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Published by Courtneymargetson, 2023-03-31 10:29:17

FDI Alliance International Magazine. Digital Interactive Issue Winter 2023

Pages:

1 - 50
51 - 98

Showcasing the most lucrative investment destinations in the world.

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND SITE SELECTION
FDIALLIANCE

INTERNATIONAL
WINTER INTERACTIVE ISSUE 2023

THRIVING INDUSTRIES IN 2023

$21.7 BILLION IN NEW INVESTMENT & 34,000 JOBS
ANNOUNCED SINCE 2021

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH
KENTUCKY GOVERNOR ANDY BESHEAR

TONY BOONE SIERRA VISTA AZ

EV & AUTOMOTIVE BOURBON & SPIRITS DISTRIBUTION & LOGISTICS METALS

GREENSBORO & HIGH POINT NC LOCATION SPOTLIGHT

THIS ISSUE IS SPONSORED BY THE KENTUCKY CABINET FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

10. GOVERNOR ANDY BESHEAR 42. TODD KUCKKAHN 70. RUTH A. BUCHANAN, MBA, CECD
Fdi Alliance International Speaks To Those Darn Kids Nowadays: The Technology And Innovation Anchor
Governor Andy Beshear Challenge Of Generational Diversity Florida’s Thriving Industries
14. C. PAIGE WEBSTER, CECD 44. BRANDON MATTINGLY 72. BRUCE TAKEFMAN
Future Outlook Of Industry Sectors To Going Global: Foreign Direct Investment Exploring Thriving Industries Set To
Thrive In 2023 And Beyond Vital To Kentucky’s Surging Economy Attract Foreign Direct Investment In
2023
16. DAVID B. NAST 46. LOUISVILLE
Optimizing Talent In Thriving Industries A Top Destination For Sciences Logistics 76. MYRTLE BEACH
Innovation More Than Just A Vacation Destination
18. RONNIE L. BRYANT
A Future Forward View Into The Global 48. BRAD THOMAS 78. BERNADETTE FERNANDES
Marketplace Of Opportunities Turning Our Bluegrass Green Industries Thrive From Grand
Challenges
50. BETHANY QUINN,
22. TONY BOONE The Interconnectedness Of Thriving
Fdi Alliance International Speaks To Industries 82. TOMBALL TEXAS
Tony Boone Strategically Located And Developed
52. ERRAN F. PERSLEY For Thriving Industries
24. SHIRAR O’CONNOR AGTECH: The Future Of Farming
FDI Activity In 2023 look To The 84. DICKINSON TEXAS
Challenges And You Will Find The 56. RICHARD C.D. FLEMING Right Place Right Now
Opportunities 4th Industrial Revolution: ST. Louis
Geospatial Intelligence Sector Is 86. CLYDE TEXAS
30. HUNTINGTON COUNTY Emerging As A New Why Doing Business In Clyde, Texas
175 Years And Still Growing Strong Makes Perfect Sense
62. GUILFORD COUNTY
Fdi Alliance International Speaks With 88. “SUPER” DAVE QUINN, CECD
32. BOB SAGER Sandy Dunbeck & Brent Christensen
Outrunning The Bear Unlocking Success: How Small
Companies Can Succeed In Three
64. DANIEL ELLIOTT Growing Sectors Of 2023
34. COURTNEY FINGAR STB Approves Merger Between CP And
FDI Industries Of The Future KCS: Will This Be Good For 92. JEFFERSON COUNTY
Business In The Us? Where business feels at home
40. ALIA ABBAS
Growing Aviation Industry: Pearson 68. ERIE PENNSYLVANIA 95. BETTY ENCINALES
Economic Growth Zone Initiative A Wealth of Water: Why Erie's A Natural A War For Talent In Thriving
(PEGZI) Choice Industries

TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO A BETTER PLACE — TAKE IT TO
CONNECTICUT

Successful companies pick the best location

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LEARN MORE AT ADVANCECT.ORG

5. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

magazine is now reaching over one million corporate
executives per issue.
By continuing to effectively utilize the world's
most trusted social media platforms, FDI Alliance
International is now the leading magazine in
this industry sector. Our outreach on LinkedIn
via our international partners is over 735,000.
Being able to digitally reach 2.9 million corporate
executives every year has help to facilitate our
continued growth.

By showcasing the most lucrative business locations
worldwide, we are very excited to continue to
grow. Our expansion includes operations in North
America, Europe, the Middle East, and China. With
our proven track record of establishing long-term
business partnerships, these connections will only
expand our platform.
As the publisher of FDI Alliance International
Magazine, I'm honoured to present our 2023 We feel very privileged to have clients that have
winter issue to the world. We feel truly blessed continued to support and work with us over the
to be working with our second state government years. I would also like to recognize our expert
office in the United States. contributors and international partners that add
significant value to our platform. In addition, I
I would like to thank our sponsor, the Kentucky would like to recognize and thank our creative
Cabinet For Economic Development. This wonderful and production team led by Matthew Emmanuel.
state is led by Governor Andy Beshear. I would Lastly, I would also like to thank Brad Thomas, who
also like to recognize Brandon Mattingly who has has added significant value to our international
been instrumental in putting this issue together. partnerships.
One of the biggest highlights in this issue is the
interview with Kentucky Governor, Andy Beshear. I hope you enjoy this issue focusing on "Thriving
I had the pleasure of speaking with him over a Industries" in 2023. We will continue to serve the
zoom meeting. We are looking forward to our foreign direct investment industry and promote the
future partnership with the state for years to come. most lucrative investment locations in the world.
As we move into the second quarter of this year, As we grow, you grow...
FDI Alliance International has now partnered
with over 115 foreign direct investment experts
and communities from across the world. We have
successfully built a large world-wide audience Courtney Margetson
including corporate professionals, site selectors,
business owners and C-level executives. Our CEO / Executive Publisher

7. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

FDIALLIANCE

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ACROSS THE LINKEDIN NETWORK

THESE NUMBERS INCLUDE PAID TARGETED ADVERTISING FROM FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL
8. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

FDIALLIANCE

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

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9. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

FDI ALLIANCE

INTERNATIONAL

SPEAKS WITH

KENTUCKY GOVERNOR

ANDY BESHEAR United States and where they might want to land their very first facility, find anywhere in the world. We have 4,660 kilometers of railroad,

they have access to such a wide range of consumers that puts them at 1,640 kilometers of commercial navigable waterways, and we have
a competitive advantage just by locating in Kentucky. Second, we have been investing in those just receiving the largest infrastructure grant in
an incredible workforce. We are good people with good values. When U.S. history to build a companion bridge next to what’s called the Brent
we give you our word it is our bond and company after company have Spence that connects Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. About 3-5% of
Q: What is the primary objective of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic many of our small businesses. The goal is to provide both resources – discovered what the Kentucky workforce is capable of. The third is I think the country’s GDP goes across it every day and so we know especially
Development? connect people to our Angel investment and venture capital – along with we have one of the best structures for workforce development. We just in those most important corridors we have to continue to invest and that
different incentive programs that we have. Between the Kentucky Business
A: The primary objective of the cabinet is the primary objective for all of Investment program, we call that KBI, to the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative added another $250 million of investment into our career and technical is what we are doing.
training in our high schools, and you will see companies’ equipment in
state government. That is to bring prosperity to every community and Act, we call that KEIA, our Direct Loan Program, Industrial Revenue Bonds, the high school being used to train these students and preparing them
to build and provide a better life for our people. The mission has to be Community Development Block Grants – we also recently received $117 to be a valuable part of our future workforce. We have a community Q: Which industries have you seen thrive the most in the last 24
to earn trust, be strategic, and be a super collaborator in growing jobs, million from the federal government that is going to further amplify these
investments, and planning for the future. It’s the primary agency that drives programs specifically for our startups and entrepreneurs, especially those college system all across Kentucky in every single one of our regions months?
that partners directly with businesses on their needs and for our largest
job creation and for the first time in a long time, now drives investment in disadvantaged communities. The other thing we can also do is forge programs, even develops locations on-site. And if I had a fourth, it’s that A: Certainly you see thriving industries in Kentucky that include
in site development and building out utilities to make sure that we are connections. Connections where our startups can seek expertise that
being proactive and not just locating companies on great, existing sites, maybe they otherwise would have not secured – connect them to different our infrastructure is second to none. manufacturing, logistics and distribution, automotive – and I’ll come back
to that – technology, aerospace is one of our largest exports, food and
but creating the sites for the future. It also supports our own homegrown banking or lending resources – and we just launched a program that beverage – bourbon just had its best year for investment and for tourism
businesses. From entrepreneurs to startups to small businesses, we have can be one of our biggest resources for our startup manufacturers and
a portfolio of programs to help people grow. You think about some of our largest manufacturers called Supply Kentucky, whereby Kentucky Q: Governor Beshear, can you briefly explain how Kentucky’s location, in our state’s history – within metals we’re about to open a new green
infrastructure and dedicated workforce guarantees the natural fit for steel facility, we have green aluminum facilities, we have a stainless-steel
the largest corporations in the United States and I’m sure elsewhere companies, for free, have access to a database of all the other Kentucky any industry coming into the commonwealth? facility in North America Stainless that is second to none, Wieland North
started in someone’s garage. So, making sure we are not just bringing companies, bring their supply chain as close to them as possible, reduce
in incredible opportunities like Ford, Envision, and Pratt Paper – which costs for transportation and create jobs along the way. A: Any industry coming in the commonwealth can reach virtually any part America just invested along the copper side, but if you want to look at the
fastest growing sector in Kentucky it’s electric vehicles, specifically electric
have been recent big wins – but also helping that two-, three-, four-person of the United States or any place in the world they need to provide their vehicle batteries. With the investment from Ford and SK On of nearly
Kentucky company grow to be 10, 100, or maybe even one day, 1,000.
Q: I want to delve into some of the strengths of the state – now what goods or their services. We are at the intersection of the north, the south $6 billion – a project that is going to create 5,000 new jobs along with
and the Midwest. Again, we reach two-thirds of the U.S. population in Envision’s $2 billion investment creating 2,000 new jobs – Kentucky is
variety of strengths exist in the state of Kentucky that make it the best
Q: How does the Cabinet supply support and resources to place in the U.S. to do business? a one-day drive. We have three global air cargo hubs – UPS, DHL and forecasted to have more gigawatts of battery production than anywhere
entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners? Amazon – we have six commercial airports including two international. else in the country. One of those Ford SK plants will be the largest battery
We have 50 regional airports where a company can come in and be plant in the history of the world, and we’re building another one that is
A: I think there’s three things. Number 1, we have a prime location. You
A: We have a specific office inside the Cabinet called KY Innovation, can reach two-thirds of the population of the United States in a one-day at their manufacturing facility within 20 minutes of landing. We have the same size right next to it. We’ve seen about $10.5 billion of new
and they work directly with our entrepreneurs and our startups and drive from Kentucky. So, when you think about a company outside the 20+ interstates and parkways – one of the best road systems you will investment in EVs alone. We’re also seeing bourbon – specifically our

10. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

United States and where they might want to land their very first facility, find anywhere in the world. We have 4,660 kilometers of railroad,
they have access to such a wide range of consumers that puts them at 1,640 kilometers of commercial navigable waterways, and we have
a competitive advantage just by locating in Kentucky. Second, we have been investing in those just receiving the largest infrastructure grant in
an incredible workforce. We are good people with good values. When U.S. history to build a companion bridge next to what’s called the Brent
we give you our word it is our bond and company after company have Spence that connects Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. About 3-5% of
discovered what the Kentucky workforce is capable of. The third is I think the country’s GDP goes across it every day and so we know especially
we have one of the best structures for workforce development. We just in those most important corridors we have to continue to invest and that
added another $250 million of investment into our career and technical is what we are doing.
training in our high schools, and you will see companies’ equipment in
the high school being used to train these students and preparing them
to be a valuable part of our future workforce. We have a community Q: Which industries have you seen thrive the most in the last 24
college system all across Kentucky in every single one of our regions months?
that partners directly with businesses on their needs and for our largest
programs, even develops locations on-site. And if I had a fourth, it’s that A: Certainly you see thriving industries in Kentucky that include
our infrastructure is second to none. manufacturing, logistics and distribution, automotive – and I’ll come back
to that – technology, aerospace is one of our largest exports, food and
beverage – bourbon just had its best year for investment and for tourism
Q: Governor Beshear, can you briefly explain how Kentucky’s location, in our state’s history – within metals we’re about to open a new green
infrastructure and dedicated workforce guarantees the natural fit for steel facility, we have green aluminum facilities, we have a stainless-steel
any industry coming into the commonwealth? facility in North America Stainless that is second to none, Wieland North
America just invested along the copper side, but if you want to look at the
A: Any industry coming in the commonwealth can reach virtually any part fastest growing sector in Kentucky it’s electric vehicles, specifically electric
of the United States or any place in the world they need to provide their vehicle batteries. With the investment from Ford and SK On of nearly
goods or their services. We are at the intersection of the north, the south $6 billion – a project that is going to create 5,000 new jobs along with
and the Midwest. Again, we reach two-thirds of the U.S. population in Envision’s $2 billion investment creating 2,000 new jobs – Kentucky is
a one-day drive. We have three global air cargo hubs – UPS, DHL and forecasted to have more gigawatts of battery production than anywhere
Amazon – we have six commercial airports including two international. else in the country. One of those Ford SK plants will be the largest battery
We have 50 regional airports where a company can come in and be plant in the history of the world, and we’re building another one that is
at their manufacturing facility within 20 minutes of landing. We have the same size right next to it. We’ve seen about $10.5 billion of new
20+ interstates and parkways – one of the best road systems you will investment in EVs alone. We’re also seeing bourbon – specifically our

11. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

community college system is second to none and when you look at our
career and technical facilities in our high schools, where we’re investing
spirits and beverage industry – growing faster than ever before. $2.1 billion sure your facility is one of the most profitable throughout the company. more than ever, and then you look at the two-year degrees you can
in new investment in 2022, that was $600 million more than the next We also have long-term relationships with each of our employers – big get at our community colleges, and then our four-year engineering
closest year. I think that’s what you call exponential growth. Then I want or small. Our incentives aren’t just a one-shot deal. When you grow, we programs, I believe we have a structure in place second to none, but
to add to that agriculture and technology and agri-business. Companies want you to come back because we want to help you grow. And listen, we have to continue to innovate, right? You can never stop, so what do
like 80 Acres Farms doing vertical grow operations, and so many others most of our major employers have my cell phone number. As Governor, we need to change within those programs? Apprenticeships is one that
providing opportunities including greenhouses all across Kentucky. We’re when a company is coming in and changing lives, because that’s what new we have seen more and more individuals are signing up for, so we’re
going to have to feed a growing population on planet Earth and Kentucky jobs do, it’s a dignity of work, security for your family, more opportunities expanding it and expanding where they are. We launched the KY FAME
wants to do our part – both because it’s good business and because it’s for your kids. They know they have a personal relationship with me and program, which is the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education,
part of our faith and values. with our Cabinet for Economic Development and that we all want the we have a Talent Pipeline Management program that we work on with
same thing: success for the company, because that is success for our our Chamber of Commerce, we create clusters of industries, such as
workers and citizens. health care and metals, and they come together and talk about how we
Q: Let’s talk about investment. How much new investment and jobs can better prepare our workforce for their industries. We’ve really taken
have been announced in the state of Kentucky since 2021? And groups that used to compete and brought them together so that we can Q: Now, the last question, and one of the more important questions
what key factors have contributed to this huge success in the state Q: What steps have been taken to ensure that companies in the learn from them and then provide them with the best workers possible. I have, what position is the state of Kentucky in – in the U.S. – for
of Kentucky? commonwealth are equipped with superior training and skills to foreign direct investment? And how many foreign companies currently
compete in today’s global economy? operate and do business in the state Kentucky?
A: We’re coming off the best two years for economic development and Q: The state’s work-ready community program has become one of
private sector investment in our history and it’s not even close. 2021 was A: We start in a wonderful place because we have some of the hardest- the most rigorous workforce certification programs in the nation, how A: It might surprise people, but there is a significant amount of foreign direct
$11.2 billion in new private sector investment – a record in Kentucky. working people on planet Earth, but we know that they have to be skilled has that happened? investment in Kentucky. More so than most states. We rank fifth nationally in
2022 was about $10.5 billion of new private sector investment. If you and especially as we’re seeing new industries come in – we talk about the percentage of workers who are employed by international companies.
expand it a little bit, I’ve been Governor for three years, and in that time advanced manufacturing, but that also includes technology, agri-tech, EVs, A: We committed to it. Last year, we were number two in per capita We have 530 foreign-owned facilities that operate in Kentucky and they’re
we’ve seen 838 private sector new location or expansion projects, $24.7 and these industries that will become more prominent in the immediate economic development in the entire country with more new jobs coming from 33 different countries, and 114,000 of my fellow Kentuckians are
billion in investment, 43,700 full-time jobs – and we did all of this in the and long-term future, and what that means is we need a lot of programs in all parts of Kentucky, not just to a couple big cities. We were number employed at those facilities. And when you look at the largest foreign
midst of the COVID pandemic. It has been really special to see what’s and state government has to be directly involved day-in and day-out three in the country in what they call micropolitan – or rural – economic direct investment nations, Japan leads the way with over 200, Germany
going on in Kentucky. We are taking our place as an economic leader in making sure we’re providing those opportunities for our people. That is development, so we want each one of our communities to be able to is second with 83, France has 41, Canada with 35, the United Kingdom
the United States of America. I think it has happened for a lot of reasons, our Work Ready Skills Initiative, which brings private employers, higher thrive in every single area. So, we created this certification program with with 29. When you look at 2021 – our best year, to give a snapshot – we
First, we are in an ideal location. Second, we’ve proven that we can do education institutions, high schools, community colleges all together six different rigorous areas so that every community could take a look created 9,719 new full-time jobs from foreign direct investment, that was
it. When you look at Toyota, which put its first manufacturing facility in to say, “this is what we need” and “this is where we’re going to do it.” at where they are and where they need to be. We believe that it is both close to half of our total that year and $8 billion dollars in new private
the United States in Kentucky in the 1980s, that is still a thriving facility We shouldn’t be competing with each other in that training, we should aspirational and practical at the same time and allows us to provide help investment came from foreign direct investment. So, to the world, we’re
and the biggest in the company. We showed everybody else that first, we be ensuring that we have enough everywhere. We have work-ready on the state level to communities that are hungry and to make sure they open for business. We will ensure that you are successful. When you
welcome the world, but second that if you come to Kentucky, we’ll make scholarships which ensure people are getting into those programs. Our build out everything that they need to be successful. come to Kentucky, you create long-lasting and long-term relationships.

12. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

community college system is second to none and when you look at our
career and technical facilities in our high schools, where we’re investing
more than ever, and then you look at the two-year degrees you can
get at our community colleges, and then our four-year engineering
programs, I believe we have a structure in place second to none, but
we have to continue to innovate, right? You can never stop, so what do
we need to change within those programs? Apprenticeships is one that
we have seen more and more individuals are signing up for, so we’re
expanding it and expanding where they are. We launched the KY FAME
program, which is the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education,
we have a Talent Pipeline Management program that we work on with
our Chamber of Commerce, we create clusters of industries, such as
health care and metals, and they come together and talk about how we
can better prepare our workforce for their industries. We’ve really taken
groups that used to compete and brought them together so that we can Q: Now, the last question, and one of the more important questions
learn from them and then provide them with the best workers possible. I have, what position is the state of Kentucky in – in the U.S. – for
foreign direct investment? And how many foreign companies currently
operate and do business in the state Kentucky?
Q: The state’s work-ready community program has become one of
the most rigorous workforce certification programs in the nation, how A: It might surprise people, but there is a significant amount of foreign direct
has that happened? investment in Kentucky. More so than most states. We rank fifth nationally in
the percentage of workers who are employed by international companies.
A: We committed to it. Last year, we were number two in per capita We have 530 foreign-owned facilities that operate in Kentucky and they’re
economic development in the entire country with more new jobs coming from 33 different countries, and 114,000 of my fellow Kentuckians are
in all parts of Kentucky, not just to a couple big cities. We were number employed at those facilities. And when you look at the largest foreign
three in the country in what they call micropolitan – or rural – economic direct investment nations, Japan leads the way with over 200, Germany
development, so we want each one of our communities to be able to is second with 83, France has 41, Canada with 35, the United Kingdom
thrive in every single area. So, we created this certification program with with 29. When you look at 2021 – our best year, to give a snapshot – we
six different rigorous areas so that every community could take a look created 9,719 new full-time jobs from foreign direct investment, that was
at where they are and where they need to be. We believe that it is both close to half of our total that year and $8 billion dollars in new private
aspirational and practical at the same time and allows us to provide help investment came from foreign direct investment. So, to the world, we’re
on the state level to communities that are hungry and to make sure they open for business. We will ensure that you are successful. When you
build out everything that they need to be successful. come to Kentucky, you create long-lasting and long-term relationships.

13. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

that have a military installation located within world. Our firm is working with many of these firms based products to alternative products, such
the community. Some projects are also looking that are looking in sustainable economic systems as meat marinades and special grown spices.
for flex-space and unrecognized space in light such as the Virgin Islands, Dominica Republic, There is an increase in companies looking to
industrial parks to keep the security levels low and Colombia. produce or manufacture end products for the
for their activities. consumer, but most of them are requesting more
VALUE ADDED AGRIGULTURAL SECTORS and more capital for their move to new markets.
One of the major issues is that this sector is
having a tremendous time finding the correct With the continued demand in sustainable food WRAP-UP
labor force supply for this sector. Job descriptions around the world. Our firm has seen an increase of
for this sector include: Entry-level Cyber Security 92% value added agricultural projects. We mainly There are many other projects that see increased
Analysts ranging from $62,000 to $87,00 find that many FDI projects are being affected activity, but we feel that the mentioned sectors
and IT Specialists ranging from $90,000 to by the constant supply chain issues between the will be the most productive for 2023 and
$200,000 per year. These positions need highly East and the West. Many projects looking for beyond. Some projects will not be creating large
educated individuals and many communities new plants in North America are continuously quantities of primary jobs, however some will.
at the local level are not creating educational having difficulty with access to capital to move Our predictions are that countries, regions and
curriculums to accommodate this sector. their operations. Many communities should be communities that think of new ways to create
getting prepared to implement new creative economic incentives to provide a competitive
RENEWABLE ENERGY SECTORS financing vehicles for FDI projects. Webster edge over other areas will benefit compared to
Global Site Selectors is seeing all types of those that are still operating and thinking they
With the continued technological requirements of projects in this specific sector. From plant- are still in 2021.
the Technology Sector, there is a continued demand
for energy to be increases at expeditiously large
amounts. The sectors below are continuing to
have large demands in project activity. Our firm
has seen an increase in activity of 35%, since
2021. Many countries, regions and communities
should continue to attract these infrastructural
projects. These projects require large tracts
FUTURE OUTLOOK OF INDUSTRY SECTORS of land, existing utility-grid infrastructure, but
usually have small job creation per project.
Many countries, regions and communities are
TO THRIVE IN 2023 AND BEYOND focusing on industry specific incentives for these
renewable energy projects. Creativity of these
incentives will provide competitive advantages
for fulfilling these project needs.

Sitting back, looking at a globe today and Many of the jobs created in this sector will be As one notices, it is not the large automotive ■ Solar
visualizing what thriving industries will be on Business Intelligence Developers, Data Scientists, manufactures that will be enhancing their The Solar Industry is still seeing a continued increase
the horizon for site selection and economic Big Data Engineering and Research Scientists. expansions, but it is also the infrastructure of in activity in 2023 and will be increasing 20-30%

developers. My magnifying glass shows that The workforce and the wages for these positions the vehicles including the batteries and other for the next year, suggested by Bloomberg
the future sees an optimistic upswing with many will be over $125,000 per year. Along with AI for these vehicles. It is wise to begin building Intelligence. Many of the Solar projects are
sectors. These sectors, I believe, will be the next these jobs in this sector, many supportive jobs relationships with the Second and Third Tier looking for continued partnerships with utility
big expansions and or relocation opportunities will be needed to enhance the work of the AI suppliers of these major automotive industries, companies and communities who will not only
for 2023 and beyond. I will provide our insights industry. Will your country, region or community because with an increase of 85% of parts and help produce the energy but will also use the
on 3 industry sectors that may be of interest for be aligned with your educated workforce for supplies, these companies are either locating created energy within its own systems. Many
foreign direct investment and the site selection this rising sector? next to or in proximity (within 90 miles) of the communities are setting aside large tracts of land
and economic development process. major manufacturing of these vehicles. Many to facilitate these projects and providing special
Other factors we analyze for this sector include: of the Site Selectors have seen an increase of incentive packages related to this specific sector.
TECHNOLOGY SECTORS existing data center locations; Trunklines with about 75% for these projects within the last 14
large telecommunication band-with; existing months. I believe these companies will continue ■ Wind
This sector is so broad, but we at Webster Global temperate weather, very low electricity rates and to grow in 2023 and beyond. Capturing wind for energy is increasing too. Global
Site Selectors see that the fastest growing sectors access to capital. News Wire predicts that the increase in active
in this sector include: Artificial Intelligence (AI), ■ Cybersecurity projects will be approximately 9.4% for 2023. There
Automotive (EV) and Cybersecurity. ■ Automotive-Electric Vehicles (EV’s) Cybersecurity is another technology related are the traditional wind farms still being created
As we see, the Automotive (EV) sector is industry that is increasing substantially. Again, globally, however, there is an increase in ways to
■ Artificial Intelligence continuing to expand rapidly. In 2022 and the the workforce must be in place in countries, capture wind through other formats. One company, C. PAIGE WEBSTER, CECD
As we continue to see that Artificial Intelligence (AI) first Quarter of 2023, we have seen rapid growth regions, and communities to accommodate Accelerated Wind in Missouri, actually captures wind PRESIDENT, WEBSTER GLOBAL SITE SELECTORS

continuing to move in an upward momentum. in this sector. Some of the projects have included these projects. It is interesting that many of the in an apparatus the size of an air-conditioning unit
This sector has continued to rapidly grow, and the new Ford Billion Dollar EV Battery project decision makers for this sector are not always for industrial and retail structures. This company’s 602-621-0576 [email protected]
we are seeing an increase of about 30% in in Michigan; the Zero Electric Vehicles to open relying on Site Selectors to find office space for product is a new and thriving invention. However,
our portfolio increasing requirements for site an HQ in Gilbert, Arizona and the LG Chem these expansions or relocations. Some of the it took capital to get the product to market. This www.globalsiteselectors.com
selection analysis for these projects. project in Clarksville, Tennessee. projects are looking in or around communities company will be expanding as the demand for
their product becomes more aware around the

14. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

become obsolete in their thriving industry. The organization needed to applications, and complex machinations working behind the scenes to
develop new products while embracing new technologies and service make our crooked roads straight.
models to increase margins and ensure profitability.
But if you can fix your people problems, the rest is easy.
Obviously, the performance requirements of his leadership team have
changed with the new regime, even with the same individuals on that team. Innovation and change go hand-in-hand, especially when it comes to
OPTIMIZING TALENT IN THRIVING INDUSTRIES Knowing what drives the behaviors of his team, measured against the fit, you can make better decisions, prevent burnout, and drive success
people. If you understand what makes your people tick to ensure the best
new performance requirements for each individual role, helped him through talent.
respond quickly, enabling him to change the trajectory of the organization.
If you want to retain your best people, you need to become a learning
We mapped the genome of his company using talent optimization organization, strengthen your talent development programs, increase
One of the reasons franchises exist is to grow in such a way that every When you’re thriving, it can also be hard to identity problem areas. Revenue analytics to establish the performance requirements for success in every employee engagement, and nip complacency in the bud.
store creates the same experience for every customer everywhere every hides a lot of sins. But it won’t be a fun place to work, and it will never position in the organization. And then, we matched the employees to
time. Starbucks makes great coffee. But it’s not a franchise. It adheres to reach its true potential if you lose what made it great- your best people. their existing roles. Only when your people are engaged will you be able to respond faster
strict standards for quality. And therein lies the tension between growth, to new business opportunities and threats, as well as increase the speed
scalability, and quality. What’s the one thing all businesses have in common? People. Strategies If I know where an employee is, versus where I need them to be, and I of workflow throughout your organization.
don’t execute themselves. understand what drives their behavior, I can help them close that gap in a way
Companies that thrive have secret formulas sacred to their brand that that’s comfortable and satisfying for them. On the warm and fuzzy side, it’s It all starts with clarity. When you create a culture of clarity, everyone
go beyond marketing and taglines. It’s the essence of what makes And thriving equals change. Change happens. It’s constant. New products, a better place to work. On the cold-hard-cash side, the business is achieving knows exactly what they are doing, why they are doing it, and who is
them great. Whatever it is that makes a Ferrari a Ferrari, every new markets, technologies, and trends emerge amid mergers, acquisitions, and new the results it needs and that employee is better able to stretch, grow, and learn. responsible for what.
model must embody it. Ferrari has doubled its production and sales regimes. How can we prepare an entire organization to respond to change? Which is crucial to hit maximum velocity during times of thriving change.
in the last decade by adding more models while keeping its exclusivity Clarity starts at the top, and it must be pervasive. The better you understand
and increasing quality. It all starts with understanding the individuals in your organization. If you It also makes it easier to map people’s future within the organization, your people, the more clarity you will have to accomplish your goals, while
can identify what drives their behavior, you can predict the performance which increases retention. Nothing derails a thriving company faster than minimizing the time and effort it takes to reach and maintain peak productivity.
Thriving isn’t just about getting bigger. It’s about getting better. You of your employees. turnover. The key to growth is retaining your best people while adding
start with something great, and technology can make it easy to top talent to your organization. Managing the workforce of a thriving company requires innovation. The
scale quickly. It can also make it easy to scale poorly. Speed must If you map your organization’s functions and positions to have accurate innovation needed most is clarity. Clarity is achieved through understanding
be balanced with precision or quality suffers. If quality suffers, you’ve knowledge of what is required to succeed in each role, you can predict If you’ve mapped your company’s genome, you can utilize talent optimization your people and using that data to inspire them. A high performing team
lost what makes you great. performance, respond to change, and prevent problems from emerging. analytics to ensure best fit as you grow and respond within a thriving industry. that can respond to change has limitless potential.

Hope needs to balance with logic. Hope inspires the belief needed to get Prevention was integral to why scientists mapped the human genome. When you’re thriving, the workplace is changing. Everyone is scrambling to People data (i.e.- talent optimization analytics) provides clarity, empowering
to the next level, while logic prepares for what will happen if you don’t With certain genetic markers identified, you can prevent bad things from ensure they aren’t left behind. Managers are like college football coaches, you to succeed in a thriving industry.
do it right. What got you here won’t always get you there. Especially happening. If you map your company’s genome by understanding what’s constantly adjusting to losing seniors and baptizing freshman. Now, more
when your industry is thriving and you’re experiencing massive growth. required to succeed in every role, you can position your organization to than ever, systems are required to create, sustain, and maximize a high
But that doesn’t mean you should abandon what got you here if that’s thrive during times of massive growth. performing culture. DAVID B. NAST
what makes you great. MANAGING PARTNER
I work with a client in a thriving industry who recently endured a regime- While technology, products, and services are constantly evolving, the one David uses artificial intelligence, workforce
If you’re going to add, you also need to take away. As you increase in size change. The founder retired. He was an endearing maverick who made constant in business is still people. So, if you’re going to put systems in analytics, and science-backed data to help
you should also increase in simplicity. Size can smother innovation, putting most decisions based on his intuition. He launched the company into new place to sculpt the fog of change, it makes sense to ensure those solutions businesses in their talent and execution
at risk what makes you great. When you’re thriving, if you continually markets and cared more about top-line revenue than bottom line profits. are anchored in your people. decisions.
add without also taking away, you risk burning out your employees and
creating turnover. And if they don’t leave, they can become disengaged. The new CEO answers to a board and, by extension, their stockholders. Remember, you can’t add without taking away. Simplicity is key. When we 888.332.0505 [email protected]
Without passion, it’s hard to be great. He inherited a company with policies and procedures that have quickly think of innovation, it calls to mind technical advancements, progressive

16. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

A FUTURE FORWARD VIEW INTO THE GLOBAL Healthcare: With an aging population and increasing demand for need for knowledge sharing and mitigating concerns and fears when it
healthcare services, the healthcare industry is expected to grow significantly comes to bio-tech, bio-pharma, and related industries.
MARKETPLACE OF OPPORTUNITIES in the coming years. In addition, advances in technology are creating new
opportunities for innovation in this industry. To say the senior care industry 3D Printing: 3D printing is already being used in a range of industries,
is growing is an understatement. People are living longer, and better, and including aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing. As this technology
there will be an ever-growing demand for products and services that meet continues to evolve, it is likely to create new opportunities for businesses
their needs and lifestyles, and support their longevity and quality of life. and consumers. What is happening with 3D printing is nothing short
What are future forward leaders focusing on in terms of industries that sources, which is likely to drive growth in this industry. The stakeholder of incredible- from medical devices to housing! This is an industry
are expected to thrive in 2023, and beyond, around the world? awareness and activism concerning climate change is growing around Virtual and Augmented Reality: Virtual and augmented reality technologies changing lives and it will only continue to be a growing force in the
the world and it is vital that enterprises of all spectrums be aware of the are already being used in a range of industries, including gaming, global marketplace.
I believe that there are some key areas to focus on as we head into a issues involved and prepared to make wise decisions as to how to move healthcare, and education. As these technologies continue to evolve,
world ever changed and changing in the aftermath of the COVID-19 forward in terms of investment, both philosophically and financially. they are likely to create new opportunities for businesses and consumers. Clean Water: The world is facing a growing water crisis, with millions
global pandemic, along with the exponential changes rocketing our The evolution in virtual technologies and the depth and breadth of their of people lacking access to clean water. Businesses that can provide
world from artificial intelligence and its escalating impact on all aspects Cybersecurity: With the increasing threat of cyber-attacks, cybersecurity is applications continues to expand at warp speed. It will be more and innovative solutions to this problem are likely to thrive in the coming
of the marketplace. becoming an increasingly important industry. Businesses and governments more important to stay aware of companies and industries, especially years. There is a huge new awareness of the imperative to seek new
are investing in technologies and services to protect their networks, data, in the medical field, that are investing in research and leading the way solutions to providing lifesaving clean water for those struggling with
Our research shows there are several industries that are likely to thrive and customers. The threats, risks, and potential crisis posed by cyber- in terms of advancements that will improve the quality of life for people environmental and infrastructure crisis situations across many nations.
in the immediate, near, and long term in the global marketplace. Here security criminals and are growing day by day. How prepared are you around the world. The industries that can step forward and provide solutions will continue
are some of them: and your business to handle the ramifications of an attack? On the other to gain impact and profitability.
hand, are you aware of the opportunities to invest in cyber preparedness, Smart Home and Internet of Things (IoT): Smart home devices and the
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning prevention, and response industries and research? This is an arena that Internet of Things (IoT) are becoming increasingly popular, and this trend is I believe we are the brink of unbelievable opportunities, and yes risks that
are already transforming various industries, including healthcare, finance, will only keep escalating in importance, impact, and potential rewards expected to continue. As more devices become connected to the internet, must be considered and prepared for, with the evolution of the global
retail, and transportation. As these technologies continue to advance, they are for those with a future-forward mindset and approach. businesses will need to develop new strategies to reach consumers and economy and business innovations unlike ever before in history.
expected to create new business models and opportunities for innovation. manage data. Development will also need to focus on privacy and security
AI and the exponential growth and evolution of all its incarnations brings E-commerce: Online shopping has been growing rapidly in recent years, issues, along with quality-of-life applications. The key is to stay informed, aware, prepared, and resilient as we move
with it immense new opportunities for improved efficiencies, productivity, and this trend is expected to continue. As more people adopt online forward into a brave new world.
and advancement. It also brings a huge new arena of issues and risks shopping, businesses will need to adapt to the changing landscape and Food and Agriculture: With the world’s population expected to reach 9.7
that must be addressed. From ethical, to legal, to emotional intelligence develop new strategies to reach consumers. Things to keep a keen eye on: billion by 2050, the food and agriculture industry is becoming increasingly RONNIE L. BRYANT
and preserving human capital, AI is a force we must delve into, become What are the strategies, tools, and technologies that are going to be important. Advances in technology, including precision agriculture and PRINCIPAL | RONNIE L BRYANT, LLC
knowledgeable about, and be prepared to deal with on any number of levels. evolving to meet the new consumer’s needs and demands? biotechnology, are creating new opportunities for innovation in this industry.
While there are huge advancements in terms of innovative farming and [email protected]
Renewable Energy: With concerns about climate change increasing, What companies are leading the pack in terms of understanding the new food manufacturing, and feeding people around the world, there is also
renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power are consumer marketplace, as well as establishing a unique value proposition opportunity for greater awareness and understanding of companies doing www.rlbryantllc.com
becoming increasingly important. In addition, governments around the and approach that connects with target audiences across the platforms impactful research which can be applied for broader impact. There is a 2215 Whitford Lane, Charlotte, NC 28210
world are providing incentives for businesses to adopt renewable energy they use and depend upon?

18. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

Healthcare: With an aging population and increasing demand for need for knowledge sharing and mitigating concerns and fears when it
healthcare services, the healthcare industry is expected to grow significantly comes to bio-tech, bio-pharma, and related industries.
in the coming years. In addition, advances in technology are creating new
opportunities for innovation in this industry. To say the senior care industry 3D Printing: 3D printing is already being used in a range of industries,
is growing is an understatement. People are living longer, and better, and including aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing. As this technology
there will be an ever-growing demand for products and services that meet continues to evolve, it is likely to create new opportunities for businesses
their needs and lifestyles, and support their longevity and quality of life. and consumers. What is happening with 3D printing is nothing short
of incredible- from medical devices to housing! This is an industry
Virtual and Augmented Reality: Virtual and augmented reality technologies changing lives and it will only continue to be a growing force in the
are already being used in a range of industries, including gaming, global marketplace.
healthcare, and education. As these technologies continue to evolve,
they are likely to create new opportunities for businesses and consumers. Clean Water: The world is facing a growing water crisis, with millions
The evolution in virtual technologies and the depth and breadth of their of people lacking access to clean water. Businesses that can provide
applications continues to expand at warp speed. It will be more and innovative solutions to this problem are likely to thrive in the coming
more important to stay aware of companies and industries, especially years. There is a huge new awareness of the imperative to seek new
in the medical field, that are investing in research and leading the way solutions to providing lifesaving clean water for those struggling with
in terms of advancements that will improve the quality of life for people environmental and infrastructure crisis situations across many nations.
around the world. The industries that can step forward and provide solutions will continue
to gain impact and profitability.
Smart Home and Internet of Things (IoT): Smart home devices and the
Internet of Things (IoT) are becoming increasingly popular, and this trend is I believe we are the brink of unbelievable opportunities, and yes risks that
expected to continue. As more devices become connected to the internet, must be considered and prepared for, with the evolution of the global
businesses will need to develop new strategies to reach consumers and economy and business innovations unlike ever before in history.
manage data. Development will also need to focus on privacy and security
issues, along with quality-of-life applications. The key is to stay informed, aware, prepared, and resilient as we move
forward into a brave new world.
Food and Agriculture: With the world’s population expected to reach 9.7
billion by 2050, the food and agriculture industry is becoming increasingly RONNIE L. BRYANT
important. Advances in technology, including precision agriculture and PRINCIPAL | RONNIE L BRYANT, LLC
biotechnology, are creating new opportunities for innovation in this industry.
While there are huge advancements in terms of innovative farming and [email protected]
food manufacturing, and feeding people around the world, there is also www.rlbryantllc.com
opportunity for greater awareness and understanding of companies doing
impactful research which can be applied for broader impact. There is a 2215 Whitford Lane, Charlotte, NC 28210

19. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

STATE OF

ARIZONA

GOVERNOR KATIE HOBBS

Pennsylvania borders Delaware, Maryland, West The infrastructure in Pennsylvania offers movement Manufacturing PA Industrial Resource Centers
Virginia, Ohio, New York, New Jersey as well as of goods via port to rail or truck. The state is becoming which are state funded. The purpose of the
Lake Erie and the Canadian province of Ontario. It is one of the most energy efficient production regions. Resource canters is to introduce small and
also known as the keystone state, is a state spanning There is an integrated network of 120,000 miles medium-sized manufacturers to new business
the Mid-Atlantic, North-eastern and Appalachian of interstate highways, 64 modern freight railroads processes.
regions of the United States. and 6 international airports. The state provides
access to three major ports that provide deep Another major industry that is worth mentioning,
There are many programs available for international water, inland and Great Lakes as well as access for is the agricultural industry. Some of the top
funding, grants, loans and tax credits. There international importing and exporting. products in this industry are dairy products,
are many different agencies in the business cattle and calves, greenhouse and nursery
development area. They work together with the Pennsylvania has three major ports. These include, products, mushrooms and chicken eggs.
Governor’s Action Team (GAT) for developing a the ports of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Erie. There Over half of mushrooms farmed in the U.S.
financial incentives program. The Pennsylvania are over 67 million tons of goods moved through come from Pennsylvania. With a ranking of
Office of International Business Development its ports and a ranking of 12th in the country for eighth in total milk production nationally, there
has customizable services to help international volume. The three ports have a combined economic are over 10 billion pounds of milk produced
companies looking to locate or expand their benefit of nearly $50 billion. annually.
business. Some of the services available include:
helping with setting up a U.S. business entity, Also offered is a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) program Comcast, AmerisourceBergen, Aramark, Dick’s
identifying and visiting business sites, workforce which helps improve competitive placement by the Sporting Goods, Air Products and Chemicals,
and financial assistance through grants, low reduction of cost of U.S. operations. This program PPG Industries, Crown Holdings, Rite Aid,
interest loans, tax credits as well as job training. also allows delayed or reduced duty payments on PNC Financial Services, Lincoln national and
foreign merchandise. Wawa are a few of the largest companies in
There are over 5,200 foreign owned firms that have Pennsylvania. One of the largest employers in
business operations within the state of Pennsylvania. Workforce development offers financial and the state is the University of Pittsburgh medical
A few of the countries that are leading in foreign technical assistance for employers. To help with centre. It operates 40 academic, community
investment are the United Kingdom, Germany, business development, the state offers locally based and specialty hospitals, 700 doctor’s offices and
France, Switzerland, Canada and Japan. technical assistance in grants. Also available is the outpatient sites.

20. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

21. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

ࣿ Tony where is the City of Sierra Vista quality of life initiatives including a $26 Arizona, manufacturing, and international
located? What is the population of the million City investment in our parks and sports trade. For relocating tech-based startups, a
City? complexes. By changing the environment partnership with the University of Arizona’s
Located in Southeastern Arizona a little in these areas, we expect to realize unique Innovation Center will give the firms the
over an hour south of Tucson, Sierra Vista results in economic development that will opportunity to advance their company while
is home to over 45,000 residents who bring new jobs, visitors, and dollars to being sponsored by the City and the Industrial
enjoy mountain views and a mild climate Sierra Vista. With the third longest runway in Development Authority.
at 4,500 feet in elevation. The surrounding Arizona the municipal airport offers a unique What are the top 4 industry sectors
community exceeds 75,000 people and business opportunity taking advantage of the ࣿ
in the City of Sierra Vista? which sectors
includes the US Army’s Fort Huachuca, home mild climate with air operations available do you see rapidly growing in 2023
to the Intelligence Center of Excellence, 310-330 days a year. and beyond?
Network Enterprise Command, world class Briefly describe the programs and
electronic warfare ranges, and unmatched ࣿ Aviation is one industry leveraging the
incentives in place to assist company
airspace supporting testing and training for start-ups and business expansion. opportunity at the municipal airport, which
the Department of Defense. I mentioned is a key driver for us, and the
On the West End of the City, the Sierra mission of unmanned aerial training on
ࣿ What is the primary focus and Vista City Council has approved an infill Fort Huachuca with those personnel within
objective in the City of Sierra Vista? district to allow an expedited permitting the community. Cybersecurity, another key
and waiver process, as well as a matching industry sector, is supported by the University
The Economic Objectives for the City are
focused on our key drivers: Fort Huachuca grant program for redevelopment and new of Arizona’s College of Applied Science and
and it’s expanding missions to meet the construction. Sierra Vista and a majority of Technology, which is a Center of Academic
needs of our future forces, increased tourism Cochise County have access to Foreign Trade Excellence in Cyber Operations, a National
and retail from Mexico, a downtown street Zone 139. Finally, the City has partnered Security Agency (NSA) designation only
redevelopment, maximizing the municipal with the Arizona Commerce Authority to achieved by 22 cybersecurity programs
airport and its 12,001-foot runway, and offer additional incentives supporting rural in the U.S. Additionally, Cochise College
offers an Associate of Applied Science
program validated by NSA. Next I would
say we see growth potential in the defense
and intelligence sector, with Fort Huachuca
designating the east range complex for 1LT
John R. Fox supporting the multidomain
operations across the electromagnetic
spectrum to address modernization efforts
for the Army. Finally, I would say that our
medical industry is well poised for growth as
well. Canyon Vista Medical Center, under
the direction of a new CEO, is focused on
attracting top talent and providing care that
rivals that found in other larger hospitals.
The hospital was recently awarded a 4-star
CMS rating and made headlines for its
addition of a state-of-the-art surgical robot.
The city has recently seen construction of a

22. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

cited that residents pay 11.2% less than the
national average for goods and services.

ࣿ Tony what can we expect to see
from the City of Sierra Vista in the next
12 months? Can you tell us about any
upcoming projects
Mission growth on Fort Huachuca in areas
such as the LT Fox multidomain range
bringing additional units for testing and
training along with their vendors. A couple
of significant moves on the educational front
will see additional growth in Cochise College
and UofA College of Applied Science and
Technology with an opportunity for additional
partnerships with business and workforce.
We have been working with a couple of firms
looking to relocate to the municipal airport
new surgical center, an expanded state of entrepreneurial led initiatives in growth and and we expect to see development there in
the art dental facility, and new behavioral would also welcome more diversification of the next 12 months. The City, in partnership
health facilities. our industries in the form of new development with our Industrial Development Authority,
or redevelopment. Sierra Vista offers the Sierra Vista Area Chamber of Commerce,
ࣿ Tony, what key factors make the benefits of a smaller community with an and the University of Arizona Center for
City of Sierra Vista a great location for advanced workforce with mild climate and Innovation, will be kicking off a tech-based
business, focus on skilled workforce, low cost of living. incubator in Sierra Vista. With provided office
quality of life and a simplified tax system. space from the IDA and sponsorship by the
Education and Fort Huachuca. ࣿ Where would you like to see more City, startups in the area or those willing to
We have terrific educational partners with international investment coming from relocate will be able to participate at no cost
University of Arizona and Cochise College in the City of Sierra Vista? within the incubator for up to the first year.
along with a highly educated workforce We are only a short drive from the federally The City and our partners are committed
on Fort Huachuca and across our military funded new port of entry in Douglas, Arizona, to supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem
community. They offer tremendous capability positioned to support that significant growth to attract and grow startups in Sierra Vista.
and workforce development to our community. between Arizona and Sonora Mexico in Finally, the City’s latest investments in quality
Our hospital, Canyon Vista Medical Center, the coming years. A second area would be of life amenities and programs will come
recently earned an award of four stars aviation linked to the municipal airport that to fruition in the coming year with facilities
for overall hospital quality and serves as the City Council has focused on to drive unmatched for a community our size.
the regional medical center for Cochise diversification for the community. Finally, I
County. The City is committed to increasing do see the potential for foreign investment
the quality of life with improved events and in the tech spaces such as virtual reality/
infrastructure such as world-class sports augmented reality, which both Cochise
fields and event spaces, which have seen College and University of Arizona College
dramatic improvements in recent years. The of Applied Science and Technology support
City’s recreational amenities include the only with academic programs.
indoor pool with a wave machine in southern
Arizona, offering a unique opportunity for ࣿ How affordable is the cost of living
families. Sierra Vista is surrounded by outdoor in the City of Sierra Vista compared TONY BOONE
activities available year-round such as biking with other cities in Arizona and the
in a Bronze-level bicycle community, hiking, United States? ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
birding, and many wide-open spaces to The Sierra Vista area was ranked as the 3rd MANAGER
explore. Sierra Vista boasts extraordinary most affordable housing market in the United
skies and uncommon ground with a strong States by the National Association of Home M
commitment to dark skies and protecting Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity 1011 N. Coronado Drive
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
the environment. City Council has focused Index in November of 2021. While larger N
on keeping our taxes low with one of the metropolitan areas in the state saw a decline (520) 439-2157
lowest overall tax burdens within Arizona, in affordability with shares of affordable homes e
which enacted a historic tax reform package lingering around 60% and below, the share [email protected]
d
last year. of affordable home in the Sierra Vista area www.SierraVistaAZBusiness.com
was nearly 93%. Sierra Vista also boasts
ࣿ How important is diversification in an average household median income that
contributing to the strength of the Sierra is higher than the national average, which,
Vista economy?
when coupled with the fact that over 75%
Diversification has been a key area for of residents spend less than 30% of their
the City for several years as we are and income on housing, makes for an attractive
will remain a military community but there cost of living situation. Additionally, Business
are also opportunities for growth in other Insider identified Sierra Vista as one of the
areas. We are looking forward to cultivating best cities to live in post pandemic and

23. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

FDI ACTIVITITY IN 2023

LOOK TO THE CHALLENGES AND YOU WILL FIND THE OPPORTUNITIES

As we now know, there is no crystal ball to predict world events. Nothing Small will be the new “big” and it is important that economic development
is certain in these uncertain times, especially when you factor a global organizations stop chasing big job numbers and start chasing big ideas.
pandemic, Russian military aggression, and Earth wielding her merciless According to data presented by the German American Chamber of
power in Turkey and Syria. Commerce of the Southern U.S., 93% of German companies participating
in their survey indicated that they would be expanding their operations
Despite massive disruptions, there are some trends emerging from this in North America.
new status quo that give us our north star in the next generation of fast-
growing industries. ENERGY WILL BE BIG, REALLY BIG
It is safe to say that if mankind is experiencing pain points, the areas inflicting
Industries such as Technology, Energy, Life Sciences, and Agricultural the most disruption will need to be growth areas. Energy has become a
and Water Tech, will emerge as global focuses. All industries will strive to global challenge, driven by nations demanding energy independence.
innovate and evolve to find their place in the new world order, but these The War in Ukraine has driven home the reality that to ensure national
sectors, by necessity, will outpace the rest.
security, nations must fulfill their own energy requirements through reliable,
green energy.
Technology will underpin everything we do and touch in every industry
and field. Quantum computing, AI, and automation, to name a few, will Renewables, small-scale nuclear, battery technology, hydrogen, and
be woven into virtually every aspect of the global economy as companies technologies that enhance energy efficiency will be the standouts of the
look to continually innovate and optimize.
global economy in the next decade, driven by the fact that many countries
have committed to ambitious net zero deadlines that are fast approaching.
2023 will also see the rise of SME’s, or the Mittlestand, as small to mid- The energy industry is experiencing incredible growth and diversification
sized companies fuel economies and take on the challenges of the future.
and will continue to do so for decades to come.

24. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

The world has no dearth of crises, but the most impactful challenges will
LIVE LONG AND PROSPER
greatly influence the growth of certain industries. Energy, Life Sciences,
Life Sciences is an area where any jurisdiction with a robust university and Water Tech will be at the forefront of this global economic revolution
research ecosystem should double down. Rapid growth in this sector and will drive innovation and corporate expansions at a faster rate than
will be driven by small and medium sized companies as pharma giants ever before experienced.
lean into acquisitions more often than their own R&D efforts. This in
turn will underscore the need for regional economies to support their
start-up ecosystems and facilitate connections between universities and
the private sector.

Driving growth and diversification in the Life Sciences sector is the fact
that medical care is becoming increasingly accessible, with more people
than ever around the world now having the means and opportunity to
receive healthcare. Drug discovery, therapeutics, medical devices, and
other sub-sectors dedicated to human health and well-being will continue
to grow at rapid pace.

GOING TO THE SOURCE

Water, water, water: another global pain point that is becoming more
problematic with the onset of climate change and a growing global SHIRAR O’CONNOR
population. When you consider that there are more people alive on Vice President of Marketing, AdvanceCT
the planet today than in the entire history of mankind, you can begin to Shirar O’Connor is an economic development
comprehend the challenges we face in maintaining adequate supplies of professional working with national, regional,
potable water. Filtering systems, desalinization systems, and technologies and local governments from around the world.
that help manage, conserve, cleanse, and maintain water supplies will
be driving forces in tomorrow’s economy. The global Water Crisis is so +1 646 496 7668
severe, that over 25% of the people in the world are impacted by a variety [email protected]
of fresh water issues ranging from shortages to cleanliness.
Shirar O’Connor-Mugler

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STATE OF

INDIANA

GOVERNOR ERIC HOLCOMB

Indiana is a Midwestern U.S. state known for its withholdings generated from new jobs creation. one of the top states for regulatory freedom, and
farmland and renowned auto race, the Indianapolis The credit certification is phased in annually for up we’re defining a new standard of opportunity for
500, held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. In to 10 years based upon the employment ramp-up businesses to reach their full potential.
the capital, Indianapolis, theaters and galleries line outlined by the business.
Massachusetts Avenue. The city’s Downtown is The bottom line is Indiana is building economic
home to the iconic Soldiers and Sailors Monument, Indiana’s infrastructure ranks second in the nation strength and impetus, and it’s propelling us on a
the Canal Walk promenade and the Indianapolis according to CNBC’s Ranking of America’s Top trajectory toward growth and prosperity. How by
Museum of Art and its wide-ranging collections. States for Business 2018. get started laying the groundwork to help your
business grow in Indiana.
Indiana offers many business tax incentives, Indiana is Top 5 in the U.S. for business according to
corporate tax credits and economic development Chief Executive magazine, 2018. Indiana continue expansion of early childhood
programs for companies creating new jobs and education for low income families: The state
investment. Business tax structure is also very Indiana’s Bond Rating has been ranked at AAA should continue to expand its pre-K pilot
competitive. Indiana’s corporate income tax is according to Standard & Poor’s, Fitch and Moody’s program and make it available to more children
decreasing from the current 6.5% to 4.9% by 2021. Credit Rating. throughout Indiana. In a period of economic
As the decrease is phased in, the tax rate will drop growth when the state has more revenue to invest
each year. Indiana has a flat state corporate tax rate At a time when other states are raising taxes to keep in key initiatives, the time is right to expand pre-K.
on adjusted gross income and no gross receipts up with mounting state debt, Indiana’s long history
tax or inventory tax. Select from our menu below to of smart fiscal choices, balanced state budgets and Indiana is a state that works because it’s about
learn more. cash reserves in a rainy-day fund puts the Hoosier more than just good business sense. It’s about
State in a position to actually lower taxes. Indiana’s building something that will last. It’s about the
The Economic Development for a Growing corporate income tax rate is steadily decreasing freedom to set their own terms. It’s about the
Economy (EDGE) Tax Credit provides an incentive each year, from the current 6.5% to 4.9% by 2021. place they call home. Indiana draws its strength
to businesses to support jobs creation, capital Indiana spent years adopting sound fiscal policies, from vibrant cities and towns, beautiful state
investment and to improve the standard of living and today they are one of only a handful of U.S. parks and trails, a bold history of sport and
for Indiana residents. The refundable corporate states with a AAA credit rating and an actual budget culture, and some of the most amazing people
income tax credit is calculated as a percentage surplus. With lowering business taxes this year, next you’ll ever meet who are delivering craft, passion
(not to exceed 100%) of the expected increased tax year, and every year after that through 2021. We’re and brilliance to Indiana.

28. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

“The more things change, the more things The companies also knew the local business Teijin Automotive Technologies is a full-
stay the same.” The concept of this quote climate was on their side. service, design-responsible supplier to the
was credited to a French journalist in 1849. automotive and transportation industries,
In many respects, the theme is as relevant Highlighting the major investments were those creating lightweight, advanced composite
today as it was during the time it was first made by Teijin Automotive Technologies, materials to produce Class A closures,
written. Novae Corporation, and Sortera Alloys, in pickup boxes, EV battery carriers, structural
the manufacturing arena. Geenex Solar components and more. They are continuously
Regardless of inflation, political, or societal and Maple Solar also chose Huntington working to find new ways to support the
change, or other dynamics, the basic notion County for renewable energy projects. automotive industry’s efforts to create more
of “doing economic development” really Since the pandemic, 32 companies have efficient and sustainable vehicles.
is the same as it has always been; working invested over a combined $330 million
systematically to preserve and enhance in Huntington County. Very simply, the The Community also conducted ribbon cutting
the economic vitality of a community’s industrial community of Huntington County, celebrations in 2022 for previous projects
economic base in order to improve the Indiana, is demonstrating its vitality in very by Ecolab and Promach’s Shuttleworth
standard of living for the people who live impressive ways. division. The Ecolab investment in Huntington
and invest there, to the exclusion of no one. includes new laboratory, manufacturing and
Thriving communities and industries never “Yes, we’re a traditional rural community distribution space. The company is working
stop reminding themselves of their strengths with traditional manufacturing opportunities; in more than 40 industries across more
and weaknesses and constantly find ways to however, we’ve learned to use those ideals than 170 countries to help promote safety,
improve. The more things change, the more as ‘launching pads’ not obstacles for our ensure operational efficiency, sustainability,
the effort continues with the same goals. next 175 years as a community,” said Mark product quality and consumer satisfaction.
Wickersham, executive director for the Ecolab sanitizing products are found around
Huntington, Indiana, is celebrating 175 years Huntington County Economic Development the world making restaurants and public
as a thriving community in northeast Indiana. Corporation. “Our employers understand buildings safer for us all.
It’s a bit of a “mouthful” but the anniversary their employees expect to be engaged and
is called a “Demisemiseptcentennial.” have a sense of ownership in order to be The Promach Shuttleworth investment cements
Regardless of any historical, changes or self-motivated and productive,” he added. a presence in Huntington dating back to the
challenges, Huntington remains a vibrant 1960s. The company is an engineering,
community. All of the efforts magnify the A collaboration involving the economic design and manufacturing powerhouse in
basics – people, partnering together to make development community, governmental, the materials handling industry, a sector
progress a reality! civic and area financial leaders resulted in ignited by consumer activity on the internet.
the acquisition of 172 acres for Huntington’s Society has become very dependent on
Thirteen employers in the industrial base of new Riverfork West Industrial Park. Lot #1, home delivery of a variety of products and
Huntington County, Indiana, committed to a tract of thirty acres, was acquired by Teijin Shuttleworth equipment provides distribution
investing over $234 million in the County Automotive Technologies, and their $110 companies, among other clients, state-of-
during 2022. Each company essentially million project is nearing completion. The the-art conveyor, sorting and packaging
committed to their own version of a mega- remaining acreage in the park is available and solutions to meet the market’s expectations.
project in Huntington County. Primarily, being marketed. “Only true teamwork could
they did so because of robust financial have made this possible,” Wickersham said. Sortera Alloys has leased a spec building and
opportunities in today’s marketplace. is completing improvements to the facility

30. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

benefitting from new high speed internet
communications infrastructure. Parkview
Huntington Hospital has repeatedly been
recognized among the top 100 hospitals in
the nation, and the community boasts of an
outstanding public education system.

The Huntington County Community School
Corporation serves as the single public
school system in the County, having
consolidated twelve smaller schools in the
1970s to maximize opportunities for students
and fiscal opportunities for the taxpayers.
The Huntington County Learning Center
and robotics club join STEM and other
programs in earning awards for excellence.
Huntington University offers award winning
programs in several disciplines including
occupational therapy, nursing, digital media
arts, accounting, agricultural and business
administration. The institution also has
recently announced a new major in electrical
engineering.

Those assets contribute to opportunities for
a wonderful quality of life in this northeast
Indiana county.
Yes, dramatic economic challenges are
everywhere, but Huntington County continues
the economic development process as always
and is attractive for anyone looking for a new
place to call home. “Our team believes in a
slight variation of that 1849 quote. It should
be, ‘The more things change, the same
becomes better’,” Wickersham concluded.

MARK WICKERSHAM
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
m
8 West Market Street
Huntington, IN 46750
n
Office: 260-356-5688
at the Markle Industrial Park in Huntington the “American Dream.” Started by three Cellular: 260-388-3939
County at I-69, exit 286. Sortera brings brothers in their garage, Novae has grown
artificial intelligence, image/data analytics, to become a North American leader in the e
and advanced sensors to the industrial design, manufacturing and distribution of [email protected]
scrap metal recycling and re-use industry. utility trailers, with facilities in nine States d
Their disruptive technology drives new in the U.S. www.hcued.com
paradigms and boosts the strength of the
circular economy. These are just a few examples of the current
industrial picture in Huntington, Indiana.
Novae Corporation recently broke ground for
an additional 150,000 square feet to include The Community also boasts a robust housing
automated manufacturing and assembly of market, with multiple single-family homes
various types of light weight utility trailers. under construction and market-rate loft
The Company’s history is truly reflective of apartments in downtown Huntington, all

31. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

OUTRUNNING THE BEAR

There is an old joke about two hikers in the woods who notice a bear OUTRUNNING OUR SELF: THE FILET-O-FISH STORY
charging toward them. The first hiker hastily removes his trail boots and
puts on his running shoes. In the early 1960’s a majority of the population of Cincinnati, Ohio was
Catholic. A dictate from the church meant no meat could be consumed on
The second hiker nervously laughs and says, “Why bother changing out Fridays. As a result of this precept, Cincinnati area McDonald’s franchise
of your boots? You can’t outrun a bear.” owner Lou Groen saw hamburger sales plummet each week.

The first hiker replies, “I don’t have to outrun the bear. I only have to Witnessing this discouraged Groen and he recognized the very real
outrun you.” possibility of the business failing because of it. He became increasingly
desperate. But, rather than simply doing nothing, Lou began to think.
To thrive in business, we must outrun the competition. Otherwise the Being Catholic himself, Groen knew that fish was not considered by the
bear will catch us. This metaphorical bear is, of course, any threat to the church to be meat. Since protein was a staple part of every meal in that
health of our business. era, Catholics ate a lot of fish on the last day of the work week. Doing his
best to not completely reinvent the wheel, he considered the ingredients
Sometimes these threats come like a bolt out of the blue. More often, he had on hand.
however, they are like a developing hurricane. They can be plainly seen
on the radar long before they become an existential danger. We have Knowing McDonald’s customers had come to expect sandwiches served
ample warning. But, far too often business leaders discount or ignore quickly he invented the fish sandwich we now know as the Filet-O-Fish.
the threat until it is too late. It was the first non-hamburger sandwich ever served in McDonald’s.
But, there was a problem. Serving anything other than the items prescribed
The list of brands that were once market leaders and now only exist in by McDonald’s corporation violated his franchise agreement. When the
memories is extensive. Kodak, Blockbuster Video, Pan American Airlines CEO Ray Kroc found out about Groen serving a non-approved menu
and many others were business icons that seemed invincible. They weren’t. item he was livid! He told Groen to cease and desist immediately. Lou
Technological changes, complacent management and, more recently, the pushed back and said without a meatless option to serve on Fridays he
global pandemic have all been the cause of business failure. was out of business.
Outside threats are ever present. Awareness of these is essential. More Kroc, while having learned the value of each McDonald’s running the
difficult to see is an equal or perhaps larger threat. Our existing paradigms. exact same way, still was open minded. He made Groen a deal. Kroc

32. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

himself came up with a meatless sandwich called The Hula Burger. It This same method can be applied to turning a service into a product.
was a slice of grilled pineapple served with cheese on a cold bun. In a If you are the seller of a service, ask similar questions with the goal of
limited test, they would offer both and see which consumers preferred. creating a product from your service.
It wasn’t even close! The Filet-O-Fish outsold The Hula Burger nine to one.
Humbled by this but recognizing opportunity, Kroc congratulated Groen GOOD TIMES, BAD TIMES
and said McDonald’s would now offer the Filet-O-Fish in every location.
There is a human tendency toward becoming comfortable when something
works. After all, as the old saying goes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Today,
YOUR K.E.I. TO INNOVATION
that ‘way we’ve always done it’ complacency can be a killer. Others are
When my clients ask me how I am able to continuously come up with such looking to break you. So, preempt them by breaking yourself and figuring
incredibly unique, profit-enhancing ideas and strategies I tell them I have out how to do it better.
the key. However, the letters in my key are K, E, and I. Those stand for
Knowledge, Experience and Imagination. You can use this K.E.I. as well. The pace of breakage has hit warp speed. Consider this. Netflix took
Below is one method which you can apply to stimulate your imagination. 3.5 years to reach one million users. Facebook took ten months. Spotify
When aroused, your imagination breathes new life into your experience hit seven figures in five months. The recently launched ChatGPT hit one
and knowledge. It helps you to configure them in new ways and see million users in five DAYS!
possibilities and opportunities that were previously invisible.
I often advised my children to keep an umbrella at hand even on sunny
As A Service days. I told them, ‘it is better to have it and not need it than need it and
As a Service is a simple creative thinking method which you can use to not have it’. So it is with using creative thinking. Those organizations that
uncover new ways of serving customers and generating cash flow. thrive in our hyper-paced economy will continuously look at every aspect
of their business through an innovative lens. The best way to do this is to
Here is how it works: utilize defined creative thinking methods in what I call Disruption Sessions.
Make a list of all your product offerings and add the phrase ‘as a service’ These need to be held on a regular schedule - in good times and bad.
to it. Then, consider ways each product could be made into a service. This practice will create an abundance of ideas you can develop. You
Microsoft did this with their best-selling Office Suite and it transformed may never need them. But, isn’t it better to have them and not need them
that segment of their business. Their as-a-service model, known as Office than need them and not have them?
365, converted what had been a one-time sale which only occurred every
few years into a predictable ongoing stream of revenue. The bear is always in pursuit. Using this and other creative thinking
methods I write about is like having that pair of running shoes the hiker
Though they may not have specifically used this method, Uber and Lyft in this article’s opening had. They will help you outrun your competition
in effect used Transportation in Private Vehicles As A Service to create an without breaking a sweat.
entirely new market in the sharing economy.

In using this method, do not limit your application of it to existing BOB SAGER
products you offer. Ask yourself what related products are available in
the marketplace that might be a natural fit for your existing customer base. FOUNDER, SPEARPOINT
SOLUTIONS, LLC
Questions to help you see even farther:
• In what ways could making this a service add so much value that
it would be disruptive? [email protected]
• In what ways could this add value to customers that they aren’t
receiving now from us or our competition?
• What value-add could be applied to enhance the attractiveness of www.spearpointonline.com
becoming a subscriber or user?

33. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

world’s greatest innovations have been born in times of great economic 2021. And provisional data for 2022 shows that trend is being upheld
and political stress,”she says. with a total 811 projects in the period from January to October. The US
was the main destination for renewables FDI in 2022.
IT’S ALL ABOUT AI
“A key sector to combat inflationary utility prices and help achieve the UN
Artificial intelligence is revolutioning every industry and to the extent it is also
an industry in its own right, it counts as the most important. When studying Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), renewable energy FDI is finally
where FDI is headed, looking at hiring patterns is as good a clue as any, seeing the breakthrough that has been on the horizon for several years,”
and numbers reveal AI jobs are the most in demand globally. Companies says Investment Monitor chief economist Glenn Barklie. “Companies
are hiring for AI jobs at record rates. The AI industry will be worth $93bn are becoming much more aware of their records on sustainability.
in 2023, up 12% from 2022, according to research firm GlobalData. With environmental, social and governance goals a key topic for many
companies in their annual report filings, it is good to see greenfield
investment in sectors relevant to the SDGs rise by 39% in 2021.”
Digital technologies are also changing the business of investment
promotion itself as well as corporate site selection. The digitalization
of investment promotion — already under way for quite some time For their part, economic developers are increasingly prioritizing investments
— was accelerated by the pandemic with the use of AI and such tools that support net-zero aims. This sits within a broader adoption in the
as geographic information systems (GIS) and virtual reality gaining in FDI industry of environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards.
popularity as economic development organizations increasingly rely on Investment promotion agencies the world over are now linking their FDI
virtual methods of investment promotion. Such approaches are more targets to the meeting of ESG standards and efforts to achieve the SDGs.
common in the US, where corporate site selectors are highly receptive
to them, but other parts of the world are moving in the same direction. THE GREAT GLOBAL GIGAFACTORY COMPETITION
Gigafactories are a major new driver of FDI and are among the most
RENEWABLE ENERGY REMAINS HOT highly sought after investment projects by economic developers due to
Renewable energy saw project numbers grow 36% in 2021 and is now the the large job numbers they create, big dollar-values attached to them and
eighth-largest FDI sector. Renewable energy is a principal FDI industry of green credentials they connote. The good news for economic developers
the present and future, as countries worldwide pursue net-zero initiatives. keen to attract them is there are more and more gigafactories coming
Wind and solar are particularly popular and look to drive the continued on stream in the years to come.
growth of investment in the industry.
Global gigafactory capacity is set to explode this decade. Research
According to Investment Monitor, FDI into greenfield renewables and company GlobalData predicts cumulative total capacity to increase from
approximately 1500MWh to surpass 3000MWh in 2025 and 4000MWh
alternative power projects has grown by 40% in the period between
FDI INDUSTRIES OF THE FUTURE 2019 and 2021, going from 444 projects worldwide in 2019 to 789 in by 2030, with up to $177bn being invested in gigafactories worldwide

It has been a turbulent few years for foreign direct investment (FDI) and as well as continued data centre constructions. It is the second-largest
it does not appear that the situation will stabilize in the short to medium FDI sector in pure numbers, behind software and computer services.
term. Just when global FDI flows were bouncing back from their Covid
19-led crash, geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties and other Large-scale layoffs by tech companies globally in recent months suggests
disruptive factors intervened to threaten the rebound. The fortunes of expansion activity by tech giants will slow down, but technology will
FDI are tied to the global economic recovery, as FDI volumes closely continue to underpin FDI both as a driver and enticement for investment.
correlate with GDP growth. Since the advent of hybrid and remote working, ICT infrastructure sits
at or near the top of any investor’s list of location attributes. “The old
Global greenfield FDI levels returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2021 (the equations of location choice parameters are suddenly becoming obsolete.
latest year that final figures are available), with project numbers growing A large pool of sufficiently qualified labour — now a key determining
by 18%, according to the Global FDI Annual Report 2022 from Investment factor — will probably become irrelevant, hence also proximity to cities
Monitor, a UK-based publisher which tracks cross-border greenfield and public infrastructure,” says Dr Martin Kaspar, head of corporate
investment, defined as the setting up of physical on-the-ground facilities development at a mid-sized German component-maker. “A 5G-data
by a company in a country outside its home base or the expansion of handling infrastructure, however, will be key.”
an existing such facility. Of the 34 FDI sectors tracked, 26 saw growth in
2021 from the previous year. The strongest-performing sectors in terms The leading technology trends in 2023 will revolve around AI, cloud,
of growth were communications/media and renewable energy. cybersecurity, the metaverse, crypto, robotics, IoT and quantum computing,
and all have significant implications for FDI, according to Lara Williams,
New technological developments and remote working have fuelled a managing editor of tech publication Verdict.
post-pandemic boom in tech-related FDI. According to the report, FDI
projects in communications and media FDI nearly doubled year-on-year, “Despite political and economic uncertainty in 2023, technology investment
thanks to a surge of 5G projects, points of presence and edge locations is predicted to grow significantly, underlining a common belief that the

34. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

burned by the disruptions of Covid-19 look to minimize their reliance these umbrella groups sit digital technologies such as location detection
on China and as US companies bring operations back closer to home. technologies, 3D printing, smart sensors and advanced human-machine
interfaces, among others.
While the nearshoring growth is coming from a relatively low base, the
trend appears consistent with the growing appetite for more localized supply Increased use of automation is impacting labour-intensive industries and
between 2020 and 2030. The number of plants is set to more than double. new investment from EV-related projects, creating more than 8,500 new lines. Meanwhile, communities in the US can benefit from a twin trend of changing workforce requirements for global companies. The fourth industrial
These factories will be significantly larger than today and more dispersed. jobs. The state is establishing an expansive supplier network to serve the EV reshoring. In the next five years, reshoring and nearshoring will relocate revolution has meant that efficiency-seeking FDI (i.e. corporates chasing
market, including both existing and new companies to the commonwealth. up to 26% of world production, according to McKinsey Global Institute. low labour cost benefits) increasingly appears to be a thing of the past,
Key location criteria for gigafactory projects include: EV-related products being produced or announced in Kentucky include: says Kaspar. “Due to Industry 4.0 and the automation and robotisation
• A robust supply chain with upstream supplies of lithium as well as motors, battery components, structural products, assemblies, air springs, Mexico’s manufacturing boom is also boosting manufacturing north of the that comes with it, labour costs are increasingly not the key cost element
components rare-earth magnets and nanomaterials, among others. border, as components for advanced equipment including electronics and any longer, hence reshoring is becoming more of an option. Accordingly,
• Strong local and regional demand for finished products (encouraged medical devices are being made in Mexico and sent to factories in the US we are already seeing indications that the number of jobs being created by
by policies incentivizing the adoption of EVs and sufficient charging Another state seeking to parlay its already-strong presence in national and for final assembly. This is fuelling large demand for industrial premises, reshoring surpassed the number of jobs created by FDI in the US in 2020.”
infrastructure) international automotive supply chains into EV success is South Carolina. and major logistics players are rushing to build warehouses along the
• Recycling facilities to process batteries at the end of life The state hosts more than 500 automotive-related companies and 75,000 border in Texas and California and real estate investors take notice. Morgan Highly skilled workers are key to running smart factories and implementing
• Adequate electricity supply for manufacturing automotive industry employees and is ranked number one in the US Stanley said it is investing in industrial developments encompassing nearly successful 4.0 strategies, making training and educational programs key
• Subsidies and tax breaks as a sweetener for export sales of both completed passenger vehicles and tires. But it is 2 million square feet on the border, as just one example. to being competitive in the era of Industry 4.0 and beyond.
looking to become a leader in EV production and innovaton. The governor
China currently leads the global competition to attract gigafactories: it issued an executive order in October 2022 which prioritized building EV INDUSTRY 4.0 AT THE INTERSECTION
accounted for 65% of global gigafactory capacity as of 2020 compared infrastructure, training workers for advanced manufacturing jobs and
with 11% for North Amerca and 9% for Europe. But GlobalData predicts tasking a centralized state working group with EV strategy planning. The place where technological and production activity and the reshoring
that Europe and the US will cut into China’s share over the next several trend converge is Industry 4.0, which is reshaping the global manufacturing
years, with the US share expected to be 14% by 2030. SHORING UP SUPPLY CHAINS industry, redrawing the investment map and redefining site selection criteria.
Somewhat of a catch-all term, Industry 4.0 essentially involves the use of
Continuing supply chain disruptions, changing consumer patterns and the
If recent developments are anything to go on, however, these estimates the booming ecommerce industry is causing a wholesale reconfiguration of advanced technology in manufacturing, including cyber-physical systems,
may be lowballing the US’ gigafactory potential. The Inflation Reduction the Internet of Things, cloud computing and cognitive computing. Under
Act and the $400 million in clean-energy incentives it entails have made global value chains and redrawing the FDI map. Logistics and distribution
the US considerably and immediately more attractive as a location for EV centers will remain central to global FDI activity as a result.
production. Major automotive players including Hyundai, Honda, Tesla, COURTNEY FINGAR
Toyota and VW have announced plans to produce EVs or batteries in the Supply chain uncertainty is leading to increased interest in nearshoring, FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL, FINGAR DIRECT INVESTMENT
US since the act was passed in August 2022. opening up opportunities for locations close to major markets such as
the US to win production facilities. Data from Tradeshift, a cloud-based Courtney Fingar is founder and principal of Fingar Direct Investment, which advises investment promotioin
Currently in an aggressive internationalization phase to meet sales platform for supply chain payments and other transactions, indicates that agencies on strategic communications and marketing. A business editor with more than 20 years of experience
demand, Tesla is one of the most prolific creators of greenfield FDI projects activity across a number of nearshoring hotspots has risen at a far faster in media and FDI, she previously ran the Financial Times’ fDi Magazine and has been on assignment to
among any sector and is leading the gigafactory boom. pace than the global average. Activity in countries bordering the US appear more than 80 countries in her career.
to have risen at the fastest pace. Though Canada is also listed among the
Kentucky is among the states that have set their sights on becoming a nearshoring beneficiaries according to Tradeshift, Mexico in particular is www.fingar-di.com [email protected] (+44) 7506 586 986
leader in EV production and innovaton and has received $9.2 billion in benefitting from a widescale reorganization of supply chains as companies

36. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

STATE OF

IOWA

GOVERNOR KIM REYNOLDS

Iowa, its name derived from the Native American schools and continue in the workplace to ensure and universities offer a wealth of workforce
Ioway people who once inhabited the region, that opportunity lives here. resources.
became the 29th state in 1846. The Mississippi
River forms its entire eastern border, and the Iowa is a great place to do business. Manufacturing Home to nearly 6,800 finance and insurance
Missouri River and a tributary, the Big Sioux, form is strong, and the financial services sector is thriving. companies and a workforce of more than
the western border, making Iowa the only state with In a state with world-renowned research institutions 95,000 talented professionals, Iowa is one of
two parallel rivers defining its borders. It is bordered and robust innovation, Iowa bioscience companies the nation’s top headquarters for the finance and
by Minnesota to the north, Wisconsin and Illinois are at the forefront of breakthroughs in plant, animal insurance industries.
east, Missouri south, Nebraska and South Dakota and human bioscience industries. Iowa is a right to
to the west. work state with a low cost of doing business. The Iowa is the perfect place to expand, relocate or
state’s success may be partially because Iowa has start a financial services business. Iowa leads
According to U.S. News and World Report this year, a business climate that consistently ranks among with a pro-business mindset, a progressive and
Iowa is ranked as the number-one best state in the the best in the nation. Or, it could be the legendary responsive regulatory environment, and offers
nation. Our continued commitment to making Iowa Midwestern work ethic, the abundant raw materials one of the lowest insurance premium tax rates in
a great place for job-seekers, new business and or access to markets that makes companies prosper. the country — one percent.
education contributes to what makes Iowa the best
place to live in the U.S. Advanced manufacturing is Iowa’s largest industry, The state of Iowa is the perfect place to expand,
accounting for more than 17 percent of the state’s locate or start a business. The state’s pro-
Iowa’s greatest opportunity for economic growth total GDP. Nearly 6,000 manufacturers produce business policies, nationally recognized research
is to build a workforce that’s nimble, highly skilled everything from food products and medical devices centers and legendary Midwestern work ethic
and filled with lifelong learners. Today, we are to aerospace products and construction machinery. give businesses with an Iowa location a huge
experiencing a shortage of skilled workers across competitive edge. Those business advantages
every region of our state and all types of industries Iowa is perfectly positioned to export these products paired with a low cost of doing business, central
from manufacturing and skilled trades, to health around the globe, with a strong transportation location, abundant raw materials and efficient
care and information technology. But through network with access to air, water, rail and highway. In transportation infrastructure continue to fuel
dynamic public-private partnerships, we’ve addition, Iowa’s skilled talent pool and state-of-the- Iowa’s economy.
implemented innovative solutions that start in our art training and research programs at our colleges

38. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

GROWING AVIATION INDUSTRY

PEARSON ECONOMIC GROWTH ZONE INITIATIVE (PEGZI)

United Nations has predicted that by 2050 two thirds of the world Thus, these growing sectors overall show that mobility will be the very center
population will be living in urban communities. The one question we of creating economic prosperity. With majority of people living in urban
as economic developers need to ask ourselves is how can we create centers the demand for transportation, travelling and accommodation will
economic prosperity and respond to these expectations and increased go hand in hand. In today’s society, mobility by air is all about efficiency,
demands? With sustainable development being the most talked about speed, interconnectivity and accessibility. Aviation facilities experience a
subject out of the 2030 Agenda of Sustainable Development Goals growing demand for accessibility to countries and cities which creates a
(SDGs) also known as SDG 11. The SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and multi- layered set of priorities and expectation by travelers in regards to
Communities and SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth both their travel time, accommodations choices, safety and security to and
require the focus and attention of economic developers especially those from these facilities. This growing demand for air traffic has its own sets
working in spaces of foreign direct investment (FDI) and business retention of challenges because there are important logistical implications in and
and expansion (BR&E) activities. around airports that need to be considered such as infrastructure to
support growth, demand for pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers and
From the perspective of FDI we must consider which upcoming industries other aviation-related jobs.
play a key role in moving this agenda forward and categorize them in
sectors. According to IBISWorld, “The 10 Global Fastest Growing Industries The important question to ask is how economic developers can help
by Revenue Growth (%) in 2023” are: 1. Global Airport Operation support the growth of aviation facilities in a responsible and sustainable
(16.2%), 2. Global Hotels and Resorts (11.8%), 3. Global Travel Agency way. According to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) session
Services (11.8%), 4. Global Tourism (10.8%), 5. Global Airlines (7.7%), on Future of Aviation it was mentioned that in, “little over a century, [the
6. Global Reinsurance Carriers (6.8%), 7. Global Commercial Aircraft aviation] industry has gone from learning to fly, to learning to fly faster,
Manufacturing (6.3%), 8. Global Architectural Services (6.2%), 9. Global learning to fly further, learning to fly heavier planes, and now to having
HR and Recruitment Services (5.7%), and 10. Global Casinos and Online 100,000 plus commercial flights occurring around the world each and
Gambling (5.7%). If we are to categorize these ten industries by the North every day – representing over 400 departures per hour!” (Future of
American Industry Classification System Code (also known as NAICS Aviation). To further indicate the impact of aviation industry around the
Code) than the top sectors for 2023 are the following: 1. Manufacturing, 2. globe, ICAO states that everyday airplanes transport more than “10
Transportation and Warehousing, 3. Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation, million passengers, 18 billion USD worth of goods, and with a 3.5 per
4. Accommodation and Food Services, 5. Professional, Scientific, and cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) worldwide (2.7 trillion US dollars)
Technical Services, 6. Finance and Insurance, 7. Administrative and [the industry] has created 65 million jobs globally” (Future of Aviation).
support, waste management and remediation services. If this growth is to continue, we can see no fewer than “200,000 flights

40. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

per day by mid-2030’s and by 2036 the air transport industry will have job creation and trade then an airport can be seen as a viable solution
then contributed to 15.5 million in direct jobs and $1.5 trillion of GDP to for economic prosperity.
the world economy. Once the impacts of global tourism are taken into
account, these numbers could rise to 97.8 million jobs and $5.7 trillion Communities with giant airports are seeking to reevaluate and invest in their
in GDP” (Future of Aviation). airport zones. As of March 6, 2023 an initiative is being carried forward by
Toronto Region Board of Trade with the discussion of the Pearson Economic
Aviation is an important industry that creates a worldwide transportation Zone Growth Initiative (PEGZI). PEGZI encompasses four municipalities
network and enables economic growth, job creation, and securing which include: City of Toronto, City of Mississauga, City of Brampton and
international trade and tourism opportunities. Cities that have airports City of Vaughan. This initiative emulates the concept of “aerotropolis” as
located in their community have a huge advantage in leveraging innovation coined by John Kasarda in his book called “Aerotropolis: The Way We’ll
and economic growth in their community. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Live Next”. Kasarda refers to aerotropolis to be a combination of a giant
area consists of twenty five cities and a population of approximately 6.4 airport, planned city, shipping facility, and business hub that connects a
million according 2021 Statistics Canada. GTA is the largest metropolitan community to the world’s economies. Pearson Economic Growth Zone
area in Canada and City of Toronto ranks fourth largest metropolitan city in currently employs 400,000 workers and contributes $53 billion to Ontario’s
North America. City of Toronto is Canada’s largest economic and trading Economy. This makes the zone, Canada’s second largest employment hub
hub with almost “one in five (18.1%) Canadians and close to half (44.4%) after downtown Toronto with 550,000. Now in order to unlock this economic
of all Ontarians live in or around the City of Toronto and the Greater zone the four municipalities are coming together to discuss and overcome
Toronto Area” (Canada Population). Toronto is recognized for being a the five challenges posed by the zone. The five challenges are: 1) crippling
diverse city with almost half of the city’s population being born outside congestion, 2) lack of transit access, 3) scarcity of employment land, 4)
of Canada. Immigration is the number driver of Toronto’s population underinvestment in advanced manufacturing, and 5) a lagging transition
both within the city itself and GTA. The GTA consists of ten airports, eight to net-zero. PEGZI is in its earlier phases but it will be an initiative to look
heliports, and one water aerodrome. Two of the ten airports are within forward to and consider. Based on this initiative a call for action for economic
City of Toronto parameters which are Billy Bishop Airport and Toronto developers when reviewing such zones, it is crucial to conduct a feasibility
Pearson International Airport. Richard Florida and The Creative Class study of the area and the return on investment of such a zone. Other things
Group recently published a report called “Toronto Downtown’s Airport” to considers in regards to the zone is the number of business improvement
which discussed the importance City of Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport districts within the zone and helping those businesses become a part of a
located alongside the waterfront. This study led to further discussion to community development strategy. Next would be reviewing the movement
investigate airports as opportunities for economic prosperity and growth. of goods and services through a supply chain strategy that includes variables
With economic developers seeking opportunity zones as sites for growth, for de- risking the zone from future disasters and emergencies.

ALIA ABBAS
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, CITY OF TORONTO - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT &
CULTURE BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION UNIT
Alia Abbas is an economic development professional with seven years of experience managing projects both
in Canada and United States. She is the CEO and Founder of Alia Consulting – Economic Development Firm
which is a boutique firm based in Toronto, Canada.
[email protected] 2nd fl. 77th Elizabeth Street, Toronto, ON M5G 1P4
www.linkedin.com/in/aliaabbas21/ 437-833-8468

41. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

THOSE DARN KIDS NOWADAYS THOSE DARN KIDS NOWADAYS

THE CHALLENGE OF GENERATIONAL DIVERSITYTHE CHALLENGE OF GENERATIONAL DIVERSITY

Do you have a fear of bridges? Or is it a fear of heights? Or a fear of challenging. The only way to get from one side of a gap to another is to
Do you have a fear of bridges? Or is it a fear of heights? Or a fear of challenging. The only way to get from one side of a gap to another is to
poor infrastructure? build a bridge. You need a lot of diverse ideas to do that and someone who build a bridge. You need a lot of diverse ideas to do that and someone who
poor infrastructure?
THOSE DARN KIDS NOWADAYS can take the company down that journey. With a record five generations
can take the company down that journey. With a record five generations
There is a bridge near where my grandparents lived in Watertown, WI. in the workplace and seven living, any change and building in that regard
There is a bridge near where my grandparents lived in Watertown, WI. in the workplace and seven living, any change and building in that regard
Across the bridge was a treat store, I mean grocery store. I had to get must be intentional. But it comes with change and uncertainty. Across the bridge was a treat store, I mean grocery store. I had to get must be intentional. But it comes with change and uncertainty.
THE CHALLENGE OF GENERATIONAL DIVERSITY
across that bridge. To build this further, I believe my fear of heights, i.e., across that bridge. To build this further, I believe my fear of heights, i.e.,
bridges, came from the result of my Dad falling onto me from a ladder True strength comes from seeking out and respecting diversity. bridges, came from the result of my Dad falling onto me from a ladder True strength comes from seeking out and respecting diversity.
as he was painting in my grandmother’s kitchen. I pushed through my as he was painting in my grandmother’s kitchen. I pushed through my
Do you have a fear of bridges? Or is it a fear of heights? Or a fear of challenging. The only way to get from one side of a gap to another is to
fear to get on the other side.
fear to get on the other side. Why do we let this be an issue? Lots of reasons. One is people love living Why do we let this be an issue? Lots of reasons. One is people love living
poor infrastructure? build a bridge. You need a lot of diverse ideas to do that and someone who
in their comfort zones. It is easier to point your finger at somebody else
can take the company down that journey. With a record five generations in their comfort zones. It is easier to point your finger at somebody else
We all have fears. Fears keep us from growing personally and professionally. than to address the problem. People have a fear of conflict, which when
We all have fears. Fears keep us from growing personally and professionally. than to address the problem. People have a fear of conflict, which when
There is a bridge near where my grandparents lived in Watertown, WI. in the workplace and seven living, any change and building in that regard
Across the bridge was a treat store, I mean grocery store. I had to get must be intentional. But it comes with change and uncertainty.
They keep us in our comfort zone where nothing good ever happens. used properly, can actually build trust in a company. Often times those in
They keep us in our comfort zone where nothing good ever happens. used properly, can actually build trust in a company. Often times those in
across that bridge. To build this further, I believe my fear of heights, i.e.,
Not necessarily a fear of heights, but a fear of change and uncertainty. leadership positions have an ego instead of leadership skills and they skirt leadership positions have an ego instead of leadership skills and they skirt
Not necessarily a fear of heights, but a fear of change and uncertainty.
bridges, came from the result of my Dad falling onto me from a ladder True strength comes from seeking out and respecting diversity.
as he was painting in my grandmother’s kitchen. I pushed through my around the issue. Unfortunately, it can come down to a serious dislike and
The challenges in our communities are at fever pitch. These challenges The challenges in our communities are at fever pitch. These challenges around the issue. Unfortunately, it can come down to a serious dislike and
fear to get on the other side.
Why do we let this be an issue? Lots of reasons. One is people love living
hit every corner of our lives. We can’t hide from them. We know they exist disrespect, typically because of a lack of information and engagement.
hit every corner of our lives. We can’t hide from them. We know they exist disrespect, typically because of a lack of information and engagement.
Companies are full of drama, silos, and walls, which are all challenges
in the workforce where we can’t seem to keep or find the right people. in their comfort zones. It is easier to point your finger at somebody else in the workforce where we can’t seem to keep or find the right people. Companies are full of drama, silos, and walls, which are all challenges
We all have fears. Fears keep us from growing personally and professionally. than to address the problem. People have a fear of conflict, which when
We need to change in an era when change and uncertainty elevates that separate us instead of joining us together. Those challenges don’t
We need to change in an era when change and uncertainty elevates that separate us instead of joining us together. Those challenges don’t
They keep us in our comfort zone where nothing good ever happens. used properly, can actually build trust in a company. Often times those in
build bridges. Those challenges do, however, directly impact employee
our fear. Not necessarily a fear of heights, but a fear of change and uncertainty. leadership positions have an ego instead of leadership skills and they skirt our fear. build bridges. Those challenges do, however, directly impact employee
retention, which impacts attraction, which impacts productivity, which
The challenges in our communities are at fever pitch. These challenges around the issue. Unfortunately, it can come down to a serious dislike and retention, which impacts attraction, which impacts productivity, which
hit every corner of our lives. We can’t hide from them. We know they exist
But there is hope. disrespect, typically because of a lack of information and engagement. But there is hope. impacts the bottom line. Companies need to find a way to get diverse
impacts the bottom line. Companies need to find a way to get diverse
in the workforce where we can’t seem to keep or find the right people. Companies are full of drama, silos, and walls, which are all challenges
age groups to think together in a trusting and respectful way. We need
We need to change in an era when change and uncertainty elevates that separate us instead of joining us together. Those challenges don’t age groups to think together in a trusting and respectful way. We need
As a community leader, this is critical! It’s your decisions, not your conditions, to seek out the drama, silos, and walls to build bridges. As a community leader, this is critical! It’s your decisions, not your conditions, to seek out the drama, silos, and walls to build bridges.
build bridges. Those challenges do, however, directly impact employee
our fear.
which determine your trajectory. retention, which impacts attraction, which impacts productivity, which which determine your trajectory.
But there is hope. impacts the bottom line. Companies need to find a way to get diverse Imagine if a company all had one type and style of employee. Pretty silly,
Imagine if a company all had one type and style of employee. Pretty silly,
age groups to think together in a trusting and respectful way. We need
Over 90% of companies are recognizing age diversity as an issue in the right? Sometimes I like to use extremes to prove a point. Would you enjoy
Over 90% of companies are recognizing age diversity as an issue in the right? Sometimes I like to use extremes to prove a point. Would you enjoy
As a community leader, this is critical! It’s your decisions, not your conditions, to seek out the drama, silos, and walls to build bridges.
workplace. Generational diversity impacts company culture just like every working there? Would there be many or any innovative ideas, thoughts,
workplace. Generational diversity impacts company culture just like every working there? Would there be many or any innovative ideas, thoughts,
which determine your trajectory.
Imagine if a company all had one type and style of employee. Pretty silly,
type of diversity. The bottom line, though, is engagement. When you or concepts? What would the customer base look like? When you have
type of diversity. The bottom line, though, is engagement. When you or concepts? What would the customer base look like? When you have
Over 90% of companies are recognizing age diversity as an issue in the right? Sometimes I like to use extremes to prove a point. Would you enjoy
address any kind of diversity, it is typically a sensitive issue, partly because a diverse workforce, your chances for a diverse customer base increase.
address any kind of diversity, it is typically a sensitive issue, partly because a diverse workforce, your chances for a diverse customer base increase.
workplace. Generational diversity impacts company culture just like every working there? Would there be many or any innovative ideas, thoughts,
of where we are as a culture and the fact we are trending toward weaker How else do you find out how to meet their needs? We need to seek out
of where we are as a culture and the fact we are trending toward weaker How else do you find out how to meet their needs? We need to seek out
type of diversity. The bottom line, though, is engagement. When you or concepts? What would the customer base look like? When you have
address any kind of diversity, it is typically a sensitive issue, partly because and respect diversity.
communication. Are you teaching your employees of all ages how to a diverse workforce, your chances for a diverse customer base increase. communication. Are you teaching your employees of all ages how to and respect diversity.
of where we are as a culture and the fact we are trending toward weaker How else do you find out how to meet their needs? We need to seek out
better have meaningful engagement? better have meaningful engagement?
communication. Are you teaching your employees of all ages how to and respect diversity.
better have meaningful engagement? It would be great if it was as simple as solving the generational diversity It would be great if it was as simple as solving the generational diversity
Research shows that generations know they don’t get along. The generation challenge. There are many differences in the workplace, including
Research shows that generations know they don’t get along. The generation challenge. There are many differences in the workplace, including
It would be great if it was as simple as solving the generational diversity
gap, as it is often called, is widening and makes the issue even more personality, culture, gender, and socioeconomic, to name a few. I do a
Research shows that generations know they don’t get along. The generation challenge. There are many differences in the workplace, including
gap, as it is often called, is widening and makes the issue even more personality, culture, gender, and socioeconomic, to name a few. I do a
gap, as it is often called, is widening and makes the issue even more personality, culture, gender, and socioeconomic, to name a few. I do a
42. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

THOSE DARN KIDS NOWADAYS THOSE DARN KIDS NOWADAYS

THE CHALLENGE OF GENERATIONAL DIVERSITYTHE CHALLENGE OF GENERATIONAL DIVERSITY

Do you have a fear of bridges? Or is it a fear of heights? Or a fear of challenging. The only way to get from one side of a gap to another is to
Do you have a fear of bridges? Or is it a fear of heights? Or a fear of challenging. The only way to get from one side of a gap to another is to
poor infrastructure? build a bridge. You need a lot of diverse ideas to do that and someone who lot of speaking and workshops related to personality in the workplace. I build a bridge. You need a lot of diverse ideas to do that and someone who
poor infrastructure?
can take the company down that journey. With a record five generations
can take the company down that journey. With a record five generations believe it is one of the key factors that impacts building trust. Generational 3. Meaningful engagement. Find excuses to get input. Seek it
diversity is right on its heels.
There is a bridge near where my grandparents lived in Watertown, WI. in the workplace and seven living, any change and building in that regard out in your meetings. Everybody needs and wants to be heard.
There is a bridge near where my grandparents lived in Watertown, WI. in the workplace and seven living, any change and building in that regard
In the same vein, you also need people to understand not
Across the bridge was a treat store, I mean grocery store. I had to get must be intentional. But it comes with change and uncertainty. Across the bridge was a treat store, I mean grocery store. I had to get must be intentional. But it comes with change and uncertainty.
Younger generations are in a much different place than we have ever
everybody’s opinion can be implemented. Consider exercises
experienced in the workplace. Businesses are almost to the point of begging
across that bridge. To build this further, I believe my fear of heights, i.e., across that bridge. To build this further, I believe my fear of heights, i.e., to build trust and constructive conflict.
for employees. There are clearly more jobs than employees and that is
4. Personality. Take the time to understand your teammates. A
bridges, came from the result of my Dad falling onto me from a ladder True strength comes from seeking out and respecting diversity. bridges, came from the result of my Dad falling onto me from a ladder True strength comes from seeking out and respecting diversity.
not going to get any easier with the silver tsunami that is taking place as
as he was painting in my grandmother’s kitchen. I pushed through my as he was painting in my grandmother’s kitchen. I pushed through my tool like DISC is a fantastic way to get started on that journey.
the older generations retire.
Consider your team utilizing the DISC assessment with debriefs
fear to get on the other side. Why do we let this be an issue? Lots of reasons. One is people love living Why do we let this be an issue? Lots of reasons. One is people love living
fear to get on the other side.
and a workshop.
in their comfort zones. It is easier to point your finger at somebody else So how do we build the bridge? Just like any construction, you have to in their comfort zones. It is easier to point your finger at somebody else
5. Reverse mentoring. Tim Elmore suggests this in his book,
research the project. As you consider each generation, dig into the key
We all have fears. Fears keep us from growing personally and professionally. than to address the problem. People have a fear of conflict, which when
We all have fears. Fears keep us from growing personally and professionally. than to address the problem. People have a fear of conflict, which when worldwide issues and events that they faced. For example, the oldest A New Kind of Diversity. It is a well-researched study into
They keep us in our comfort zone where nothing good ever happens. used properly, can actually build trust in a company. Often times those in generation, the Builders, were faced with the Great Depression. I remember generational differences. Have the younger generations mentor
They keep us in our comfort zone where nothing good ever happens. used properly, can actually build trust in a company. Often times those in
the older generations. View younger generations as an asset
Not necessarily a fear of heights, but a fear of change and uncertainty. leadership positions have an ego instead of leadership skills and they skirt like it was yesterday when my parents saved the Christmas wrapping leadership positions have an ego instead of leadership skills and they skirt
Not necessarily a fear of heights, but a fear of change and uncertainty.
to better understand. Consider training staff on how to coach
The challenges in our communities are at fever pitch. These challenges around the issue. Unfortunately, it can come down to a serious dislike and paper. Boomers, like myself, were part of the post-war expansion or and mentor their peers.
The challenges in our communities are at fever pitch. These challenges around the issue. Unfortunately, it can come down to a serious dislike and
boom, particularly in births. The Busters grew up with birth control and the
hit every corner of our lives. We can’t hide from them. We know they exist disrespect, typically because of a lack of information and engagement.
hit every corner of our lives. We can’t hide from them. We know they exist disrespect, typically because of a lack of information and engagement. beginning of much distrust with authority and leadership. You often hear 6. Study leadership. Every, yes, every employee can improve
engagement by focusing on relationships and not management.
in the workforce where we can’t seem to keep or find the right people. Companies are full of drama, silos, and walls, which are all challenges the word entitled as being synonymous with Millennials. And Gen Z went Companies are full of drama, silos, and walls, which are all challenges
in the workforce where we can’t seem to keep or find the right people.
From the CEO to the front-line employees, consider evaluating
We need to change in an era when change and uncertainty elevates that separate us instead of joining us together. Those challenges don’t through a pandemic and mass shootings are sadly part of everyday life. each individual leadership style and putting a plan together
We need to change in an era when change and uncertainty elevates that separate us instead of joining us together. Those challenges don’t
with your talent.
our fear. build bridges. Those challenges do, however, directly impact employee You can see how their attitudes would be shaped and impact relationships. build bridges. Those challenges do, however, directly impact employee
our fear.
retention, which impacts attraction, which impacts productivity, which We need to identify what is causing the gaps between the generations. Not retention, which impacts attraction, which impacts productivity, which
impacts the bottom line. Companies need to find a way to get diverse
But there is hope. impacts the bottom line. Companies need to find a way to get diverse only do we have the gaps, but they are also widening. Certainly, people I remember hearing when I was younger the expression, those darn
But there is hope.
age groups to think together in a trusting and respectful way. We need
age groups to think together in a trusting and respectful way. We need living longer has had an impact. That is a factor in the workforce and kids nowadays. Now I sometimes catch myself saying the same thing.
outside with the demands on the economy and their children. Moving
If I focus on building bridges with every generation, I notice how trust is
As a community leader, this is critical! It’s your decisions, not your conditions, to seek out the drama, silos, and walls to build bridges. As a community leader, this is critical! It’s your decisions, not your conditions, to seek out the drama, silos, and walls to build bridges.
from city to city and even country to country has challenged our ability and impacted. And if we trust each other, we can have constructive conflict.
which determine your trajectory. which determine your trajectory.
willingness to get along with others. There is no question of the impact That’s a great starting point.
Imagine if a company all had one type and style of employee. Pretty silly, of social media and the internet. Information is growing at an incredible Imagine if a company all had one type and style of employee. Pretty silly,
Over 90% of companies are recognizing age diversity as an issue in the right? Sometimes I like to use extremes to prove a point. Would you enjoy rate, yet what information is dependable and what isn’t. What we accept
Over 90% of companies are recognizing age diversity as an issue in the right? Sometimes I like to use extremes to prove a point. Would you enjoy
workplace. Generational diversity impacts company culture just like every working there? Would there be many or any innovative ideas, thoughts, in our culture has changed dramatically as well. Just look at the divorce TODD KUCKKAHN
workplace. Generational diversity impacts company culture just like every working there? Would there be many or any innovative ideas, thoughts,
rate and declining church participation.
type of diversity. The bottom line, though, is engagement. When you or concepts? What would the customer base look like? When you have
type of diversity. The bottom line, though, is engagement. When you or concepts? What would the customer base look like? When you have Todd Kuckkahn is on a mission to revolutionize
address any kind of diversity, it is typically a sensitive issue, partly because a diverse workforce, your chances for a diverse customer base increase.
address any kind of diversity, it is typically a sensitive issue, partly because a diverse workforce, your chances for a diverse customer base increase. Let’s begin to put that research and knowledge together to build company culture and leadership. He is an
of where we are as a culture and the fact we are trending toward weaker How else do you find out how to meet their needs? We need to seek out that bridge. international speaker and facilitates workshops
of where we are as a culture and the fact we are trending toward weaker How else do you find out how to meet their needs? We need to seek out
to shift the workplace. Todd is a certified
communication. Are you teaching your employees of all ages how to and respect diversity. communication. Are you teaching your employees of all ages how to and respect diversity. speaker, coach, teacher and trainer through
1. Seek out differences. Whatever the situation, we need to learn
as much as we can about each other. That is true in and out
better have meaningful engagement? better have meaningful engagement? Maxwell Leadership.
of the workplace. Consider conducting core values training.
It would be great if it was as simple as solving the generational diversity 2. Listen and pay attention. Simple, but not easy. Give people It would be great if it was as simple as solving the generational diversity
[email protected]
Research shows that generations know they don’t get along. The generation challenge. There are many differences in the workplace, including the chance to share their thoughts and ideas and truly engage 715-498-4979
Research shows that generations know they don’t get along. The generation challenge. There are many differences in the workplace, including
gap, as it is often called, is widening and makes the issue even more personality, culture, gender, and socioeconomic, to name a few. I do a with them. Consider dedicated communication training. toddkuckkahn.com
gap, as it is often called, is widening and makes the issue even more personality, culture, gender, and socioeconomic, to name a few. I do a
43. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

GOING GLOBAL: FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT VITAL TO

KENTUCKY’S SURGING ECONOMY

Kentucky enters 2023 with unprecedented economic momentum after what decision to center Envision AESC’s investment in Kentucky was an obvious
has been officially recorded as the best two-year period for announced choice to us, in large part because of the readiness of the skilled workforce
private-sector investment and job creation in state history in 2021 and 2022. required to deliver a project of this scale and importance.”
Last year saw the commonwealth add 248 private-sector new-location
and expansion projects committed to invest nearly $10.5 billion and create KENTUCKY: AN FDI POWERHOUSE
16,000 full-time jobs. Those figures position 2022 as Kentucky’s second
highest year for new investment behind 2021’s record year of $11.2 billion. Kentucky’s strong international ties – the state ranks 5th nationally in FDI
employment as a percentage of total employment – speaks to the fact
This type of historic economic momentum is not possible without the executives all over the world recognize the Bluegrass State as a premier
necessary business climate, which includes a strong, talented workforce, location and partner for business.
access to resources, advantageous location, and most importantly, investment
from high-quality companies from around the world bringing well-paying, Kentucky’s international presence includes nearly 500 facilities that employ
full-time jobs to Kentucky. almost 110,000 people and represent 33 different countries. Under the
leadership of Gov. Andy Beshear, FDI has contributed to over 160 new
In 2022, foreign-investment projects accounted for over 3,300 jobs created projects announced totaling nearly $13 billion in direct investment and
and $3.9 billion in new investment, which accounted for 37% of Kentucky’s creating over 15,000 full-time jobs.
total direct investment number over the course of the year.
Kentucky’s history of developing successful partnerships with international
Japan-based Envision AESC broke ground on their $2 billion, state-of-the- companies goes back decades. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky
art gigafactory in Bowling Green’s Kentucky Transpark in August 2022. (TMMK) in Georgetown, which broke ground in 1986 and opened in
The 30 gigawatt-hour plant is creating 2,000 skilled jobs in Southcentral 1988, is the company’s largest plant globally and continues to make major
Kentucky to produce battery cells and modules that will power up to 300,000 contributions to Kentucky’s auto industry. Today, roughly 140 Japanese-owned
next-generation EVs by 2027 and will be manufactured for multiple global automotive-related facilities operate or plan to locate facilities in Kentucky,
automotive manufacturers. and much of that presence can be attributed to the growth of TMMK.

“Bowling Green has for many decades played a leading role in the Japan leads the way for FDI in the commonwealth. In 2022, Japanese-
automotive industry,” said Jeff Deaton, managing director of Envision AESC based companies announced 11 projects accounting for over $2.7 billion
U.S. “Since the 1960s, when the town was connected to Interstate 65, and in investment and over 2,300 jobs created. These announcements include
in the 1980s when General Motors built its major manufacturing plant. Envision AESC and its $2 billion, state-of-the-art gigafactory in Bowling
Auto Alley is now rapidly leading in U.S. EV battery manufacturing. So, the Green’s Kentucky Transpark. The 30 gigawatt-hour plant is creating 2,000

44. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

skilled jobs in Southcentral Kentucky to produce battery cells and modules the state’s recent economic surge. Exports by Kentucky businesses surpassed
that will power up to 300,000 next-generation EVs by 2027 and will be $34 billion last year, a 16.5% increase from 2021.
manufactured for multiple global automotive manufacturers.
Kentucky’s top export was aerospace products and parts, accounting for
In July 2022, Japan-based Beam Suntory announced expanded capacity for $10.4 billion in products shipped around the world. Other top exported
Jim Beam Brands Co. with a an over $400 million investment that will create products from the commonwealth include pharmaceuticals and medicines,
more than 50 full-time jobs at the Booker Noe Distillery in Boston, Kentucky. motor vehicles, resin and rubber, and computer equipment.

Germany, Canada, Italy, France, Sweden, South Korea, the United Kingdom, The list of Kentucky’s top international export partners is as diverse as
Luxembourg and Norway round out the top-10 countries in terms of Kentucky-made products, with countries such as Canada, Mexico, the
announced projects in Kentucky for 2022. United Kingdom, China, France, Brazil, the Netherlands, Japan, Austria
and Malaysia making up the top-10.
In September 2021, Gov. Beshear and executives from Ford Motor Co.
and SK On, a South Korean-based company, announced the BlueOval LOGISTICS MAKES IT ALL POSSIBLE
SK Battery Park in Hardin County. The transformational $5.8 billion project
is the single-largest economic development investment in Kentucky history Kentucky boasts a number of other business-friendly elements that help
and is set to create 5,000 jobs in the heart of the state. companies from all over the world succeed, including the state’s ideal
geographic location that places companies within a day’s drive of
Germany-based Wieland North America broke ground on a $100 million more than two-thirds of the nation’s population, personal income and
copper recycling center in Shelby County, Kentucky, that is creating 75 manufacturing operations. With highly developed logistics and distribution
quality jobs for Kentuckians. The company has also announced a new infrastructure and facilities – including four major ground and air shipping
headquarters in Louisville, creating an additional 75 positions. hubs with Amazon Air, DHL, FedEx and UPS – Kentucky provides businesses
with numerous reliable, air, road, waterway and rail shipping options.
Joining Wieland North America, German-owned Purem by Eberspaecher Administration-to-date, the commonwealth’s distribution and logistics
recently opened an automotive-related facility in Louisville, creating 250 sector has seen over $600 million in new investment as it provides
full-time jobs. companies from every industry with the resources needed to get products
to consumers as quickly as possible.
In January 2022, India-based Novelis Corp. announced a $365 million
investment to construct a new recycling center that will create 140 jobs. In Kentucky has a long, successful history of working with international
December 2022, Pernod Ricard USA, a company based in France, announced companies from every corner of the planet. FDI is a critical aspect of the
a distillery project with the potential to grow to a $250 million investment. commonwealth’s surging economy and will continue to play a major role
in the economy of the future. Combined with the state’s talented workforce,
“Pernod Ricard is committed to our business in Kentucky, and that is why access to resources and unique location, it’s no secret why companies
we are investing approximately $250 million over the next five years in and brands from around the world continue to choose Kentucky and
Marion County for a distillery, aging warehouse and visitor center that will Kentucky-made products.
add roughly 55 new full-time jobs as a result,” said Jessica Chen, vice
president of operations for American Whiskies, Pernod Ricard USA. “We
chose this location very carefully, working with the Kentucky Cabinet for BRANDON MATTINGLY
Economic Development and local businesses who helped us land on Maron DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF MARKETING &
County – a great location, a great opportunity, and a great community for PUBLIC AFFAIRS KENTUCKY CABINET FOR
us to become a part of.” ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
(502) 782-2006
KENTUCKY MAKES PRODUCTS USED AROUND THE GLOBE [email protected]
Old Capitol Annex, 300 West
In addition to record-breaking foreign direct investment, Kentucky products Broadway Frankfort, Ky. 40601
and services are valued by international customers as well, greatly adding to

45. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

ࣿ Greater Louisville, home of both Health Care and and Aging Innovation companies in the sector, providing them with
Muhammad Ali, Bluegrass, the Kentucky to move their products faster, more efficiently, the logistics infrastructure they need to be
Derby, Bourbon and…. Life Sciences? and with greater visibility. competitive on a global scale.
While the Greater Louisville region is known Louisville is also home to UPS Worldport, Speed and reliability
for its rich cultural heritage, incredible arts located at Louisville International Airport, ࣿ
amenities, horse racing and bourbon, in which provides critical infrastructure and One of the biggest challenges for companies
recent years it has also emerged as a top carves out the region’s competitive advantage in the Life Sciences sector is the need to
destination for the Life Sciences industry. in both Health and Aging Innovation. Locating move their products quickly and reliably.
For decades Louisville has been recognized in Louisville means you can get your goods Delays in transportation can lead to product
as the Aging Innovation Capital of America and services quicker to almost anywhere in spoilage, loss of potency, and regulatory
and a hub for health insurance companies. the world. The facility serves as the primary non-compliance, all of which can have
The region not only leads the nation in the hub for UPS's air express operations, handling serious consequences for patients and a
number of health and aging innovation more than 400,000 packages and documents company’s bottom line. UPS Healthcare and
corporate headquarters, it also boasts a per hour. It features a state-of-the-art sorting UPS Worldport offer a range of expedited
robust health innovation startup scene that system, temperature-controlled freezer transportation options, including same-day,
supports enterprises of all sizes. Over the capacity, and handling capabilities for next-flight-out, and charter services, as well
past five years, a new specialty sector of the sensitive and hazardous materials, making as guaranteed delivery times and real-time
Life Sciences industry cluster has emerged it an ideal location for the transportation of tracking. This enables companies in the
and is growing at record pace --Life Sciences Health and Aging Innovation products. GLI’s Health and Aging Innovation sector to get
Logistics. With its central location in the long-term relationship with UPS has led to their products to market faster, reducing time
United States, state-of-the-art infrastructure, numerous expansions for the company and to revenue and improving patient outcomes.
and innovative research institutions, Greater created an environment where Life Science
Louisville has attracted a significant number Logistics companies thrive.
of Biotech, Pharma, and medical device
companies, making it one of the fastest- There are a number of reasons companies
growing Life Sciences clusters in the country. are planting roots in Louisville to grow their
business. The region presents a number
Through the innovative clusters strategy of advantages for companies in Health
executed by Greater Louisville Inc., the metro care, Aging Innovation, Logistics, and the
chamber of commerce and regional economic convergence of all three, including:
development organization, the 15-county
region has exploded with opportunities. One ࣿ Economic advantages
of the key factors contributing to the success
in Greater Louisville is the presence of UPS The Health and Aging Innovation industry is
Healthcare, a vertical of UPS that specializes a key economic driver in the Louisville region.
in end-to-end logistics solutions for the According to the Louisville Healthcare CEO
healthcare sector. UPS Healthcare provides Council, the industry contributes over $11
an integrated network of air, ground, and billion to the local economy and employs
ocean transportation, as well as warehousing, over 135,000 people. The presence of
inventory management, and regulatory UPS Healthcare and UPS Worldport has
compliance services, enabling companies in played a key role in attracting and retaining

46. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

collaboration with the business community,
Live in Lou has become a catalyst to bring
top talent in highly specialized fields to
Greater Louisville.

Greater Louisville is known all over the world
for its vibrant culture, arts and culinary scene,
and welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+
community. Greater Louisville has been
regularly ranked in the top 10 destinations
for culinary enthusiasts, and food is also an
important aspect of the city's culture, with a
range of local specialties and international
cuisines on offer. Louisville is one of only
18 certified welcoming cities in the U.S.
and has maintained a perfect score on the
Human Rights Campaign Index for eight
consecutive years.
In addition to its cultural attractions and
unique cultural offerings, the city is also known
for its outdoor recreation opportunities. The
Louisville Loop, a 100-mile trail system that
encircles the city, offers a range of hiking,
ࣿ Regulatory compliance homes and accessory dwelling units. As the biking, and horseback riding options, as
demand for home health services continues well as access to the Ohio River. The city's
The Life Sciences industry is highly regulated,
with strict requirements for transportation, to rise, more companies are tapping into and numerous parks and green spaces, including
storage, and handling of products. Failure trusting Greater Louisville as their home base Cherokee Park and the Waterfront Park,
to comply with these regulations can result in to grow a Life Science Logistics business. offer a range of recreational opportunities,
fines, recalls, and damage to brand reputation. What COVID-19 hasn't affected is older including picnicking, boating, and outdoor
UPS Healthcare has extensive experience in adults' desire to stay in their homes as they concerts.
navigating the complex regulatory landscape age, according to a new AARP "Home and With its vibrant cultural scene and natural
of the healthcare sector, including compliance Community Preferences Survey" data shows beauty, the Louisville region offers a unique
with the US Food and Drug Administration that 77 percent of adults 50 and older want blend of urban and outdoor experiences.
(FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), to remain in their homes for the long term Whether you are a resident or a visitor, there
and other regulatory bodies around the world. — a number that has been consistent for is always something new to discover in this
The company has developed a range of more than a decade. dynamic and welcoming region.
standard operating procedures (SOPs) and a
singular quality management system (QMS) The use of telehealth—telecommunications
to ensure that all shipments are handled in technologies and electronic tools to provide
accordance with the relevant regulations, health care from a distance—grew significantly
reducing the risk of non-compliance. during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Data from 2020 indicates that utilization
ࣿ Temperature control
was 38 times higher than at any point in
Many Health and Aging Innovation products, 2019. Even after utilization stabilized after
such as vaccines, biologics, and blood the initial wave of the pandemic, the use
products, require strict temperature control of telehealth services is still between 13 to
during transportation to maintain their efficacy 17 times greater than at any time in either
and safety. UPS Healthcare offers a range of 2019 or 2018. Natalie Bonura
temperature-controlled shipping solutions,
including passive and active systems, as well as As a result of these and additional compounding Manager, Economic Development
packaging and labeling options that meet the factors (i.e. workforce shortages, innovation,
requirements of different temperature ranges. infrastructure improvements) the demand for Greater Louisville Inc.
UPS Worldport has dedicated temperature- wet laboratory facilities that provide compliant M
controlled storage areas, as well as facilities for Life Sciences Logistics solutions has been 614 W. Main Street #6000 | Louisville,
pre-conditioning and monitoring of shipments, on the rise, and Greater Louisville is at the KY 40202
ensuring that products are maintained at center of this paradigm shift in the industry. N
the required temperature throughout the 502.797.4646
E
transportation process. ࣿ People want to Live in Lou [email protected]
Greater Louisville’s Life Sciences talent pool D
ࣿ The rise of Telemedicine, Aging in has increased over 50 percent over the past greaterlouisville.com
Place and Logistics Anchored Wet Labs
five years. The population trends look favorable
The pandemic has changed the way people as talent across the country relocates to the
live and their feelings about home and region to gain access to the incredible cost
community. Many older adults have spent of living advantages and vibrant community
more time at home, feel less connected to assets. GLI’s Live in Lou talent attraction
their neighbors and would consider living initiative highlights the best parts of creating a
arrangements that include multigenerational life and career in Louisville. Through strategic

47. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

• Conceptual drawing of the new Jefferson’s Bourbon Distillery and Visitor Center

• Mural in Downtown Lebanon, Kentucky – Photo by: John Bramel The company is focusing the facility on production but also understands Cooperatives has blossomed. The electric cooperatives offer a portfolio
the opportunity the distillery presents as an attraction on the Bourbon that reflects not only traditional sources of generation like coal and natural
TURNING OUR BLUEGRASS GREEN Trail. The future address for the distillery is bordered on one side by gas, but now also green alternatives, including solar, wind, hydro and
an 18-hole golf course and on the other side by the smaller Limestone biomass obtained from sources within the state. More green options are
Branch Craft Distillery.
available through the cooperatives’ participation in the PJM Interconnection,
the largest electric grid and energy market in North America.
Brooklyn Leep, Executive Director for the Marion County Industrial
Foundation, who was instrumental in assisting the company locate in This diverse portfolio of electric generation provides reliability as well as
Kentucky is globally synonymous with three distinctive products: fried Inspired by California’s Napa Valley wine experience, and even taking Lebanon, stated, “We are so grateful that Pernod Ricard has chosen stable rates that have been crucial to the economic development success
chicken, horse-racing and bourbon. it a step further, Kentucky celebrates their bourbon industry with a trail Marion County as its home to not only expand its bourbon footprint, but the cooperatives are seeing across the service territories of rural Kentucky.
experience like no other. With over 2 million visitors traveling from distillery also provide an unparalleled visitor center experience for bourbon lovers During 2022, the cooperatives realized 32 economic development projects
The legend of the Colonel crafting his eleven herbs and spices is a story to distillery in 2022, the Kentucky Distillers Association’s Bourbon Trail is across the globe. We look forward to supporting the company every totaling $2.89 billion in investments with the creation of over 2,000 jobs.
told daily in more than 25,000 KFC restaurants serving his secret recipe. setting records as its distilleries invest more and more for production as well step of the way as it brings its wonderful vision to reality in Lebanon, Ky.” Kentucky is blessed with large quantities of potable water, unparalleled
The first Saturday in May is circled on every calendar in the Bluegrass state; as tourism opportunities. In 2022 alone, distillers invested over $2.1 billion Being the first distillery to combine carbon neutrality along with LEED logistics advantages and access to a diverse electric generation mix that
it is the annual date of the Kentucky Derby. This tradition-steeped event and created over 700 jobs as the thirst for Kentucky’s native spirit grows. certification on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, the Jefferson’s Distillery will provides stability in service as well as rates.
plays like a two-minute commercial for our state. It is broadcasted on A large percentage of that investment occurred in a small, rural community present a unique story that reflects the timeless nature of crafting bourbon
televisions simultaneously across every continent, showcasing Kentucky’s set within the knobs of Central Kentucky. Recently dubbed the “Center while embracing the modern awareness of meeting sustainability goals. Just as the bourbon industry chose Kentucky as the center of its universe
love of horses, with a backdrop of beautiful horse farms featuring the of the Bourbon Universe”, Marion County is home to the world-famous Leep understands what this investment will mean to the community decades ago, the new world of manufacturing is also finding a home in
distinctive bluegrass that actually appears green to most non-Kentuckians. Maker’s Mark Distillery, with its iconic red wax seal; Limestone Branch going forward as she says, “Marion County and most notably the City the Bluegrass State. Companies are bringing their investment dollars to

Distillery, with its historic Yellowstone label; and it is a major production of Lebanon will see a renaissance of opportunity that will breathe new Kentucky for new industries, including electric vehicles, as well as traditional
Another unique Kentucky storyline is being told around the world. And site for Bulleit Bourbon. life into our historic downtown from the influx of visitors traveling the industries, including metals. And they are finding Kentucky’s advantages
it is being told one ounce at a time. Bourbon brings together farmed Kentucky Bourbon Trail.” are second to none.
grains with crystal clear water, carefully combined and aged for years The latest addition to Marion County and Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail is
in new charred white oak barrels. A spirit unlike any other. Just like the the second-largest distiller in the world -- Pernod Ricard, which unveiled Visitors on the Bourbon Trail will also take a distinct turn to the environmentally I think it is fitting to raise a glass of bourbon to Kentucky, toasting our
state of Kentucky, the first time you experience bourbon, you will always plans in December 2022 for the new Jefferson’s Bourbon Distillery and conscious side of modern manufacturing when they visit Marion County’s current successes as well as those yet to come. The future of Kentucky is
remember it. Visitor’s Center. distilleries, as three of the four have enacted sustainability goals related as bright as the sun reflecting on the solar panels that power the distilleries
to water conservation as well as carbon neutrality. To eliminate carbon of Marion County.
In 1964, the United States Congress declared bourbon whiskey as a The French-based company, parent of Absolut vodka, Jameson Irish emissions, Pernod Ricard will use electric boilers to generate steam for
“distinctive product of the United States”. Bourbon can be made in any whiskey, The Glenlivet scotch, Beefeater gin, Kahlua liqueur and many the distilling process.
U.S. state. But most distillers craft their bourbon in Kentucky because of more brands, is building their first Kentucky distillery. BRAD THOMAS
unique factors that include natural filtering of water through limestone, Jerry Carter, president and CEO of Inter-County Energy, one of Kentucky’s ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
four distinct yearly seasons that enable plentiful grains to be harvested Pernod Ricard will construct a new 75,000-square-foot facility on a 265- Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, said, “Inter-County Energy is excited to KENTUCKY’S TOUCHSTONE ENERGY COOPERATIVES
along with stands of white oak trees used to create barrels,. In fact 95% acre site in Lebanon, Kentucky. The site will include a distillery, drying partner with Pernod Ricard in their new distillery and visitor center campus 4775 Lexington Road 40391
of the world’s bourbon is said to be distilled and aged in Kentucky while operation, three warehouses and a world-class visitor center. When in Marion County. Meeting our members’ requests – and specifically, P.O. Box 707
the other 5% is often referred to by Kentucky residents (jokingly, of course) completed this will be one of the largest LEED-certified distilleries globally Pernod Ricard’s requirements for sustainable 100% renewable energy for Winchester, KY 40392-0707
as “counterfeit.” and the first to locate in the commonwealth. The Marion County facility the project – is a cornerstone principle for Inter-County Energy.” Tel. 859 595 6251
will be fully carbon-neutral and will have zero fossil fuel consumption to
Bourbon distillers have always been an integral part of the Kentucky fabric produce bourbon. Pernod Ricard is only the second distillery in Kentucky Kentucky traditionally has generated the majority of its electricity from coal [email protected]
and legends. Located principally in rural parts of the state, distilleries and North America to make this claim. The 7.5-million proof-gallon mined from within the borders of the state. As the future has brought www.DataIsPower.org
decorate their communities as palaces to celebrate the spirits they produce distillery will produce over 115,000 barrels annually. about opportunities, the generation mix for Kentucky’s Touchstone Energy

48. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

• Conceptual drawing of the new Jefferson’s Bourbon Distillery and Visitor Center

The company is focusing the facility on production but also understands Cooperatives has blossomed. The electric cooperatives offer a portfolio
the opportunity the distillery presents as an attraction on the Bourbon that reflects not only traditional sources of generation like coal and natural
Trail. The future address for the distillery is bordered on one side by gas, but now also green alternatives, including solar, wind, hydro and
an 18-hole golf course and on the other side by the smaller Limestone biomass obtained from sources within the state. More green options are
Branch Craft Distillery. available through the cooperatives’ participation in the PJM Interconnection,
the largest electric grid and energy market in North America.
Brooklyn Leep, Executive Director for the Marion County Industrial
Foundation, who was instrumental in assisting the company locate in This diverse portfolio of electric generation provides reliability as well as
Lebanon, stated, “We are so grateful that Pernod Ricard has chosen stable rates that have been crucial to the economic development success
Marion County as its home to not only expand its bourbon footprint, but the cooperatives are seeing across the service territories of rural Kentucky.
also provide an unparalleled visitor center experience for bourbon lovers During 2022, the cooperatives realized 32 economic development projects
across the globe. We look forward to supporting the company every totaling $2.89 billion in investments with the creation of over 2,000 jobs.
step of the way as it brings its wonderful vision to reality in Lebanon, Ky.” Kentucky is blessed with large quantities of potable water, unparalleled
Being the first distillery to combine carbon neutrality along with LEED logistics advantages and access to a diverse electric generation mix that
certification on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, the Jefferson’s Distillery will provides stability in service as well as rates.
present a unique story that reflects the timeless nature of crafting bourbon
while embracing the modern awareness of meeting sustainability goals. Just as the bourbon industry chose Kentucky as the center of its universe
Leep understands what this investment will mean to the community decades ago, the new world of manufacturing is also finding a home in
going forward as she says, “Marion County and most notably the City the Bluegrass State. Companies are bringing their investment dollars to
of Lebanon will see a renaissance of opportunity that will breathe new Kentucky for new industries, including electric vehicles, as well as traditional
life into our historic downtown from the influx of visitors traveling the industries, including metals. And they are finding Kentucky’s advantages
Kentucky Bourbon Trail.” are second to none.

Visitors on the Bourbon Trail will also take a distinct turn to the environmentally I think it is fitting to raise a glass of bourbon to Kentucky, toasting our
conscious side of modern manufacturing when they visit Marion County’s current successes as well as those yet to come. The future of Kentucky is
distilleries, as three of the four have enacted sustainability goals related as bright as the sun reflecting on the solar panels that power the distilleries
to water conservation as well as carbon neutrality. To eliminate carbon of Marion County.
emissions, Pernod Ricard will use electric boilers to generate steam for
the distilling process.
BRAD THOMAS
Jerry Carter, president and CEO of Inter-County Energy, one of Kentucky’s ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, said, “Inter-County Energy is excited to KENTUCKY’S TOUCHSTONE ENERGY COOPERATIVES
partner with Pernod Ricard in their new distillery and visitor center campus 4775 Lexington Road 40391
in Marion County. Meeting our members’ requests – and specifically, P.O. Box 707
Pernod Ricard’s requirements for sustainable 100% renewable energy for Winchester, KY 40392-0707
the project – is a cornerstone principle for Inter-County Energy.” Tel. 859 595 6251

Kentucky traditionally has generated the majority of its electricity from coal [email protected]
mined from within the borders of the state. As the future has brought www.DataIsPower.org
about opportunities, the generation mix for Kentucky’s Touchstone Energy

49. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

THE INTERCONNECTEDNESS OF THRIVING INDUSTRIES

To compete in 2023 and beyond, industries While the IRA is driving green energy investments Japan, and Germany also increasing military
must identify the various risks and opportunities in the United States, European regulation changes spending. For the munitions industry, the war
within their value chain - factors that often go are also creating opportunities. Take, for example, in Ukraine has resulted in the U.S. increasing
hand in hand. As Tom Standage, Editor, wrote the environment, social, and governance (ESG) orders for the Stinger shoulder-fired surface-
in the Economist, In 2023, “... the world will reporting changes being implemented by the to-air missile by six-fold. Production of 155mm
have to grapple with unpredictability ... To European Union. Companies issuing securities shells may increase by the same with other types
complicate matters further, all these things are in the EU (including many U.S. issuers) must of munitions doubling or tripling, according to
tightly coupled, like an interlocking series of gear now report on their social and environmental Doug Bush, the US Army’s acquisition chief.
wheels.” Interlocking is a good way to describe impact at an unprecedented level. This double Communities from Scranton to McAlester stand
the current economy. Industry growth in 2023 will materiality approach will shed light on the to benefit from this increase in defense spending.
partially depend on leaders’ ability to evaluate impact companies have on their workforce and Which firms will secure contracts and which
their overall value chain while identifying the surrounding community, along with their communities reap the economic benefits may
resources and partners they can leverage to environmental impact. Economic developers hinge on the workforce side of the value chain
increase resiliency in a volatile environment. seeking to attract EU foreign direct investment and how quickly companies can ramp up.
should consider making recommendations
Electric vehicle production is one of the industries for how companies could achieve their ESG The risk of prolonged workforce shortages is one
where long-term incentives, for example, have a goals. For example, Greg Kindle, President of of the interlocking gears that isn’t running smoothly.
stabilizing effect. With the passage of the Inflation the Wyandotte Economic Development Council, Rather than approaching workforce concerns in
Reduction Act, consumers and businesses may worked with Urban Outfitters to add bus stops - a silo, industry leaders should take a proactive
qualify for electric vehicle tax credits for the next something that improved the local transportation approach to work with the community to train and
ten years - something that will help to increase infrastructure while supporting green transit for recruit talent. Very often, workforce development
demand for electric vehicles and growth across employees. Making such recommendations boards and community colleges have access to
the sector. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) will could help economic developers further equity funding for training programs but lack connections
further benefit American manufacturing as initiatives while becoming more attractive to with companies and the workers who could benefit
companies are forced to onshore operations to companies with ESG reporting requirements. from their services. “We have money that can be
maximize benefits - an estimated $370 billion in used to augment the cost to train workers and can
incentives. The policy is already working to attract The IRA and ESG are creating economic even subsidize wages while they receive on-the-job
investment, with over 100 battery manufacturers opportunities, but so is the increase in military training,” said Jon Menz Chief, Executive Officer at
having announced new or expansion projects spending. The United States raised military West Central WI Workforce Development Board
in the U.S., according to the Secretary of Energy. spending by 9% in 2023, to $800bn, with NATO, (West Central Works). “Business executives need to

50. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL

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