Does Place Matter?

By Dean Whittaker As representatives of place, economic development professions are challenged by a“New Economy” that is global, knowledge based, and networked.  Does place offer a competitive advantage? This is a question asked by Michael Porter in his article...

2001 U.S. Rural New & Expanded Activity

By Pete Julius In order to successfully attract businesses to rural communities, it is imperative to understand which industries gravitate to less populated areas.  For most communities, it is extremely challenging to attract businesses.  For rural communities which...

Creativity and Economic Development

By Dean Whittaker Economic development professionals are well aware of how valuable creativity and innovation are to corporations and communities. In the global economy, a company’s commitment to innovation gives it the competitive edge, and the creative workers such...