availability of a workforce with However, the same correlation cannot be that it ranked lower when compared against the figure for 2019 was $120 billion, a more than [email protected]
technology skills is a key factor that determines found between availability of labor and levels number of greenfield FDI projects in 2019, while 50-fold increase. It continues to be a stand- Simply put, the more confidence investors have
where they invest. of greenfield FDI inflows. In other words, a still attracting an impressive total of 115. www.tradebright.com
out performer in attracting inward investment, that they will be able to access and / or train

82. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

STATE OF TEXAS

Texas is the 2nd largest state in the United States, shown improvement such as, Trade, Transportation
known as the Lone Star State because of its and Utilities, Information, Financial Activities,
former status as an independent republic. The Professional and Business Services, Education and
Governor of Texas is Greg Abbott and he resides Health Services.
in the city of Austin. Austin is the capital of Texas. In the Lone Star State, start-up companies can
When transporting by land, there are 313,220 benefit from a huge tax break. If the revenue
miles of public roads and 10,500 miles of of your start-up company does not exceed
freight rail. This ranks Texas #1 by mileage on a a specific threshold, then you will be able to
national level. Sea travel is a breeze with its 16 have zero business tax. Another advantage is
seaports, including 11 deep water deep ports. the Texas Enterprise Fund. This is a grant that
The port of Houston is the largest port and it has is awarded to businesses that promise job
led the nation in foreign trade by continuing to growth and capital investment. There are also
lead the nation in exports. Governor Abbott is Governor Gregg abbott several additional grants managed by the Texas
known for making transportation funding a Workforce Commission.
priority. The state dedicates a portion of state
sales tax to improving transportation. well as software. There is a franchise tax exemption Some of the target industries for business in
for manufacturers, sellers or installers of solar the state include, advanced manufacturing,
Land in Texas typically cost about 40% less than energy devices. aerospace, aviation and defence, biotechnology,
the national average. This creates less cost to information technology, petroleum refining and
build a business. There is also a lower cost of Education of the workforce is a major strength corporate services. Many Fortune 500 companies
living because electricity is typically cheaper as by having more than 300 trade schools. There are making Texas their home. Such companies
Texas has its own power grid. Within the United are also more than 130 technical programs in include Amazon, Apple, AT&T, Dell, American
States, Texas is the only state with a standalone place for further education. The Texas Reskilling Airlines, Pizza Hut, Southwest Airlines, Space
electricity grid. It is also the largest energy producing & Upskilling through Education (TRUE) is a X, Sysco, Tesla, Toyota, Waste Management,
state in the nation. By leading the nation in wind Grant Program designed to prepare students ExxonMobil, Whole Foods and a host of other
powered energy, it has produced almost 1/3 of all for in-demand careers. Focus on transitioning major brands.
of the energy produced in the US. from community colleges into the workforce
with business partners and businesses within the Major corporations also value the well-being of their
A skilled workforce, stable business climate and community. employees by offering a wonderful environment.
excellent transportation infrastructure are reasons With its warm climate and geographic diversity of
why there is a rapid job growth. Texas has been In May of 2022, Texas added 74,200 new jobs. mountains, desert, beaches and prairies. Known
ranked one of the best states for business due There were three major industries that showed for cultural, sporting events, nightlife, recreational
to having no corporate or personal income an increase with exceeding levels in Construction, activities and culinary excellence. Texas is the
tax. There are several sales tax exemptions for Manufacturing as well as Leisure and Hospitality. perfect location for any business looking for the
manufacturing machinery and equipment as There were several other industries that have best quality of life for their employees.

84. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

The City of Dickinson Texas, a bedroom governments, two international airports, and The MSA is home to over 40 higher education
community, is located on Interstate 45 the largest exporting market in the nation via institutions and many school districts that
between Houston and Galveston within the ports and rail in the MSA, allows Dickinson cater to foreign and local students. Locally,
nine-county “Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar to attract highly skilled quality workforce the College of the Mainland has partnered
Land” Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). and residents that desire a more pleasant with Dickinson Independent School District
Our 10 square-mile community of 22,000 lifestyle. Dickinson is one of the communities to provide dual credit courses and a
residents is quietly nestled in a forested that contributes to the 5000-plus companies unique Collegiate High School program
area along Dickinson Bayou, which leads and 1700-plus businesses that are foreign that allows students to complete their high
to the Gulf of Mexico. Unlike neighboring owned, which includes 16 banks from nine school education and their college associate
cities, Dickinson is not focused on heavy nations in the MSA. degree concurrently. After graduation, high
industry. Dickinson is strategically targeting
high-end developments, such as regional
and national headquarters. CEO’s and
their staff prefer a more relaxed quality of
life away from the stresses associated with
dense or built-out communities, but with
easy access to some of the highest educated
and diverse workforce in the world within
a 30-minute drive. Many of our citizens
enjoy direct access to Dickinson Bayou
and its tributaries for fishing, boating and
kayaking. In many nearby communities their
highly educated workforce tends to reside in
heavily populated or industrialized locations,
limiting their ability to provide a quality-of-life
that many families and businesses desire.
Currently, 7.1 million residents, 15 foreign

86. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

that offers participants an opportunity to
earn as they learn, while employers’ benefit
from a partial wage reimbursement during
the training period. On-the-Job Training
focuses on jobs that involve new technologies,
production, service, or additional skills for
full-time positions (30 hours per week is
considered full-time) paying at least $12.00
per hour or more. The advantage to the
employer includes customized training their
way, at their workplace. Employers receive a
50% reimbursement of the new employee's
wage, up to $21.00 per hour, while they are
training (up to 400 hours and based upon
the targeted occupation).
Opening a new business can be costly or
school students can immediately enter the To attract businesses to Dickinson, workforce risky. The City of Dickinson does not want to
workforce which benefits employers with requires infrastructure and resources for see a business fail. The goal of supporting
a talented workforce. A robust education both employees and companies. That’s why local business will remain strong for decades;
system makes Texas, Houston MSA, and Dickinson has been working with Comcast and the city has a vested interest in the success of
Dickinson specifically a natural choice for Frontier Communications to make Dickinson each company. Dickinson has an additional
executives to live, locate their business, and into a Fiber City by installing new fiberoptic advantage of providing grants or loans
raise a family. lines and services to the homes and businesses as the Dickinson Economic Development
throughout the community, allowing speeds Corporation, a 4B Sale Tax entity, allowing
Dickinson’s many natural advantages enhance up to 1 Gigabit of internet speed. This enables Dickinson to provide local grants for those
our quality of life in the community. This has medical uses, trade desks, call centers, and who qualify as well as grants offered by
paid dividends as we attract new professionals headquarters of various-sized industries to the State of Texas, Galveston County, and
to our area and have been successful in be competitive in today’s environment. City of Dickinson. Incentives can help offset
recruiting high-end developments with retail, risks. Dickinson and the MSA are attracting
office, and recreational components. We make sure our workforce stays competitive, new residents daily from around the world
talented, and skilled. Texas provides businesses making us a extremely diverse workforce
A talented and diverse workforce requires quality workforce training through the Skilled for companies seeking a first-class, quality
quality housing. Dickinson is a smaller Development Fund and Workforce Solutions. workforce.
community within the MSA and is in a growth
boom with six housing subdivisions under Businesses that require workforce training I encourage you to invest in Dickinson because
construction and one in the planning stages. work with the College of the Mainland, our Dickinson means Business!
Most of our developments are along the local junior college, to structure the training
Dickinson Bayou and one is just off the needs of their business via the Texas Skilled
bayou for sale or rent. Development Fund. This is a state grant that
is available to train employees through the
Many of the residents work locally or commute state’s community colleges. The fund will
to other locations nearby such as NASA, the assist employers by financing the design and
Port of Houston, chemical refineries and implementation of customized training for
manufacturers, inland rail parks, medical new and incumbent equipment. The funds
facilities, financial institutions, and other awarded to the community college are not
businesses. Over 3.1 million of the 7.1 million a cash grant to the company.
MSA residents are employed with health, Courtland Holman
education, business-professional services, An alternative for training workforce is through Executive Director
and goods producing sectors. Workforce Solutions On-the-Job Training, Dickinson Economic
Development Corporation

M
1621 FM 517 Road East, Suite A
Dickinson, TX 77539
N
281-337-6105
832-205-1294
E
[email protected]
d
www.ci.dickinson.tx.us

87. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Eric how large is the TexAmericas Center to offer our tenants custom real estate, What key factors make Texarkana the
mixed use industrial park? logistics and financial solutions. With the perfect region for a business to expand
operating capabilities of a municipality, and relocate?
TexAmericas Center is responsible for
managing the redevelopment of over 12,000 TexAmericas Center controls our own platting, TexAmericas Center is positioned as the
acres and 3.5 million square feet of former US zoning, permitting and occupancy processes; lowest-cost area in one of the most cost-
Army property in centrally located Northeast TexAmericas Center eliminates much of the effective and highest-ranked states to do
Texas. Additionally, TexAmericas Center red tape inherent in traditional real estate business in the great State of Texas. We
manages over 30 miles of privately owned processes. This gives businesses a much offer a lucrative package of cost savings and
roads and 30-miles of owned railway as shorter timeline to become operational. As operational advantages, all with unique value-
well as rolling stock (operating equipment). an economic development organization, we added services to separate us from the pack
TexAmericas Center and our Partners in act as a company’s ombudsman throughout and propel a company to greater success,
Development have invested over $40 million the site selection process. As an industrial faster. Businesses located at TexAmericas
in remediation, on-site infrastructure and real estate company, we offer custom real Center experience the advantages the State
other upgrades; we are committed to continue estate solutions of leases, build-to-suit (lease, of Texas’ welcoming business environment
investing in the property for the benefit of purchase and option to purchase) and build- (tax policies and regulatory environment) and
our tenants, future tenants, and community. out-to-suit services, but TexAmericas Center growing labor market as well as the rewards
also offers unique value added services at our local level. The Texarkana region has
What is the mission of the TexAmericas including: third party logistics, transload, rail the most economical cost structure in the
Center? car storage and spotting services, incentive State of Texas. This is due to strong, stable
management, financing packages, soft- leadership on both state and local levels that
TexAmericas Center’s mission is to 1) bring landing/concierge services, and a 72-hour is committed to operating efficiently to affect
quality jobs to the greater Texarkana area turnaround on most permit approvals. the bottom line of locally owned companies.
and 2) diversify the tax base through the
redevelopment of the former Department
of Defense property we now own. The
TexAmericas Center Board of Directors, 15
individuals appointed by the incorporated
communities in Bowie County, Texas and
the county itself, has mandated that staff
create 12,000 jobs on the property … at
least one for each acre we own.

Briefly describe how the TexAmericas
Center functions as a unique hybrid of
an economic development organisation
and an industrial real estate development
and management company.
TexAmericas Center is a State of Texas-
sanctioned quasi-governmental entity or
special purpose district called a Local
Redevelopment Authority. This makes us a
unique hybrid of an economic development
organization, municipality and an industrial
real estate development and management
company. These characteristics allow us

88. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Our tenants enjoy tax assessments, real Packaging years of experience in municipal, business,
estate costs, and utility and labor rates that ࣿ and economic development management
are among the lowest in the State of Texas. ࣿ Cartons and service delivery. We always stay
Before incentives, taxes and operating costs ࣿ Direct to Customer focused on what you or your client needs.
at TexAmericas Center are already 20- Dimensional Lumber If you need to interact with the regional
40% below other major Texas locations. ࣿ economic development organization, utilities
Since TexAmericas Center is both a Local ࣿ Furniture Manufacturing representatives, local elected officials, the
Redevelopment Authority and located in an ࣿ Prefab/Modular/Mini Homes and chamber, contractors, the community college,
economically distressed geographic area, Buildings either of our two universities, or whoever, then
our tenants have access to a valuable basket Metals & supply chain that is who we will bring to the table. If you
of incentives that lowers costs even more. need data to rule us in or rule us out, we
ࣿ Forming have resource providers that will help us pull
Eric what are the Top 4 industry sectors ࣿ Fabrication whatever information is needed together so
in the Texarkana region? you can make your decision fast and move
ࣿ Bending/Cutting/Assembling on to the next question or next community.
The top four industry sectors or Clusters for Metal Working
our market are: ࣿ We know that sometimes commercial real
estate agents want to know if they will be
What industries do you see rapidly compensated. We address that by having a
Defense & Supply Chain growing? non-exclusive listing agreement that we can
ࣿ Tactical Wheeled Vehicles Jobs in the Texarkana metro market have enter into on a project-by-project basis, or
a specific duration. We have worked out
ࣿ Weapons Systems grown by 7% 2017 - 2021, with several options with developers allowing them to
subsectors more than doubling their workforce
ࣿ Demilitarization control 25-acres with the ability to option
over the past three years. The industries we
On & Off-Road Vehicle Manufacturing are seeing the greatest job gains in include: 15 more if the first deal comes to pass. Our
& Supply Chain solutions are custom tailored to the client’s
needs…we just need you to let us know
ࣿ Heavy Vehicles ࣿ Food & Beverage what you need.
ࣿ Pharmaceuticals & Supplements
ࣿ Rail Car ࣿ Logistics including warehousing,
ࣿ Specialty Vehicles distribution & trucking How does Texarkana's central location
ࣿ Trailers ࣿ Medical & Educational Services and strategic interconnection assets make
What property solutions are in place the community a global transportation
ࣿ Tire Manufacturing to ensure all project needs are met? and business hub?
ࣿ Aluminum Focus on your relationship with buyers, Texarkana is centrally located in the United
investors, leasing agents and sellers
Forrest Products & Supply Chain States and is therefore well-positioned to
across all industries.
ࣿ Pulp give you access to the greatest domestic
The six-members of TexAmericas Centers and international market share, at the lowest
ࣿ Paper executive team has an accumulated 110 logistical costs, while still operating in the

89. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

top ranked State of Texas. This is because ● 10 of the fastest growing MSA’s individuals - 22.9% of which drive
Texarkana is the lowest aggregate mile in the USA 50+ miles to work.
location in Texas to the geographic and How will the TexAmericas Center create
population centers of the US. This gives Growth potential a thriving economic development engine
tenants at TexAmericas Center a 500-mile Most communities that have three interstates, that will power the future of the Texarkana
reach of 53.8 million consumers, which is two Class I rail lines and a commercial airport region?
10 million more than the Dallas 500-mile have a population of over 250,000, the
reach. Within this 500-mile drayage area Two Texarkana’s combined is about 70,000 Job growth is very important to a local
are 23 of the nation’s largest MSA’s and 10 economy. Every year our high schools,
of the fastest growing. This access comes Recent expansions and job and capital colleges, and Universities graduate thousands
at a fraction of the transportation costs due investment announcements of people into the local workforce; however,
to our strategic, central location and robust at best (historically) the Texarkana area
infrastructure. Our world class infrastructure ࣿ TexAmericas Center Ranked a Top 10 creates hundreds of jobs. So, we hemorrhage
system is a contributing factor to our low Industrial Park in the USA (2020-2022) labor every year to growing job markets like
transportation costs, whether you ship by TAC announces six (6) customers using Dallas Ft.Worth and Little Rock. Creating our
road, rail, air, or waterways, our infrastructure ࣿ 3PL services (2022) owns jobs, and especially quality jobs that
system is designed to meet your needs. pay at or above the average wage for the
ࣿ Expansion Ammunition announced Texarkana region means our children don’t
$150m – 500 job projects at TAC (2022)
Eric what key factors contributed to have to leave Texarkana to get a good job
the TexAmericas Center being named ࣿ VA opened new 21k sf clinic in Texarkana and that young adults that left Texarkana
as one of the highest performing and (2022) can come home closer to loved ones to
most successful local redevelopment Expal USA announces expansion at raise their family. Our research shows that
authorities in the country? ࣿ at its height, the combined Red River Army
TAC (2022)
Depot and Lone Star Army Ammunition
Size Distinctive assets Plant employed over 30,000 people in the
ࣿ Over 12,000 acres, spread across three Laborforce summer of 1969. Now, that employment is
(3) campuses ● about 3,000. Creating jobs is the difference
ࣿ Over 3,500,000 square feet of existing ● About 18.6% of the greater Texarkana between a growing economy and stagnant
space region is engaged in manufacturing, and shrinking economy. We at TexAmericas
more than twice the US average Center get asked why we don’t attract a HEB,
Location to markets Nordstrom, Trader Joe’s, and others. We
ࣿ Our 500-mile market includes ● The second largest civilian workforce always say, “Those companies choose where
in the U.S., A population of over
● 10,000,000 more people than they locate based on the number of roof tops
the DFW 500-mile market 1.1 million individuals and a labor
participation rate of 56% produces and the income in those households. If you
● 23 of the largest MSA’s in the USA about half a million employable want us to bring those companies here, then

90. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

we must bring more primary employers that stable leadership on both state and local levels More than just a mind-set, our “can-do”
pay well, quality jobs. that are committed to operating efficiently to attitude is one of the most powerful assets we
affect the bottom line. These characteristics have to draw on and it becomes a formidable
Eric, the last 20 years have seen some allow us to offer our tenants custom real estate, weapon as we face the inevitable issues,
huge success stories in the Texarkana logistics, financial solutions and paralleled struggles and obstacles that accompany every
region. Can you tell us about some of speed-to-market therefore speed-to-profit. successful project. It has been said that “Can”
these great achievements? Our tenants enjoy tax assessments, real and “do” are two self-explanatory words which
estate costs, and utility and labor rates that refer to belief and self-confidence as well as
I think of myself as a change agent and are among the lowest in the State of Texas. execution and performance. Both notions are
a community turnaround specialist and intertwined, like a formula in which optimism,
Texarkana is a Turnaround Town. There are We focus on Speed-to-Occupancy perseverance, resilience, and capacity deliver
absolutely a few investments that led to the higher performance. Procrastination and
turnaround some of these investments are: As a Local Redevelopment Authority, negativity are present, but only to elevate
TexAmericas Center has unique capabilities the outcome. A “can-do” attitude carries
ࣿ Texas A&M–Texarkana first opened that allow us to offer unparalleled speed- a fundamental air of inevitability. We are
with 323 students in 1971 as East Texas to-market and speed-to-profit: people that focus on the positive, success
State University Center at Texarkana. A&M and action. We call it Strategic Doing. We
originally shared a campus with Texarkana's TexAmericas Center has control of its tackle mental roadblocks, aim high and are
local Texarkana College. The Texarkana ࣿ
own zoning and permitting, eliminating not afraid to stretch ourselves.
branch became a separate institution and was much of the red tape traditionally found in
renamed to Texas A&M University–Texarkana getting your business operational.
in 1996. The university became a four-year
college with graduate programs in 2010, ࣿ We have a professional engineer on
moving to its new and current campus near staff to approve site plans, building plans,
Bringle Lake Park in north Texarkana. In and occupancy permits with a 72-hour
the late 2010s, the university received large turnaround, shaving months off your timeline.
funding grants from the state legislature,
including $32 million worth of building ࣿ TexAmericas Center offers unique value-
construction in 2016, and a 2019 $3.6 added services including: third party logistics,
million funding addition for new academic transload, rail services, incentive management,
programs. An additional $43 million was and soft-landing services that can help an
announced in 2021 for buildings. international business transition into a new
market easier.
ࣿ The University of Arkansas Hope-
Texarkana (UAHT) is a public community We focus on Operational Savings ERIC VOYLES
college in Hope and Texarkana, Arkansas.
It is affiliated with the University of Arkansas As our tenants’ ombudsmen we focus our EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
System. The UAHT traces its roots to the time on ways to keep costs down and sharing CHIEF ECONOMIC
Red River Vocational-Technical School which expenses when possible: DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
was established in 1965 in Hope, AR. In
2012, the UAHT expanded its operation to ࣿ Lease rates for existing buildings in our m
include an instructional facility in Texarkana, area are one quarter the rate of the Dallas
Arkansas. The U of A Texarkana instructional metro market. 107 Chapel Lane
site encompasses 22 acres. In early 2019, New Boston, TX 75570
the college changed its name to the University ࣿ Our reliable, industrial-grade utilities n
of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana due to the are 20-40% lower in cost than the national CEll: (903) 306-8923
growth of the Texarkana campus. The U.S. average.
Census also estimates that five of the six OFFICE: (903)223-9841
service area counties for UAHT experienced Labor rates are 80% of the Texas average, e
population declines averaging almost six ࣿ [email protected]
giving you quality labor for a fraction of
percent between 2000 and 2010. As of the cost.
2010, almost twenty-two percent of the d
service area’s population lived below the ࣿ Aggregate property tax rates for our TexAmericasCenter.com
poverty line. area are the lowest in the State of Texas,
offering both a lower rate and a lower
How does your Can-Do attitude and property valuation.
speed-to-market ensure success in
TexAmericas Center?
ࣿ Property tax rates are 20-30% below
Businesses located at TexAmericas Center tax rates for major metro markets.
experience the advantages the state’s
welcoming business environment as well as ࣿ TexAmericas Center is not located in a
the rewards at our local level. The Texarkana municipality and therefore does not levy taxes,
region has the most economical cost structure meaning a 100% permanent municipal tax
in the State of Texas. This is due to strong, abatement on real property and inventory.

91. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Tomball, Texas, an easy thirty minutes from Texas Education Agency and is the top in August 2023, the P-TECH Healthcare
Houston, offers the necessary traits for modern rated district in Harris and Montgomery program is a partnership between Tomball
business success. Tomball stands out as an County. TEDC partners with Tomball ISD on ISD, Lone Star College-Tomball, and HCA
attractive corporate investment destination Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Houston Healthcare Tomball.
for a multitude of reasons, including shovel- Mathematics (STEAM) camps and career
ready land, business-friendly principles, fairs to advance workforce development The program will allow eighth graders
advanced infrastructure, and an available in Tomball. the opportunity to pursue a pathway in
qualified workforce. Tomball’s rich culture healthcare that blends high school and the
and small-town charm help attract talent. Tomball ISD is getting set to open its brand- first two years of college. Students enrolled
A collaborative approach to workforce new Tomball Innovation Center. Located in the P-TECH program work toward an
development sets up companies to thrive on 70 acres, the campus will be a hub for associate degree while gaining hands-on
in Tomball. career and technical education, leading to work experience. Upon graduation, these
career pathways for hundreds of students. students will have access to first in-line, high
Defined by its warm and welcoming people, priority job interviews with HCA Houston
Tomball is growing rapidly and smartly to Lone Star College-Tomball, a member of Healthcare Tomball.
maintain its cultural charm. Thousands the nationally ranked community college
of master-planned homesites are recently system, educates thousands of students Developing a qualified business workforce
completed, planned, or under construction. with direct placement into the workforce. is foundational for the TEDC and included
It is projected that Tomball’s population will Committed to serving businesses investing in its strategic plan. The TEDC works closely
grow from around 12,000 to more than in Tomball, Lone Star College-Tomball is a with partners, such as Tomball ISD and Lone
20,000 by 2030. Tomball is preparing direct injector of talent for local companies. Star College- Tomball, to connect workforce
for population in the area immediately leaders with Tomball businesses. TEDC staff
surrounding Tomball to surpass 100,000 Collaborating with Tomball businesses is serve on advisory boards, participate in focus
within five years. essential to Tomball ISD and Lone Star groups, and coordinate with allies to build
College-Tomball’s workforce approach. In workforce capacity, including co-hosting job
Educating and training available talent is conjunction with the TEDC, these entities fairs for students and experienced workers.
critical to meeting the growing needs of partner with local companies to fill current The TEDC’s workforce efforts earned the
businesses in Tomball. The Tomball Economic and future workforce needs. organization recognition in the Workforce
Development Corporation (TEDC) works with Excellence Awards program sponsored by
its education partners to build and maintain An example of this partnership is the new the Texas Economic Development Council
a robust, well-trained workforce. Pathways in Technology Early College High in June.
School (P-TECH) for Healthcare at Tomball
Tomball Independent School District was Star Academy, which will be housed at Emphasis placed on workforce has been a
recently named a Straight A District by the the Tomball Innovation Center. Opening major factor in Tomball’s ability to recruit

92. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

with all utilities, provides off-site detention,
and has quick access to Tomball’s expanding
infrastructure. Operated by the TEDC, the
master-planned and deed-restricted light
industrial Park utilizes flexible lot sizes and
competitive pricing to attract businesses.

Old Town Tomball remains the heart of
Tomball. Centered around lively Main Street,
the downtown district displays small town
charm. Investments throughout Old Town
bring visitors and residents to enjoy food,
shopping, and entertainment. Labeled a
“foodie destination,” Tomball’s culinary scene
has blossomed with several must-try dining
spots from Tex-Mex to barbecue. Tomball
also welcomes thousands of visitors every
year to its more than 20 annual festivals
and parades. Businesses throughout Tomball
recognize Tomball’s charming lifestyle as an
amenity that attracts talent.

and retain corporate investment. Economic actively being completed, providing easier Talent attraction to recruit qualified workers
growth is substantial, with new businesses commutes and efficient product movement. to Tomball and workforce development
attracted to business and retail centers, from initiatives that prepare students and residents
historic Old Town Tomball to innovative The ability to easily move product has has for local jobs continue to drive Tomball’s
Tomball Business & Technology Park. Along helped Tomball land major developments. success. Utilizing committed partners and
with talent, businesses are discovering that One such business development, Interchange a clear vision, Tomball is prepared to meet
Tomball has all necessary amenities that 249, broke ground in March. Developed the needs of existing and new businesses.
allow a business to succeed. Near the top by Lovett Industrial and Clarion Partners, Combined with a rich culture, strong business
of that list is a great location with superior Interchange 249 is located on Tomball principles, and a strong spirit of collaboration,
accessibility. Parkway directly south of Grand Parkway. available talent makes Tomball the ideal
The groundbreaking followed a February place for business success. Find out how
announcement by Macy’s, Inc. to expand Tomball can help your business at https://
Investment in modern infrastructure improves
mobility to, from, and through Tomball, operations from its current Houston distribution tomballtxedc.org/
helping to bring talent into Tomball every center into the modern Tomball facility at
day. Tomball Parkway has been improved as Interchange 249. The 900,000 square-foot
a major thoroughfare with convenient surface distribution center will be part of Interchange
road access to businesses and residences. 249’s three million square feet of class A
Grand Parkway is the most recent motorway industrial and retail space.
developed to carry people and product Closer to Tomball’s core, Tomball Business &
throughout the region. Connectors from Technology Park is a 99.5-acre park nestled
Grand Parkway to Tomball Parkway are among tall pine trees. The Park is fully served

KELLY VIOLETTE

CECD, PCED, AICP
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
M
29201 Quinn Road, Suite B
Tomball, TX 77375
N
(281) 401-4086
(281) 351-7223
e
[email protected]
d
tomballtxedc.org

93. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

ࣿ Christopher briefly explain where access to Dallas/Fort Worth and a westbound incentive package is prepared to meet the
Clyde is located and when the connection to I-10 and El Paso. Additionally, best possible solution for each company's
organization formed. Clyde is located near U.S Highways 83, 84, needs while considering the return to the
The City of Clyde was officially incorporated 277, 36, and 18, allowing for coast-to-coast community. Texas offers a state tax incentive
on July 9, 1907. The City of Clyde is located travel. The Abilene Regional Airport services through the Texas Enterprise Zone Program
10 miles east of Abilene, Texas. Clyde is Clyde and offers daily express flights to for businesses that create job growth and
less than a two-hour drive to Dallas/Fort Dallas and Fort Worth, serviced by American capital investment in redeveloped parts of
Worth, and its population of over 7 million. Airlines, serving over 90,000 passengers the community. Additionally, data centers
It is strategically located along Interstate 20 annually. For companies making a foreign are exempt from state sales. They use tax
(I-20), a major east-west interstate highway direct investment in Clyde, Dallas Fort Worth on certain items that are essential to their
in the southern United States. Interstate 20 International has 49 international and 137 operation. A Freeport property tax exemption
runs through Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, domestic connections to markets. spares goods detained in Texas for 175 days
Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. For companies requiring seaport access, Clyde or less from taxation — making the state an
Within Texas, Interstate 20 is a crucial is 337 miles from the Port of Houston, the ideal site for businesses involved in high-
connection to El Paso and Interstate 10. number 1 U.S port in waterborne tonnage. volume warehousing. Several additional
The City of Clyde is within 10 miles of the For companies that require rail access, Union state incentives include manufacturing
Abilene Regional Airport and 146 miles Pacific has a rail service that runs directly exemptions, freeport exemptions, data center
from the Dallas Fort Worth International through Clyde, with 8.5 miles of short line incentives, state skills development funds,
Airport, and 10 miles from commercial rail service located in the City of Abilene for self-sufficiency funds, and Ad Valorem/
access. The City of Clyde affords direct shipping or receiving of commodities such Property tax exemptions.
access to Interstate 20, with daily traffic as grain, feed, fertilizers, oil, corn sweetener,
counts exceeding 40K vehicles. and lumber. ࣿ How important is retaining, expanding,
and attracting new business in Clyde,
ࣿ What are the Top 5 reasons companies The City Council has prioritized Economic Texas?
choose to do business in Clyde, Texas? Development to enhance economic vitality The City of Clyde's Business Retention and
Why is Clyde such an attractive investment and quality of life initiatives and facilitate job Expansion program promotes business
destination? creation in Clyde, Callahan County, and West growth, capital investment, and job creation
First and foremost, the City of Clyde prides itself Central Texas. The City and State sales tax by connecting local business owners with the
on being business-friendly. The City of Clyde rate in Clyde is 8.25%, with no personal or resources they need to succeed. The Business
offers expedited permitting and inspection corporate income tax in the State of Texas. Retention and Expansion team also informs
services for time-sensitive projects. Clyde is a local business development initiatives by
full-service city that provides all infrastructure Created in 2003, the Texas Enterprise Fund gathering information and analyzing trends
services, including water, sewer, and solid (TEF) is the nation's most prominent "deal- in the overall regional business climate.
waste management. Additionally, Clyde closing" fund. It heavily focuses on job The City of Clyde and the Clyde Economic
has established strategic relationships with creation and capital investment to compete Development Corporation leverage Placer.ai's
American Electric Power Texas (AEP), Kinetic with out-of-state options. Over 100 grants real-time foot traffic and consumer leakage
by Windstream, Suddenlink Communications, have been awarded across industries since data to help businesses refine their marketing
Atmos Energy, Taylor Electric Cooperative, the fund's inception, totaling more than plans and provide them with critical location
and AT&T. $500 million. Performance agreements and trade analysis data.
and Half Cent Sales Tax are other powerful
Clyde's location along I-20 in Central West local incentives. Performance agreements Attracting new business and investment to
Texas provides direct access to the southern are fully controlled at the local level and Clyde is a top priority for the Clyde Economic
United States and Mexico. With our location are not dependent upon state or county Development Corporation (CEDC). CEDC's
directly on I-20, Clyde offers eastbound I-20 approval. Every economic development attraction strategy includes engaging with

94. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

and cultivating relationships with corporate
location decision-makers and C-suite business
executives to increase their awareness of all
Clyde, and the State of Texas has to offer.
Our goal is proactively recruit targeted
companies by identifying and researching
their growth potential, delivering reliable data
supporting a Clyde location, and developing
a competitive incentive package.

ࣿ What are the core industry sectors
in your community?
Historically, ranching and agriculture were
core industry sectors. However, over the
past several years, there has been significant
growth in small and family-owned businesses,
data/crypto centers, oil and gas services,
and renewable energy sectors. The region
has become a magnet for industries such What services and programs are jobs. Applications should be submitted before
as advanced manufacturing, professional ࣿ
provided to businesses needing to start the start of construction.
services, education, healthcare, research and up, expand, relocate and develop their
development, and military and government workforce? What can the world of foreign direct investment
contracting. expect to see from the City of Clyde, Texas, in
With unique benefits, including no Texas
ࣿ How affordable is the cost of living corporate income tax at the state level, ࣿ 2023? Can you disclose any upcoming
in Clyde, Texas, compared to other cities companies contributing to Clyde's economic announcements?
in Texas and the United States? vitality through job creation, capital
improvements, and other investments gain 2023 will be an exciting year in the City
The City of Clyde's cost indices is 19.4% below of Clyde as we open the Hanner Sports
the cost of living average in the United States an additional edge. Known for being one Complex, which is a $15 Million state-of-
and 13.6% below the Texas average. The of the best enterprise funds in the nation, the-art youth sports complex that consists
Texas has no personal, state, or corporate
median home value in Clyde is $101,700, of three championship baseball fields, three
the median rental cost is $885 per month, income tax at the state level. Both local and championship softball fields, four tennis
and the median income is $62,384. There state, Texas incentives are offered through courts, four pickleball courts, two sand
are several new housing subdivisions under tax abatements, refunds and rebates, loans, volleyball courts, and a soccer field, along
development with over 400 units available. enterprise zones, and Central Texas business with concession facilities, a splash park, and
The price range for these subdivisions is in grants. Along with these Texas incentives, playground. Also, in 2023, the City of Clyde
employers may team with higher education
the low $200,000 to the mid $500,000. will complete over $33 Million in infrastructure
institutions to fund training tailored for skills
ࣿ What strategies are in place to ensure demanded by industry needs. Taxes on improvements that will modernize our water,
sewer, and solid waste management systems.
continued talent attraction and a highly equipment, machinery, electricity and natural
skilled workforce in Clyde, Texas? gas are offset for qualifying companies
and purchases. With costs 19.4% below
Clyde and the region are uniquely positioned the national average, Clyde is one of the
to support developing and fast-growing best values in the country when it comes
sectors such as clean energy, aerospace, to growing a business. Here are the Texas
aviation, and advanced manufacturing. The incentives designed to lower your business
regional labor shed is 140,000, and within costs and boost your bottom line in Clyde.
10 miles of Clyde are four universities, a
community college, and a technical college. Christopher McGuire
The local school districts have added career The Clyde Economic Development Corporation
and technical programs and technology, Board of Directors is authorized to invest City Administrator and Executive
science, engineering, and math programs. The corporation funds to help create primary Director of Economic Development
region also has a large veteran community jobs and increase the city's tax base and City of Clyde, Texas
with diverse skill sets. Clyde works with the other legally allowed activities. Approved M
companies may earn a loan, forgivable
Texas Workforce Commission and Workforce PO Box 1155, 222 Oak Street | Clyde,
Solutions of West Central Texas to strengthen loan, or reimbursement grant. Through the Texas 79510
the economic vitality in our 19-county region Texas Local Government Code, the City of N
by investing in the success of residents and Clyde offers a range of incentives, including Office: (325) 893-4234
Cell: (325) 899-2189
businesses. loans and grants, to promote economic Fax: (325) 893-5010
development. Referred to as Chapter 380 E
ࣿ Christopher, where would you like Funds, it's a mechanism for the city to refund [email protected]
to see more international investment or rebate their 1% portion of sales and use tax. D
coming from in the City of Clyde, Texas? clyde-tx.gov
Ideally, with the region's growth in clean The City of Clyde offers tax abatement on real
energy sectors and advanced manufacturing, property and fixed improvements for up to
we believe international investment in those 10 years based on primary job creation and
sectors and chip manufacturing would do investment. At a minimum, the project must
remarkably well and can be supported by increase the property's value by $250,000
the region's highly skilled workforce. and create or retain a minimum of 25 new

95. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

ा The Area at a Glance cost of living . New employees moving number 163 out of 3142 counties in the
into the area will get a great value for their US for employment and productivity. This
Waller County is part of the Houston, Texas
region. The Houston area is one of the money while enjoying wonderful amenities means that employers can expect a high
nation’s most diverse, and fifth most populous such as a vast park system, world-class rate of productivity from Waller County
Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA) in the US. entertainment, and more. workers. Waller County is well above the
Companies have found a viable and talented Low Regulatory Environment national median for productivity.
workforce supported by over 40 colleges ा Infrastructure
and universities. In fact, Waller County is Why are so many European companies ा
home to Prairie View A&M University, the finding a great home in Waller County, Waller County is well served by critical road,
second oldest University in Texas. Texas? Although we have a world-class rail, and aviation infrastructure. Strategically
workforce, available and affordable land, located on the west side of the Houston
and a solid infrastructure, the main reason region, major US, Interstate, and state roads
we hear is that Waller County has a low provide ample vehicular mobility for moving
regulatory environment. It’s easy to setup goods in and out of the area. We are about
shop in Waller County. We invite you to an hour and a half to the Port of Houston,
discover the freedom of doing business in about one hour to Houston Intercontinental
Waller County. or Hobby Airports.

We believe the government that governs least The northern portion of the county is serviced
governs best. To that end, Waller County by US Hwy 290, which connects Houston to
leadership has worked hard over the years Austin. Commute times to Houston range
to provide a strong environment for business from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on
to thrive without unnecessary governmental departure time and destination. Travel to
Twenty-four companies on the Fortune 500 interference while protecting the health safety Austin ranges from one and a half hours
to two hours. Rail is provided on two lines
list have headquarters in the Houston area . and welfare of the community. This is done along US 290 and Interstate 10 by Union
In addition, Waller County is home to three by attracting top companies that join with us
US or North American headquarters with to support the community. Making Waller Pacific Railroad.
companies from Switzerland, Germany, and County home for your business is a fast, State Hwy 6 joins US Hwy 290 in the town of
Denmark. They are the cornerstones of a friendly, and easy experience. Hempstead. Hwy 6 connects Waller County
growing European corporate community in Productive Workforce with the Bryan-College Station area, home
Waller County. Our international community ा to Texas A&M University. Commute time
is comprised of companies from over 20 As part of the Houston Region we have one to Texas A&M from Hempstead is about
countries and growing. of the best trained, educated, and diverse 45 minutes.
workforces in the world. But don’t take our
Of the top 20 metropolitan areas in the US, word for it. According to Stats America’s To the south is Hwy 90 and Interstate 10.
the Houston region has the second lowest Innovation Index , Waller County is ranked Interstate 10 connects Houston with San

96. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Antonio. Commute times into Houston along
Interstate 10 range from 45 minutes to
one hour. During morning and evening
rush, these times are doubled. To ease the
congestion along Interstate 10, new lanes
are being built that will make it one of the
widest highways in the area.

ा Available Mega Sites
As of the last available data, the Houston
area has about 14.5 million square feet of
available industrial space. Of that, Waller
County currently has over 5 million square
feet of space under construction. More
new facilities are being added daily. And,
of course, there is plenty of affordable land.
ा Houston Executive Airport Entrepreneurship-Economic Development
Center (ICEED). The program is committed to
Most of the new buildings are being developed The airport sits on about 1200 acres with
in three mega sites. The first is Beacon Hill. another 1000 available for potential future advancing the innovation and entrepreneurship
This is a 500-acre mixed use industrial and development. It is home to the Hendriksen enterprise by significantly increasing the
commercial space located in Waller along US Jet Center FBO and several other charter innovation and commercialization activities
Hwy 290. The second is Twinwood. This is services and aviation companies. They by faculty, students and staff researchers. In
a 600-acre industrial development located are looking at the potential to add customs alignment with the Division of Research &
along the Interstate 10 corridor. It is home to services in the future. Innovation’s strategic vision to elevate the
the North American Headquarters of MAN PVAMU’s Innovation enterprise, the ICEED is
Energy Solutions, a well-respected German ा Prairie View A&M University dedicated to providing strategic and business
company. Finally, there is Empire West. This Established in 1876, Prairie View A&M support services.
is a 370-acre industrial development also University was the first state supported Port Houston
located on Interstate 10. There are currently College in Texas for African Americans. It ा
about 3 million square feet of available space is part of the highly-respected Texas A&M Waller County is one of only two counties in
being constructed. system and is the second oldest public the Houston region that is part of the Port’s
institution of higher education in Texas. Alternative Site Framework. This relationship
The Interstate 10 area in Waller County has With eight colleges and schools, PVAMU makes Waller County part of Port Houston’s
developed into a logistics and manufacturing boasts more than 70 degree programs, Foreign Trade Zone #84 (FTZ). This means
super corridor. In addition, just north on including engineering, natural sciences, supported companies can setup an FTZ quickly
Interstate 10 there are several large tracts business, the arts, nursing, and criminal and and without paying application fees. For US
available for future development. reshoring and international companies, this
juvenile justice. Students seeking rewarding
and challenging experiences outside of the is a great way to retain your international
ा G-Tech Innovation Center classroom can do so through our study- supply chain while bringing your enterprise
The Innovation Center is an incubator for abroad programs that focus on building to the US.
international companies. It is setup to support global leaders through cultural training, the
small companies looking for a US presence. arts, and service-learning projects.
No matter how small your company is, the
center can support your efforts by providing The University also supports local business
affordable space to get you started. through the Innovation-Commercialization-

Vince Yokom, CEcD, EDFP, CVA
Executive Director
Waller County Economic
Development Partnership
M
519 9th St. Suite A
Hempstead, TX 77445
N
Office: 979-921-9059
Cellular: 979-402-0854
E
[email protected]
D
wallercounty.org

* PRELIMINARY NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION, PERMIT, OR REGULATORY APPROVAL. *RENDERING IS REPRESENTATIVE OF DESIGN INTENT ONLY. IT IS NOT A PHOTOREALISTIC REPRESENTATION OF ACTUAL MATERIALS PROPOSED AND SHOULD BE CONSIDERED PRELIMINARY AT ALL STAGES.
* ALL BUILDING AREAS ARE APPROXIMATE UNTIL BUILDING FOOTPRINT / ENTRY DESIGNS ARE FINALIZED.
BROOKSHIRE OFFICE CONDO
A PROJECT FOR G-TECH
HOUSTON 08/12/22 TEXAS Author 181297

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99. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA

West Virginia, constituent state of the United States employees an advantage through renowned,
of America. It is bordered by Pennsylvania to the specialized workforce education and training
north, Maryland and Virginia to the east, Kentucky programs. Over the last decade, West Virginia’s
to the southwest, and Ohio to the northwest. The Community and Technical Colleges have created
state capital is Charleston. West Virginia justifies in nearly 150 new customer training programs,
every way its nickname, the Mountain State. With many in partnership with local companies and
an average elevation of about 1,500 feet above business investors.
sea level, it is the highest of any U.S. state east of the
Mississippi River. Top-ranked universities, fulfilling careers, award-
winning health institutions, thriving arts communities
Over 136 companies from 30 countries have and ample outdoor recreation activities are just a
chosen West Virginia as their ideal operational few elements that draw people to the Mountain
base in North America. West Virginia companies, Governor Jim Justice State. West Virginia has made it a top priority to
both large and small, contribute to the growth in address and respond to the needs of today’s
our exports. In 2021, West Virginia exports were companies by offering a stable and predictable
valued at $8.4 billion. International companies on corporations himself to promote investment in business climate.
in West Virginia employ 29,100 U.S. workers. West Virginia. Governor Wise is now beginning to
Approximately 15,000 of those jobs are in the see the fruits of his labour for a new West Virginia. Opportunities for a thriving, happy life abound in
manufacturing sector. With 336 international the Mountain State. What makes West Virginia
companies in the Mountain State, global investment After years of worldwide promotion of the state’s truly unique is its gorgeous landscape, authentic
grows West Virginia’s economy. economic development, West Virginia is seeing hospitality, colorful culture and dynamic heritage.
success in key industries such as automotives and Aggressive pro-business legislation makes opening
Cost of living in West Virginia is 12% below the new technologies centred on the chemical industry, and operating a business within the state’s borders
national average. West Virginia residents enjoy a plastics, energy and telecommunications. a solid investment for companies large and small.
variety of affordable and safe housing options to West Virginia offers businesses and industries the
meet every individual or family’s needs. opportunity to partner with our Community and West Virginians are known for their grit and hard
Technical College System to develop specialized work. Our strong labor history resonates with us to
Governor Wise is a strong proponent for economic education and training programs. this day. Here in the Mountain State, you will find an
development, even when budgets are tight. He eager, determined workforce with the grit, skills and
makes himself available to corporate executives Workforce training is a top priority in the Mountain training to get the job done.
both in the US and overseas, and frequently calls State. West Virginia gives businesses and their

100. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

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