Gaining Perspective in a Time of Transition

“Companies will not survive for the long run if their communities are stagnant.”
-Jan Rivkin, Harvard Business School

Our team will be fortunate to take part in three great events next week that will, in different ways, address the future of economic development. Against the backdrop of a weak recovery and political gridlock, economic developers are at the front lines of generating growth and opportunity. These events offer perspective and inspiration for us in a time of transition in our country.

First, the International Economic Development Council will hold its annual meeting in Cleveland next week. The nation’s largest association of economic developers will visit Ohio to discuss growth, opportunity and innovation. Cleveland and all of Northeast Ohio will offer a great setting to discuss what the future may bring.

Second, here in Columbus, the CEOs for Cities 2016 National Meeting will welcome leaders from 75 cities to discuss a range of issues facing our communities. The intersection of economic, community and social development requires that our nonprofit, government and civic leaders be better than ever.

Finally, we are always humbled to be with the Brookings Global Cities Initiative leaders and our cohort group to discuss the impact of global trade and investment. We remain very committed to this aspect of our economy and look forward learning from our peer cities.

-Kenny McDonald

One Columbus Update

• This week, the One Columbus team will travel to Canada to meet with companies and consultants. Back at home, our team will host companies considering the Columbus Region.
• Kudos to The Ohio State University’s National Center for the Middle Market for hosting a successful event last week to discuss opportunities and challenges faced by companies going global. Their Winning in the Americas report provides great insight for companies and the communities that support them.