Local leaders and professionals from the Southern Virginia region convened at The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research last week for a specialized training in economic development. The event featured Carol Johnson, Founder of Continuous Dialog; renowned for her expertise in the dynamic field of economic development across the United States.
Demonstrating competitive economic development skills is no longer just an option for economic development professionals who wish to be successful in retaining, growing, and winning quality jobs for their communities. It requires a region that is committed to improving the economic prosperity of the local companies and their employees, and a willing attitude to learn best practices and skills to prepare, respond, and win in the fierce competition of economic development. This training challenged economic developers as well as experienced leaders to share best practices and apply new skills that will benefit existing and prospective industry.
One thing is clear – the stakes are high, and expectations are rising for communities to compete, win, and retain quality jobs in today’s highly competitive economic development arena. The Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) hosted this informational training session. Local and regional economic developers joined infrastructure, utility and workforce service providers for a full day workshop on best practices for preparing to market the assets of the region in support of existing and prospective businesses.
“The Participation of Local Members underscores commitment to reach the goal of increasing capital investment in the southern Virginia region.” Kristy Johnson, President of SVRA
The following day the training culminated with local elected officials joining economic developers and industrial development authorities, city managers and county administrators, for a workshop on how community leaders can work with economic developers to influence growth and development in the community. Economic development is a team sport – and everyone has a vital role to meet the needs of our local industry.
“The presentation was very helpful for understanding the role of economic developers, as well as how the city should prepare for a company that is potentially coming to the region as far as site readiness, workforce development, and business friendly organizations.” Kristen Barker, Member, City of Danville Industrial Development Authority
“I thought it was an outstanding presentation from Carol and she hit all the highpoints. The three points about speed, risk, and money at the forefront about that discussion with prospects and businesses were important.” Ken Bowman, Pitt Co Board
“I thought the workshop was excellent. Carol brought energy, presented the information with great passion, and made it relevant to our roles as economic development drivers. This is exactly what I needed as a newly appointed Director of economic development.” James Houchins, Director of Economic Development and Tourism.