Block Your Calendar: Colorado Hosts Fall SEDE Meeting – 10/15 – 16 (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network is holding its fall meeting for state economic development executives or their top deputy in Denver, Colorado. Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade, is excited to bring SEDE executives to the Mile High City on October 15^th and 16^th. Register here and view the agenda here. Hotel information coming soon.

SEDE Webinar – Incentives Under the Microscope: Confronting Today’s Toughest Challenges (SEDE) Join the SEDE network on September 10^th at 2:00PM EST for a webinar focused on today’s incentive environment. As incentive decisions grow more complex, state economic development agencies face growing questions about their incentive portfolios, including which programs are delivering results, how states should evaluate success, and how do leaders know when deploying an incentive is the right call. This session will include time for states to share their own approaches and engage in peer discussion — an opportunity to learn how colleagues are navigating similar challenges in their own incentive programs. Register here.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act: What State Leaders Should Know (SEDE) Housing has evolved from a quality-of-life issue to a core economic development challenge. State leaders underscored this reality at SEDE’s fall meeting in New York, noting that companies are increasingly unwilling to commit to locations where their workforce cannot afford to live nearby. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act may offer part of the solution. This legislation passed both chambers with bipartisan support, has recently become law, and represents the most significant federal housing package since 1990. This blog summarizes the relevant provisions for state economic development agencies to be aware of, including housing support for middle-income workers, new grant funding and more.

Putting State Dollars to Work: How Governors’ Signature Investments Drive Workforce Transformation (The Project on Workforce) Governors occupy a distinct position in the American workforce development ecosystem, influencing how both federal and state workforce dollars are deployed. Many Governors are using state-funded workforce investments to address labor shortages, support economic development priorities, and strengthen education-to-employment pathways. This report examines Governors’ “signature workforce investments” across five states: North Dakota, Minnesota, Idaho, Massachusetts, and Wyoming. Drawing on interviews with 45 stakeholders spanning Governors’ offices, state agencies, workforce organizations, higher education institutions, and industry, the report explores how those initiatives were designed, funded, implemented, and adapted over time.

NSF Awards 12 New Regional Innovation Engines to Fuel Research, Jobs, and Economic Growth Nationwide (NSF) The U.S. National Science Foundation announced it awarded the newest NSF Regional Innovation Engines awards to 12 U.S. teams across 20 states. These NSF Engines will build and scale innovation clusters that aim to accelerate the development of critical technologies, prepare talent for emerging jobs and grow regional economies. Each team, led by a coalition of regional organizations, including universities, nonprofits and private industry, will initially receive an award of $15 million over two years. Teams that demonstrate progress on well-defined milestones will have the potential to eventually receive up to $160 million each from NSF over the next decade as they seek to build an internationally competitive technology and innovation cluster in their region. Awards range from critical minerals, grid modernization, biomanufacturing, and other key technologies.

States Enable, Regions Thrive: A State Playbook for Growing Good Jobs in the Next Economy (Brookings) As voters head to the polls in 2026 to elect 36 governors and thousands of state legislators, the economy remains their top concern. In this moment, the challenge is clear for governors and legislators: Modernize economic development systems to create the enabling conditions needed so that these forces grow good jobs and expand economic mobility, rather than deepen divides. Accomplishing this requires a structural shift. This playbook highlights five ways to modernize state economic development: define direction, make regions investable, align capital, learn and scale, and run as one team. Evidence from across the country, including efforts in Virginia, New York, and Indiana, shows that when states align their authority, funding, and strategy with empowered regional cross-sector coalitions, they can unlock levels of coordination, co-investment, and growth that fragmented systems simply cannot achieve.

Rick Siger, Secretary, PA Department of Community and Economic Development  

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State Leaders on the Move

Puerto Rico Department of Economic Development and Commerce

We’re pleased to share recent leadership changes across State Economic Development leaders. Join us in celebrating these transitions and welcoming new leaders to our community!

How State-Level Partnerships Help Local Michigan Economies Grow and Prosper (Detroit Free Press) Recently announced business development projects in Detroit (R&D for 3D printed concrete homes), Troy (advanced EVs), and Fenton (nut milk extraction technology) will add 650 new jobs across three Southeast Michigan counties and are expected to bring more than $97 million in capital investment to local communities. Funding is tied to measurable outcomes, with businesses receiving support only after meeting agreed-upon performance milestones.

After World Cup, State Works to Lure FIFA Fans Back to Georgia (WSB-TV Atlanta) During Atlanta’s FIFA World Cup matches, Georgia’s Department of Economic Development hosted a reception for its “Georgia, the Whole Day Through” exhibit at the Georgia World Congress Center — a free, interactive experience that had run throughout the tournament showcasing the state’s food, art, music, and communities beyond Atlanta, from Savannah to Augusta to Lake Lanier. The state framed the roughly 70,000 World Cup tourists as a huge opportunity, drawing comparisons to how the 1996 Olympics boosted Georgia’s global profile, and got many of those visitors to sign up to return. The event hosted local businesses and representatives from communities across the state, showcasing what Georgia has to offer.

Arkansas Economic Development Commission Announces $12M in Funding (Arkansas Governor) Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, alongside the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, announced more than $12.52 million in funding for Arkansas cities, counties, and communities. The 88 grants were awarded from the Community Development Block Grant (CDGB) and State Rural Community Grant programs. State CDBG funds are utilized for a variety of public facility and infrastructure projects, including senior centers, childcare centers, public health facilities, youth centers, flood control and drainage projects, as well as economic development grants. The Rural Services Block Grant program funds new construction or renovation of community centers, fire stations, or multi-purpose buildings, while the Rural Community Grant Program is used to fund projects such as fire trucks, fire protection equipment, community centers, storm sirens, community parks, and walking trails.

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Block Your Calendar: Colorado Hosts Fall SEDE Meeting – 10/15 – 16 (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network is holding its fall meeting for state economic development executives or their top deputy in Denver, Colorado. Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade, is excited to bring SEDE executives to the Mile High City with the meeting beginning at 9 am on October 15^th and concluding in the early afternoon of the 16^th with a tour of Colorado industry in the afternoon. More information will be available in the coming weeks.

What Communities Should Know About Data Centers (CREC) The CREC blog highlights the race to build data centers and how the competition is reshaping local economies faster than almost any other real estate trend. The sector is drawing billions in venture capital and now consumes up to eight percent of total U.S. electricity. For local communities, that growth is arriving with both a windfall and a set of tradeoffs: improved fiber and broadband networks, short-term and permanent job gains, and large tax receipts on one side, with infrastructure demands, public health concerns, and general local opposition on the other.

Child Care as Economic Infrastructure (SEDE) Economic development succeeds when talent, capital, and employer demand line up; child care now sits squarely inside that equation. This brief for state economic development leaders shares how child care is increasingly considered economic development infrastructure, not just a social program. Because inadequate access slows growth, these brief offers solutions being implemented by different states such as tax credits or cost-sharing programs, and the implications for state leaders and ideas to finance programs.

Webinar — Assessing State and Local Incentives for Attracting New Energy Investment (RMI) This June webinar was hosted by RMI and the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research to share research on the state and local government incentives to attract and grow project-level investment in electricity infrastructure, clean fuels, and new energy technology manufacturing. 

New Resources: State Intel Briefs, Defense Industry Reports, and Issue Briefs (Manufacturing Momentum) CREC’s Manufacturing Momentum network has published numerous resources on defense manufacturing relevant to state leaders:

• State Intelligence Briefs: These briefs were developed to support the DoD Manufacturing Innovation Institutes’ (MIIs) strategy, regional partnership, and defense industrial base engagement. The state level information, investment details, and actionable recommendations are useful for planning and partnership. Thus far, briefs are published for nearly 30 states, with more to come in the coming weeks.
• Biomanufacturing Talent for U.S. National Security & Economic Competitiveness: This workforce report examines the landscape for U.S. biomanufacturing, a DoD Critical Technology Area essential to domestic production of biofuels, bio-based materials, and other defense-critical capabilities. 
• Electronics Talent for U.S. National Security & Economic Competitiveness: This industry report analyzes the workforce underpinning U.S. electronics and semiconductor manufacturing—a sector critical to defense systems ranging from precision munitions and unmanned vehicles to submarine sonar and photonics-enabled targeting. 
• Defense Manufacturing Issue Briefs: This series of 3 briefs are designed to inform local and state government officials, workforce professionals, and manufacturers about important issues that impact their local economy and workforce training.

Incentives Blogs (SEDE) Incentives continues to be an important element of economic development and the SEDE network is excited to share four state incentive blogs, all from Smart Incentives:  

• Smart Incentives: Incentives for Entrepreneurial Firms analyzes state and local incentives for entrepreneurial firms and offers guidance for offering them.
• Ellen Harpel, Randall Bauer, and Joe Buckson: Incentives Best Practices summarizes ten best practices the PFM and Smart Incentives team identified from dozens of state incentive evaluations conducted since 2020. The authors note these practices may need to be weighed against one another and observe that states alone offer more than 2,000 incentive programs costing billions, which is driving more governments to evaluate their portfolios rigorously.
• Smart Incentives: Incentives that Work: A guide for designing and managing effective programs addresses whether incentives work, concluding that they influence business decisions but are not solely responsible for them, and that they generate positive outcomes only with sound program design and implementation. It argues for crafting competitive packages by combining multiple program components and partner offerings, and for shifting from a program-management mindset to an investment-partner one.
• Smart Incentives: Incentives 101 – The Essential Concepts presentation defines different business incentives and identifies six incentive types: financial, tax, regulatory, workforce, site- or zone-based, and services. It closes with four takeaways: incentives should serve economic development goals rather than only winning deals, governments use many incentive types beyond tax breaks, economic developers can adopt procedures for sound decisions, and those procedures help answer whether incentives are working.

How Has Federal Spending on Place-Based Programs Changed Over Time? (Urban Institute) Between 2010 and 2024, federal spending on the country’s largest recurring place-based programs climbed from roughly $44.1 billion to $60.7 billion in inflation-adjusted terms, yet direct program spending fell over that same span. Urban Institute’s report traces this shift across 13 programs and finds that tax expenditures like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and Opportunity Zones now account for 84 percent of tracked spending, up from 66 percent in 2010, handing the private sector a larger say in where federal dollars land. If you are deciding whether current funding matches the needs of your community, or you are interested in who now directs these investments, you should read this report.

Analysis of the Manufacturing USA Occupation and Competency Framework (NIST) This analysis describes the most common entry-level occupations in advanced manufacturing across the technology areas associated with the Manufacturing USA network through 2030. This review identifies occupations connected to the knowledge, skills, and abilities that workers need, as of 2025 and into the future, to work with cutting-edge manufacturing technologies across technology areas (biomanufacturing, digital/automation, electronics, energy/processes, materials). The objective of this framework is to provide a common language for and improve collaboration between industry, training providers, and workers.

Ellen McNair, Secretary of Commerce, Alabama Department of Commerce

Vermont Incentive Program Update CREC is proud to have contributed to a meaningful policy outcome in Vermont this summer. On June 8th, Governor Phil Scott signed S.327 into law, permanently extending the Vermont Employment Growth Incentive (VEGI) program. This is the state’s only performance-based business incentive, which had been facing a 2027 sunset. CREC evaluated the program and supported the annual VEPC retreat where the Council invited stakeholders and legislators, helping equip state officials with the evidence and analysis needed to make the case for VEGI’s future. With the sunset repealed, Vermont businesses can now plan with greater certainty, knowing that a proven tool for job creation and business investment will remain available for years to come.

JetZero Expected to Create $250B in Economic Impact for North Carolina (WXII 12) JetZero broke ground on a $4.7 billion manufacturing facility at Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, marking the start of a project that promises to create over 14,500 jobs and produce innovative, fuel-efficient aircraft. JetZero’s design for its Z4 aircraft, which will use blended-wing design, is projected to be up to 50% more fuel-efficient than traditional planes. The company aims to have its Z4 aircraft in the sky by the early 2030s.

Utah Launches “Utah Elevated” Strategic Economic Plan (Governor’s Office of Economic Development) The Governor’s Office of Economic Development formally launched the Utah Elevated economic development plan, while also announcing legislation that changes the name of Utah’s economic development office to the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) and establishes a new statewide Economic Development Council that is central to the Utah Elevated plan. The plan marks a shift to a more coordinated, outbound economic development posture for Utah and GOED. GOED will take a central role in coordinating statewide economic development projects and the plan identifies ways for the state to understand clusters of activity and includes methodology focused on quality of life and broader economic scoring.

Ohio Investing More than $11.7M to Support Communities and Fuel Business Growth (Ohio DED) The Ohio Department of Development announced the release of more than $11.7 million through three state-funded programs that will enhance communities and support business expansion. Of the investments, more than $9 million has been designated to improve community infrastructure through the Roadwork Development Grant (629) Program, which provides funding to local jurisdictions with an economic development project to assist with eligible public roadwork improvements. It also helps employers in creating or preserving employment opportunities. The other funded programs are the 166 Direct Loan Servicing program, which aids businesses that have been previously approved for a loan by the state of Ohio’s Controlling Board, and the Regional 166 Direct Loan program which provides low-interest loans to businesses with limited access to adequate capital from private funding sources.

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SEDE Spring Meeting: What’s on the Minds of State Economic Development Leaders? (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives Network (SEDE) recently gathered near the SelectUSA Investment Summit for a half-day meeting of state economic development leaders from across the country. The conversation covered a lot of ground — and reflected just how much the landscape has shifted for states trying to attract investment, develop talent, and make the case for what they do. Key focus areas included energy, water resources, and workforce development. Discussions around how state strategies are being reassessed was also a major topic. The next meeting will be held this fall in Denver, Colorado.

June 9: Webinar – Navigating the Mechanics of State Employment Data (SEDE) For state economic development leaders, employment data is more than just a statistic—it is the foundation for policy, investment, and strategic planning. However, the transition from initial monthly estimates to final benchmarked data often introduces shifts that can impact regional narratives and economic forecasting. Join the SEDE Network for a briefing designed to pull back the curtain on the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data lifecycle, featuring Julie Hatch from BLS and Mark McInerney from the Maine Department of Labor. Join us on June 9, at 2:00PM ET. Register here.

Block Your Calendar: Colorado Hosts Fall SEDE Meeting – 10/15 – 16 (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network is holding its fall meeting for state economic development executives or their top deputy in Denver, Colorado. Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade, is excited to bring SEDE executives to the Mile High City on October 15^th and 16^th. More information will be available in the coming weeks.

Department of Commerce Announces $25M Notice of Funding Opportunity to Upskill American Workers in AI (EDA) The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $25 million in funding as part of a new AI Upskill Accelerator Pilot Program. This initiative will support the design and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) workforce training, helping to train workers and grow industries that are integral to regional economies. EDA encourages applications from eligible entities seeking to implement industry-led workforce programs that use sectoral partnerships to deliver measurable results for American workers and businesses.

2026 SelectUSA Investment Summit Catalyzed Over $56B in Investment Commitments and Plans (ITA) The U.S. Department of Commerce hosted the 2026 SelectUSA Investment Summit, and it was the largest in its history. Held May 3-6 in National Habor, Maryland, the Investment Summit welcomed over 5,500 attendees from a record 100+ international markets and included over 1,100 economic developers representing all 55 U.S. states and territories. This year’s Investment Summit catalyzed more than $56 billion in new and planned investment commitments, including a record $2.5 billion in announcements made during the Summit and tens of billions more in ongoing and planned investments from key international partners.

New Resources: State Intel Briefs, Defense Industry Reports, and Issue Briefs (Manufacturing Momentum) CREC’s Manufacturing Momentum network has published numerous resources on defense manufacturing relevant to state leaders:

• State Intelligence Briefs: These briefs were developed to support the DoD Manufacturing Innovation Institutes’ (MIIs) strategy, regional partnership, and defense industrial base engagement. The state level information, investment detail, and actionable recommendations are useful for planning and partnership. Thus far, briefs are published for 13 states – with 17 more to come in the coming weeks and another 20 in the coming months.
• Biomanufacturing Talent for U.S. National Security & Economic Competitiveness: This workforce report examines the landscape for U.S. biomanufacturing, a DoD Critical Technology Area essential to domestic production of biofuels, bio-based materials, and other defense-critical capabilities. 
• Electronics Talent for U.S. National Security & Economic Competitiveness: This industry report analyzes the workforce underpinning U.S. electronics and semiconductor manufacturing—a sector critical to defense systems ranging from precision munitions and unmanned vehicles to submarine sonar and photonics-enabled targeting. 
• Defense Manufacturing Issue Briefs: This series of 3 briefs are designed to inform local and state government officials, workforce professionals, and manufacturers about important issues that impact their local economy and workforce training.

Quentin Messer, Jr., Chief Executive & Economic Competitiveness Officer, Michigan Economic Development Corporation

Purdue Regional Clusters (Purdue Center for Regional Development) The global economy is moving away from simply production to value-added production and specialized services, to contribute to the knowledge economy. Data and metrics are needed to understand competitive industry clusters, and skills and knowledge present in the labor force. The Regional Clusters dashboards designed by Purdue with support from EDA provides a framework to understand the regional economic competitiveness in industries and occupations.

Alabama’s Playbook for Jobs, Growth, and Economic Opportunity (McKinsey) In this interview, Ellen McNair, the Secretary of Commerce for Alabama, discusses the state’s CatALyst economic development strategy and the value of strong partnerships in driving investment and inclusive growth. McNair discusses McNair her vision for inclusive economic growth, the role of state-level leadership in expanding opportunity, and the positive impact of development on Alabamians. One highlight is the discussion on the state’s Economic Development Fund, which will be implemented in 2026 and is expected to significantly increase the agency’s economic development funding.

Rhode Island’s First Life Sciences Startup Incubator Opens (Brown University) In May, Ocean State Labs, the state’s first life sciences incubator opened. The incubator will provide early-stage biotechnology and medical companies with laboratory space, infrastructure and operational support as they grow and bring scientific discoveries to the marketplace. Ocean State Labs is led by the Rhode Island Life Sciences Hub in partnership with the State of Rhode Island, the I-195 Redevelopment District, Brown and L&G Asset Management America.

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April 28: Webinar – Manufacturing Innovation Institutes and State Economic Development Organizations (SEDE) Department of Defense Manufacturing Innovation Institutes (MIIs) are driving innovation in critical technology sectors — but maximizing their impact often depends on creating the right partnerships. Join Manufacturing Momentum and the State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network for a presentation and panel discussion featuring leaders from AIM Photonics and Empire State Development (ESD). They will share how their partnership took shape, what each organization brought to the table, and the tangible benefits that followed. This webinar will provide a cooperative template for MIIs and state economic development agencies. Join us on April 28, at 3:00PM ET. Register here.

May 4: SEDE Summer Meeting (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network is holding its summer meeting for state economic development executives or their top deputy in Washington, DC on the afternoon of May 4^th in conjunction with SelectUSA activities. Leaders are encouraged to attend SelectUSA and take time to stop over for this Monday morning SEDE meeting which will be just two blocks from the Investment Summit. Much of the meeting will be dedicated to opportunities for networking among the state economic development commissioners, secretaries and executive directors or their top deputy. Register here.

Block Your Calendar: Colorado Hosts Fall SEDE Meeting – 10/15 – 16 (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network is holding its fall meeting for state economic development executives or their top deputy in Denver, Colorado. Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade, is excited to bring SEDE executives to the Mile High City on October 15^th and 16^th. More information will be available in the coming weeks.

TechAccess: AI-Ready America (NSF) TechAccess: AI-Ready America is a national-scale initiative to accelerate Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness and adoption across the U.S. by strengthening coordination, leveraging partnerships and resources, filling gaps, and scaling what works—so local and state priorities can lead in shaping an AI-driven economy that benefits all Americans.This funding opportunity focuses on Coordination Hubs. An award will be awarded in each state and territory to Hubs who will serve as the center of state/territory-wide coordination to accelerate AI readiness and deployment. Hubs will focus on coordinating with a National Lead and accelerating AI readiness training and developing a strategic plan. Letters of Intent are due by July 16^th.

U.S. DOL Announces $85M in Grant Funding to Support Registered Apprenticeship Expansion (USDOL) The U.S. Department of Labor announced the availability of approximately $85 million in funding to help states and territories fuel Registered Apprenticeship expansion. Administered by the Department’s Employment and Training Administration, the fourth round of State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula (SAEF) grants provide direct funding to states and territories based on a newperformance-based formula. The formula rewards states for recent growth in active and new apprentices and encourages strategies that increase employer participation. States with federally recognized State Apprenticeship agencies must also now publish average program approval times to increase transparency and accountability in the registration process. 

President’s FY27 Budget Request Summary (NADO) On April 3rd 2026, the White House released the President’s FY 2027 (FY27) discretionary budget request to Congress, outlining the administration’s proposal for spending for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2026.The summary includes proposed cuts and additions that impact states and Regional Development Organizations, such as the elimination of the Economic Development Administration and a $1.3B increase in the Big, Beautiful Infrastructure program at DOT.

Adriana Cruz, Executive Director, Economic Development and Tourism, Office of Governor Greg Abbott

Massachusetts Files Mass Wins Act to Create Jobs, Lower Costs, and Attract Global Investment (Mass.gov) Governor Maura Healey filed the Mass Wins Act, an economic development bill that positions Massachusetts as a global destination for companies looking to invest, grow and create jobs in the United States, while strengthening the state’s competitiveness and lowering costs for businesses. Building on the progress of the Mass Leads Act, the proposal reflects a changing economic landscape and the need for continued, strategic investment to maintain Massachusetts’ leadership in key industries such as artificial intelligence, quantum, climate tech, defense and robotics.The bill includes $305 million in capital authorizations and is organized around five core pillars focused on driving innovation, reducing barriers to growth, expanding access to opportunity, supporting business development, and strengthening the state’s long-term economic foundations.

New Mexico Invests Up to $8M to Train 398 Workers (New Mexico EDD) The New Mexico Economic Development Department’s Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) approved funding for eighteen companies to hire, train, and upskill 398 workers in the first quarter of 2026. These awards support key growth industries, including intelligent manufacturing, aerospace, value-added agriculture, green energy, and film and media. JTIP funding covers at least 50% of trainee wages for up to six months. The reimbursement percentage is higher for jobs located in rural and frontier areas, companies hiring New Mexico graduates, and other criteria that encourage local hiring. Companies include those specializing in defense and space tech, high-precision manufacturing, and quantum sensors.

Maryland Unveils First Public-Private Partnership Center (The Southern Maryland Chronicle) The creation of the Maryland Center for Public-Private Partnerships was announced at the Maryland Economic Development Corporation. The new center aims to speed economic development and deliver critical infrastructure projects by uniting public and private sector resources across the state. The center marks the first initiative of its kind in Maryland. It will connect state and local governments with private developers, universities, and nonprofit organizations to tackle complex challenges through innovative financing and partnership models.

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April 28: Manufacturing Innovation Institutes and State Economic Development Organizations (SEDE) Department of Defense Manufacturing Innovation Institutes (MIIs) are driving innovation in critical technology sectors — but maximizing their impact often depends on creating the right partnerships. Join Manufacturing Momentum and the State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network for a presentation and panel discussion featuring leaders from AIM Photonics and Empire State Development (ESD). They’ll share how their partnership took shape, what each organization brought to the table, and the tangible benefits that followed. This webinar will provide a cooperative template for MIIs and state economic development agencies. Join us on April 28, at 3:00PM ET. Register here.

May 4: SEDE Summer Meeting (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network is holding its summer meeting for state economic development executives or their top deputy in Washington, DC on the afternoon of May 4^th in conjunction with SelectUSA activities. Leaders are encouraged to attend SelectUSA and take time to stop over for this afternoon SEDE meeting which will be just two blocks from the Investment Summit. Much of the meeting will be dedicated to opportunities for networking among the state economic development commissioners, secretaries and executive directors or their top deputy. Register here.

Webinar Recording: Leveraging University Economic Development Partners (SEDE) Members of the State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network were invited to a webinar to learn about the role of the University Economic Development Association (UEDA), how it supports state economic development priorities, and where SEDE members can engage with and benefit from the UEDA network. Michael Aikens and Andrea Kruszka of Tennessee Tech University’s Center for Rural Innovation shared their extensive experience working at the intersection of universities, rural communities, and state partners, and offered lessons on how to strengthen the state-university partnership. View the recording here.

Energy/Economic Development Community of Practice RMI, the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO), and CREC are piloting a community of practice (CoP) to help state energy policymakers and economic development leaders build joint public/private investment strategies for the new electro-industrial era. Pilot programming includes monthly virtual sessions starting in February 2026 and an in-person working retreat in Colorado in July. For more information on how state economic development leaders can participate, please contact Aaron Brickman (abrickman@rmi.org) or Lachlan Carey (lcarey@rmi.org).

Midwestern Governor’s Association Webinar Series: Electricity Affordability (MGA) In the face of unprecedented load growth in the U.S., many states are experiencing increases in the cost of electricity. Members of the SEDE network are invited to a five-webinar series hosted by the Midwestern Governors Association that will discuss energy affordability from a variety of perspectives. These webinars will be useful regardless of where your state is located. Webinar topics will include: trends in affordability, how state governments are responding, affordability in a time of system investment, community engagement, and affordability in the news. Register here.

Ashely Teasdel, Deputy Secretary of Commerce, South Carolina Department of Commerce

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State Leaders on the Move

New Jersey Economic Development Authority

We’re pleased to share recent leadership changes across State Economic Development leaders. Join us in celebrating these transitions and welcoming new leaders to our community!

Overview of Governors’ State of the State & Budget Addresses (SSTI) More than half of the governors have either delivered their 2026 State of the State, their FY27 Budget addresses, or a combination of the two, laying out their priorities for the coming year. While all addresses so far generally touched on economic development successes and initiatives or more traditional economic development activities like site development or shovel-ready programs and business attraction funding, several governors have included proposals for growing stronger innovation economies built upon TBED and innovation initiatives. The states where governors have specifically discussed proposed innovation agendas include Arizona, Delaware, Illinois, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.

Texas Unveils New Job Council to Address High-Skilled Worker Demand (San Antonio Today) Governor Greg Abbott announced the creation of the Texas Jobs Council, a partnership between business and labor leaders aimed at enhancing workforce training to meet the high demand for high-skilled labor positions in Texas. By bringing together business and labor leaders, the Texas Jobs Council aims to identify and address gaps in workforce training to ensure the state can continue to meet the demand for high-skilled workers in key industries like manufacturing, construction, and energy.

State Approaches to Short-Term Credentials: Lessons (So Far) From Lumina Foundation’s FutureReady States Initiative (Lumina Foundation) Across Lumina Foundation’s FutureReady States (FRS) initiative, a cohort of states is taking coordinated action to strengthen their short-term credential ecosystems; they aim to ensure that state investments in nondegree credentials produce clear economic and social returns for their residents. This multi-state analysis synthesizes findings from state landscape assessments developed by the FRS states and their intermediary partners by drawing out cross-cutting themes, persistent challenges, and emerging opportunities to help inform the next phase of planning and implementation. Lessons learned includes the importance of prioritizing state funding for credentials with clear evidence of strong labor-market value, enhance data systems for decision-making, and strengthen employer engagement.

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March 19: SEDE-UEDA Webinar (SEDE) Members of the State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network are invited to a webinar to learn about the role of the University Economic Development Association (UEDA), how it supports state economic development priorities, and where SEDE members can engage with and benefit from the UEDA network. Michael Aikens and Andrea Kruszka of Tennessee Tech University’s Center for Rural Innovation will lead the webinar and draw on their extensive experience working at the intersection of universities, rural communities, and state partners. Join us on March 19, at 3:00PM ET. Register here.

May 4: SEDE Summer Meeting (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network is holding its summer meeting for state economic development executives or their top deputy in Washington, DC on the afternoon of May 4^th in conjunction with SelectUSA activities. Leaders are encouraged to attend SelectUSA and take time to stop over for this afternoon SEDE meeting which will be just two blocks from the Investment Summit. Much of the meeting will be dedicated to opportunities for networking among the state economic development commissioners, secretaries and executive directors or their top deputy. Register here.

Energy/Economic Development Community of Practice RMI, the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO), and CREC are piloting a community of practice (CoP) to help state energy policymakers and economic development leaders build joint public/private investment strategies for the new electro-industrial era. Pilot programming includes monthly virtual sessions starting in February 2026 and an in-person working retreat in Colorado in July. For more information on how state economic development leaders can participate, please contact Aaron Brickman (abrickman@rmi.org) or Lachlan Carey (lcarey@rmi.org).

Brookings: Turning the Data Center Boom into Long-Term, Local Prosperity (Brookings) The AI goldrush roars on. Hyperscalers like Google and artificial intelligence (AI) upstarts like OpenAI continue to pour massive sums into building gargantuan data centers, often in small- and medium-sized communities. However, local leaders are questioning the credibility of Big Tech’s promises of spillover effects that will produce high-quality economic development beyond near-term construction.

Data Under Pressure: What’s Breaking (and What Still Works) in Economic Intelligence (Strata Platforms) Public economic data systems are being stretched thinner at the same time local decision-making depends on them more than ever. Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness CEO Ken Poole joins Strata Platforms’ podcast to explain what’s happening behind the scenes at federal data agencies, and why staffing cuts, privacy constraints, and rising demand for localized details are changing how workforce and economic data should be interpreted.

Christopher Chung, Chief Executive Officer, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina

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State Leaders on the Move

New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs

We’re pleased to share recent leadership changes across State Economic Development leaders. Join us in celebrating these transitions and welcoming new leaders to our community!

Virginia Commits $14.5M Yearly for New Paid Internship Program (Virginia Business) InternshipsVA, a new statewide program to support paid internships, will provide grants for small and mid-sized employers that provide a 50% match for interns’ wages, as well as recruitment, program design, and training resources for participating employers. The state will provide $14.5 million a year to the program.

Promising State for AI Accelerator-Stage Companies (Excel Regional Solutions) Startups working with artificial intelligence in the accelerators or incubators stage are looking for locations across the country. Many likely are headed to California—but many other states not only have strong levels of activity but may feature better market fits for certain entrepreneurs. States like New York and Delaware are also strong for accelerators, while Minnesota has a strong number of startup resources supporting AI ventures. These indicators of recent performance are important: Is your region capturing its fair share of AI startup activity? Are your accelerator programs providing sufficient support to advance startups toward additional investment and successful exits?

Out of Sight, Out of Data – How Lack of Good Data on Rural Workforces Stymies Planning (Burning Glass) When rural work, learning, and mobility are invisible in data, communities are locked out of investment, planning, and opportunity. This analysis outlines practical ways to modernize workforce and education data so rural communities are better represented which allows better services. Solutions include designing data systems in partnership with rural communities, expanding who and what counts in existing datasets, and piloting next-generation tools that capture nonlinear work and learning pathways.

SEDE Hosts Meeting for Top Executives (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network is holding its summer meeting for state economic development executives or their top deputy in Washington, DC on the afternoon of May 4^th in conjunction with SelectUSA activities. Leaders are encouraged to attend SelectUSA and take time to stop over for this afternoon SEDE meeting which will be just two blocks from the Investment Summit. Much of the meeting will be dedicated to opportunities for networking among the state economic development commissioners, secretaries and executive directors or their top deputy. Registration and agenda will be available in the coming weeks.

Proposed Biomanufacturing Center May Create Competition Among States (SSTI) The proposed Biomanufacturing Excellence Act approves a single National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence within NIST. It  authorizes $120 million in FY 2026 for NIST to conduct a competitive process to select one non-federal entity to build and operate the center. Eligible applicants include public-private partnerships, institutions of higher education, and multi-institution consortia. Because only a single awardee will be chosen, the proposed legislation likely sets up what is likely to be a stiff competition among many states which have made life sciences and manufacturing key elements of their innovation strategies. These criteria seem to strongly favor regions where industry, academia, and government already collaborate around biomanufacturing.

Rural Economic Development Tool (Center on Rural Innovation) Every strong local economy is built on good decisions. Good decisions start with clear data. CORI’s Rural Economic Development Tool helps rural leaders move from raw numbers to real insight. It brings together 25 critical indicators, spanning workforce, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, and quality of life, so communities can see what’s working, where opportunity is emerging, and where action matters most. This is data designed to support strategy, strengthen grant applications, and guide long-term investment – without requiring a data team or technical expertise.

Webinar Recap: Use AI to Research Key Stakeholders and Partners (Building Better Regions EDA CoP) This webinar, hosted by the Building Better Regions Community of Practice, shared information on how participants could leverage AI tools to make stakeholder engagement more responsive, efficient, and impactful. AI can assist with gaining a deeper understanding of a partner or organization that you may be interested in partnering with or receiving funding from, conducting deep research to be better informed when engaging. A recording of the webinar can be found here.

Andrew Deye, Vice President of Strategy, JobsOhio

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State Leaders on the Move

Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade

We’re pleased to share recent leadership changes across State Economic Development leaders. Join us in celebrating these transitions and welcoming new leaders to our community!

Meeting the Childcare Challenge: Opportunities for Economic Development Districts (NADO) Childcare costs and shortages are increasingly recognized as barriers to comprehensive regional development. This report examines the drivers of the challenge and the impact it has had in communities across the country. It highlights roles that EDDs are playing to increase childcare accessibility, quality, and affordability in their communities, and has recommendations for districts who have not yet been involved with childcare initiatives. 

New York Could Offer Universal Childcare in $4.5B Plan (Newsweek) New York has taken the first step toward significantly expanding access to free and low-cost childcare for children under five in the state, with universal child care for those under two in New York City. The move puts NYC to be the first city in the nation to provide free universal childcare.

DoD to Invest $1B into Company with Regional Presence (Dayton Daily News) The U.S. Department of Defense will invest $1 billion into L3Harris Technologies to expand production of solid rocket motors. The announcement marks the first direct-to-supplier of this kind. The investment will expand production capacity in Ohio.

Issue 88, December 2025

A Summary of Cutting-Edge Articles Affecting States

HEADLINES

SEDE News 🗞️

• SEDE Member Spotlight: Eric Paley, Secretary of Economic Development, Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development
• SEDE Members on the Move: Washington State Department of Commerce
• Manufacturing Momentum Summit: 2025 Report (Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness)
• Opportunity Zones 2.0: A Guide for Governors and Mayors (Economic Innovation Group)
• NSF TIP Launches Investment Explorer (NSF)

Economy and Trade💰

• The Coalition Imperative: A Guidebook for How Regions Can Sustain Coalitions (Brookings)
• The Nation’s Data at Risk: 2025 Report (American Statistical Association)
• Economy in Place Data Visualization Platform (Harvard Kennedy School)
• Advancing Regional Innovation Economies (Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center)
• Military Spending in Louisiana Up 77%, Generating $17B in Economic Impact (Louisiana Economic Development)

Workforce ⚒️

• Sustaining Strong Rural Partnerships to Serve Student and Workforce Development Needs (RAND)
• State Snapshots of Early Childcare and Education (Urban Institute)
• Meeting the Childcare Challenge: Opportunities for EDDs (NADO)
• NY Announces $40M for Workforce Development in Advanced Nuclear Energy (New York State)
• How Virginia Just Redefines the Future of its Biopharma Workforce (BioBuzz)

Business Expansions and Incentives 📊

• Austin, TX New Deal with Southwest Airlines to Add 2,000 Jobs (KVUE-TV Austin)
• California Awards $100M in Tax Credits to 9 Companies (Manufacturing Dive)
• Rockwell Automation to Build Wisconsin Factory in $2B U.S. Expansion (Start-Midwest)

SEDE News 🗞️

SEDE Member Spotlight: Eric Paley, Secretary of Economic Development, Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development

Paley joined Massachusetts EOED in September 2025. For more than 25 years prior to entering state government, Paley worked to shape the innovation economy as both a successful entrepreneur and a leading venture capitalist. As co-founder and Managing Partner of Founder Collective, Paley helped build one of the world’s highest-performing seed-stage venture capital funds. His investment portfolio includes groundbreaking technology companies across diverse sectors such as transportation, media, healthcare, consumer, advanced manufacturing and enterprise software, including Uber (NYSE), The Trade Desk (NSDQ), Omada Health, Whoop, Formlabs and Airtable. He served on the Board of Directors of The Trade Desk from its founding until 2023, including as a public director after the company’s IPO in 2016. At Founder Collective, Paley also launched Collective Future, an annual Boston conference bringing together Massachusetts’ most influential innovators across technology, government, media, cultural and non-profit sectors to collaboratively shape the future of the innovation economy.

Paley holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College. He lives in Cambridge with his wife and two children. He previously served on the Board of Directors of the YMCA of Greater Boston and has been engaged in philanthropic efforts primarily to alleviate food insecurity in Massachusetts.

SEDE Members on the Move: Washington State Department of Commerce

We’re pleased to share recent leadership changes within the SEDE Network. Join us in celebrating these transitions and welcoming new leaders to our community!

Outgoing Leader: Grace Yoo, Assistant Director, Economic Development

Yoo served as Assistant Director and led the Office of Economic Development and Competitiveness teams at Commerce, including industry sector development, circular economy, rural and marketing services, small business export assistance, small business finance and community support, finance and grant services, and contracts and procurement. She has transitioned to Snohomish County, WA as the Strategic Sector Development Director.

Incoming Leader: Andrea Chartock, Assistant Director, Economic Development

Chartock has led economic development and competitiveness projects globally for over 25 years, including supporting small and medium-sized enterprises to increase sales, jobs, exports and attract investments in more than 30 countries. She has extensive experience in the industry sectors important to Washington, such as agriculture (tree fruit, grain and berries), information and communication technology, tourism, creative economy, industrial symbiosis, forest products and clean tech. Chartock has a master’s degree in international policy studies as well as an undergraduate degree with honors from Stanford University.

Manufacturing Momentum Summit: 2025 Report (Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness) U.S. manufacturers face serious workforce challenges reflecting rapid changes in technology that are changing the landscape of manufacturing. These changes will demand new skills and competencies that the current workforce system is not yet capable of supporting. The Manufacturing Momentum Summit, a national roundtable, provided a forum for finding solutions to the challenges facing the advanced manufacturing sector. Participants underscored the urgent need for data infrastructure, more consistent accountability systems, and better communication of workforce outcomes. The report is a summary of the discussions and insights from the August 2025 event.

Opportunity Zones 2.0: A Guide for Governors and Mayors (Economic Innovation Group) The 2025 Reconciliation Act calls on governors to act by the summer of 2026 by nominating one-quarter of their low-income census tracts for Opportunity Zone (OZ) status. The zone designation process therefore gives governors a rare opportunity to shape the landscape of investment in their states — and channel that investment towards the low-income communities that need it most. The guide will explain OZs and how they work, summarize the national process, and establish a framework for selecting zones with purpose. Experience from OZ 1.0 underscores that OZ designation alone does not generate investment. Only well-chosen zones paired with development-ready policies will attract capital and deliver impact at scale.

NSF TIP Launches Investment Explorer (NSF) The U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (NSF TIP) announced the launch of the TIP Investment Explorer, featuring a map and award data, to showcase the scale and impact of NSF TIP’s investments across the nation and in key technology areas. With the new TIP Investment Explorer, users can view interactive connections between lead awards and subawards, summary details by region and investment amounts, and at-a-glance visuals of funding levels.

Economy and Trade 💰

The Coalition Imperative: A Guidebook for How Regions Can Sustain Coalitions (Brookings) Cross-sector coalitions – public, private, nonprofit, and philanthropic actors working together on a shared, transformative vision that integrates talent, innovation, and placemaking strategies – offer a compelling approach to grow good jobs and expand economic mobility. When managed well, cross-sector coalitions can help regions achieve greater strategic alignment, resource efficiency, and economic resilience. It distills lessons into five foundational building blocks of cross-sector coalitions (aimed primarily at local and regional leaders), as well as five implications for the future of place-based economic policy (aimed primarily at policymakers and investors).

The Nation’s Data at Risk: 2025 Report (American Statistical Association) The nation’s federal statistical system is facing a period of unprecedented strain, uncertainty, and transformation. Since the American Statistical Association (ASA) began monitoring the health of the federal statistical agencies in 2023, the system’s core capacity has been tested by significant staff losses, funding shortfalls, and threats to statistical integrity. The report highlights challenges and opportunities across five dimensions: staffing and capacity; system structure and funding; innovation; congressional engagement; and stakeholder support and concludes with a set of nine new recommendations to strengthen and modernize the nation’s statistical foundation.

Economy in Place Data Visualization Platform (Harvard Kennedy School) Economy in Place is a new data visualization tool to explore local conditions and policies targeting place. It tracks conditions across 700+ commuting zones across the U.S., synthesizing data from a range of sources into interactive dashboards. The platform is practical for place-based practitioners, as it makes a range of data available in an integrated manner at the community zone level, and enables comparisons with neighboring and similar regions.

Advancing Regional Innovation Economies (Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center) Entrepreneurship doesn’t just power job creation, it underpins America’s global competitiveness, our communities’ resilience, and the promise of upward mobility. Small businesses account for nearly half of the U.S. workforce and two-thirds of new jobs. Findings show that entrepreneurial outcomes are patterned, not random, and that targeted interventions, private public partnerships, and data-driven policy can unlock untapped market potential in many communities. This report includes regional profiles of Columbus, Kansas City, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New Orleans, Pittsburgh, Portland, Richmond, and Seattle.

Military Spending in Louisiana Up 77%, Generating $17B in Economic Impact (Louisiana Economic Development) Military-related spending in Louisiana generated more than $17 billion in total economic activity during fiscal year 2024, according to a new statewide analysis released by Louisiana Economic Development. The report shows notable expansion in the state’s defense sector since the previous study four years ago, underscoring the military’s continued impact on jobs, investment and community development. The analysis examines military installations, defense contracts, and retiree and veteran spending to measure the military’s economic impact on the state and within LED’s eight defined regions.

Workforce ⚒️

Sustaining Strong Rural Partnerships to Serve Student and Workforce Development Needs (RAND) Rural regions across the United States are facing enduring challenges in aligning postsecondary education with industry and workforce development to advance economic mobility. The Tristate Energy and Advanced Manufacturing (TEAM) Consortium, which spans 45 counties across Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, brings together ten community colleges and 14 workforce development boards (WDBs) to serve a largely rural region. In this report, the authors examine the evolution of the TEAM Consortium from 2017 to 2025 and highlight how regional partnerships can tackle persistent workforce and economic development challenges in rural regions.

State Snapshots of Early Childcare and Education (Urban Institute) Nationwide, the current supply of infant and toddler early care and education (ECE) does not meet demand, and the costs of care are unaffordable for many families.  Snapshots of the ECE landscape for all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the United States overall can be found in this article.

Meeting the Childcare Challenge: Opportunities for EDDs (NADO) Childcare costs and shortages are increasingly recognized as barriers to comprehensive regional development. This report examines the drivers of the challenge and the impact it has had on communities across the country. It highlights roles that EDDs are playing to increase childcare accessibility, quality, and affordability in their communities, and has recommendations for districts who have not yet been involved with childcare initiatives.

NY Announces $40M for Workforce Development in Advanced Nuclear Energy (New York State) Governor Kathy Hochul announced $40 million in new annual workforce development funding over the next four years from the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to develop the workforce needed to support advanced nuclear energy in Upstate New York. The funding, approved by the NYPA Board of Trustees, will directly support the Governor’s call in June for the Power Authority to develop at least one gigawatt of advanced nuclear power in Upstate New York. The Power Authority board also awarded a total of $4 million to universities and organizations to develop and expand programs that prepare New Yorkers for high-demand careers in artificial intelligence, electromechanical trades, and advanced power systems to meet the evolving needs of the renewable energy sector.

How Virginia Just Redefines the Future of its Biopharma Workforce (BioBuzz) Three of the world’s most influential biopharma companies – AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, and Merck – announced a joint $120 million investment to build a workforce training center in Virginia. This investment is an indicator for how the future of life sciences talent will be built, distributed, and sustained across America. The new Virginia Center for Advanced Pharmaceutical Manufacturing (VCAPM) will anchor a statewide initiative designed to train 2,000 to 2,500 students annually through stackable credentials and degrees. If three global pharma powerhouses are willing to invest directly in regional talent creation, the message to other states and companies is clear: the competition for biomanufacturing growth will be won not by tax incentives, but by workforce readiness.

Business Expansions and Incentives 📊

Austin, TX New Deal with Southwest Airlines to Add 2,000 Jobs (KVUE-TV Austin) A deal approved between the Austin City Council and Southwest Airlines awards Southwest $2,750 for each new Austin-based hire over the next five years. In exchange, the airline plans to add 2,000 high-paying jobs with an average salary of $180,000 and invest in local workforce initiatives. The partnership is expected to bring in nearly $20 million in local tax revenue, and the incentive program will last for five years and pay Southwest up to $5.5 million. Southwest will also donate 10% of its per-job incentive to the city’s new child care assistance fund, and the funding will be contingent upon performance and compliance evaluations.

California Awards $100M in Tax Credits to 9 Companies (Manufacturing Dive) The California Office of Business and Economic Development awarded $99.9 million in tax credits to nine companies that plan to establish or expand manufacturing operations in the state. The tax incentives, dubbed CalCompetes, will bring in more than $370 million in investments to California. The tax credits will also support an estimated 2,752 jobs, with an average annual salary of $139,000. The nine manufacturers include those that produce aerospace components, data center infrastructure components, and diagnostic devices.

Rockwell Automation to Build Wisconsin Factory in $2B U.S. Expansion (Start-Midwest) Wisconsin industrial automation technology giant Rockwell Automation recently announced plans to build a new greenfield manufacturing site in Southeastern Wisconsin, as part of a broader effort to expand its U.S. production and digital capabilities. According to Rockwell, it will be their largest manufacturing campus in the world, spanning over 1 million square feet. The project will integrate the latest production technologies, including AI and analytics tools, to provide employees with access to advanced technologies and training.

The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network engages in regular events throughout the year. State Economic Development.org lists these activities and offers an interactive forum for discussion among peers. The SEDE Steering Committee includes: Sandra Watson (AZ), Chair; Clint O’Neal (AR); Quentin Messer (MI), Kevin McKinnon (MN); Michelle Hataway (MO); Thomas Burns (NV) Hope Knight (NY); Christopher Chung (NC); Andrew Deye (OH); Sophorn Cheang (OR); Ashely Teasdel (SC), Adriana Cruz (TX).

Allison Ulaky of the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC) led the development of this Bulletin; for questions on the content in this Bulletin or for information on the SEDE Network contact Bob Isaacson, CREC Senior Vice President.

Issue 87, November 2025

A Summary of Cutting-Edge Articles Affecting States

HEADLINES

SEDE News 🗞️

• SEDE Steering Committee Member Spotlight: Tom Burns, Executive Director, Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development
• SEDE Members on the Move: Nebraska Department of Economic Development
• The Government is Back Open. Here’s What that Means for Economic Data (CNN)
• New Funding for Workforce Pilots in the Great Lakes/Midwest Region (DoD; M-EWD)
• Webinar Series: Nuclear Energy in the Midwest (Midwestern Governors Association)
• DoE Announces $355M to Expand Domestic Production of Critical Minerals and Materials (DoE)
• The Case for Manufactured Housing (The Pew Charitable Trusts)

Economy and Trade💰

• Tariff Dashboard: Tracking the Evolution of US Tariffs (UN Trade & Development)
• Data Tool: The American Affordability Tracker (Urban Institute)
• Unlocking Local Leadership: Why Rural People Step Forward to Help Their Communities (Gallup)
• Addressing the Impacts of Changing U.S. Trade Policy (State of Colorado)

Workforce ⚒️

• How Universities Are Driving Regional Economic Growth (University Economic Development Association)
• Eastern Kentucky Workforce Program Outperforms Major Cities in Job Placement (Mountain News)

Business Expansions and Incentives 📊

• Which States Stand to Benefit the Most from the New Opportunity Zone Criteria? (SSTI)
• $1.4B Deal Signed with Two Rare Earth Startups (Associated Press)
• Minnesota DEED Announces $2.4M for Growing Careers Program (DEED)
• Anthropic and Microsoft Announce New AI Data Center Projects (Associated Press)
• Ohio Releases Guidelines for New Workforce Housing Program (The Business Journal)

SEDE News 🗞️

SEDE Steering Committee Member Spotlight: Tom Burns, Executive Director, Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development

Tom Burns was appointed as Executive Director of Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) in 2023. Burns started his career by attaining his Certified Public Accountant designation with Deloitte and was subsequently the Assistant Corporate Controller at United Gaming, the predecessor of Light & Wonder. For more than 30 years he was an insurance executive in Southern Nevada, specializing in commercial insurance surety.

Burns has served on numerous professional boards, including charitable organizations and government-appointed committees. He served on the Government Affairs Committees and Board of Trustees for numerous civic and trade group organizations including: the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce where he also served as chair for two years beginning in 2020. He was named to the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance Board in 2023. A University of Nevada, Reno graduate, Burns enjoys spending time with his wife of 38 years, Shelly and his two children, JT and Megan.

SEDE Members on the Move: Nebraska Department of Economic Development

We’re pleased to share recent leadership changes within the SEDE Network. Join us in celebrating these transitions and welcoming new leaders to our community!

Outgoing Leader: K.C. Belitz, Director

Belitz served as director of Nebraska DED for two years. Belitz oversaw the review and awarding of hundreds of millions of dollars in grants through state and local programs. His focus was on how to attract people and businesses to the state, and the launch of the “6 Regions, One Nebraska” initiative, an effort that encouraged communities within each region to work together to identify and address key shared economic development needs.

Incoming Leader: Maureen Larsen, Director

Larsen was named Director in November after serving as interim director since July 2025. During that time, Larsen has focused on career opportunities for Nebraska youth, expanding international trade and strengthening public-private partnerships. Prior to her role at DED, Larsen was general counsel to the governor and deputy director of the governor’s Policy Research Office.

The Government is Back Open. Here’s What that Means for Economic Data (CNN) The US government has reopened following its longest-ever shutdown, setting the stage for the eventual release of federal data. The backlog of data will start flowing, and the long-awaited September jobs report will have been published. The leading statistical agencies are in the process of updating their schedules for economic releases. Each economic data series will be affected differently by the shutdown, depending on how, when, and from where the data is collected. The lack of a complete monthly employment snapshot for October isn’t ideal, but an estimate can still be assembled. The shutdown lasted through nearly half of November, but it is expected that all major reports will be released.

New Funding for Workforce Pilots in the Great Lakes/Midwest Region (DoD; M-EWD) The Office of the Secretary of Defense Manufacturing Technology Program’s Manufacturing Education and Workforce Development (M-EWD) Program is excited to announce a call for Manufacturing Innovation Institutes (MIIs) to submit proposals for a FY 2026 $1 million regional pilot program to foster collaboration and innovation in addressing critical workforce gaps in advanced manufacturing across the Great Lakes/Midwest region. M-EWD invites MIIs to submit proposals that leverage partnerships between multiple MIIs, academia, and industry to develop impactful and scalable solutions. Please contact one of the eight DoD MIIs to discuss developing a collaborative MII proposal.

Webinar Series: Nuclear Energy in the Midwest (Midwestern Governors Association) Many Midwest states are investigating nuclear energy as a possible option to meet the growth in demand load in the Midwest and beyond. The Midwestern Governors Association is presenting a webinar series on nuclear energy to provide the information needed to support these efforts and provide policy makers with the tools to make decisions related to nuclear energy in their states:

• The State of Nuclear Energy in the Midwest (November 18 – recording and presentation)
• Siting Nuclear Energy (December 9)
• The Role SMRs and New Technology (December 18)
• State Policy Makers’ Role in Nuclear Energy & Load Growth (January 13)

DOE Announces $355M to Expand Domestic Production of Critical Minerals and Materials (DOE) The US Department of Energy announced $355 million in funding opportunities through two notices issued by DOE’s Office of Fossil Energy. Both opportunities are focused on the expansion of domestic production of critical materials essential for advancing US energy production, manufacturing, transportation, and national defense. The first funding opportunity provides up to $275 million for American industrial facilities capable of producing valuable minerals from existing industrial and coal byproducts. The second provides up to $80 million to establish Mine of the Future proving grounds for real-world testing of next-generation mining technologies. The application deadline for both NOFOs is December 15, 2025, by 5:00PM ET.

The Case for Manufactured Housing (The Pew Charitable Trusts) The Pew Charitable Trusts’ housing policy initiative works to help policymakers reimagine their approach to housing by illuminating how regulations and statutes drive the housing shortage and rising costs. In this podcast, Pew staff explains the advantages of buying a manufactured home and debunks old stereotypes that inform the zoning and laws that limit access to these types of houses.

Economy and Trade 💰

Tariff Dashboard: Tracking the Evolution of US Tariffs (UN Trade & Development) Starting in February 2025, the United States introduced a range of “reciprocal” (country-specific) and sectoral tariffs. The tariff dashboard tracks the direction and magnitude of tariff changes by country and product group and highlights the growing differences in the tariffs faced by countries in the US market. Users can filter the dashboard by type of product (manufacturing, agriculture, or fuels & mining) and by country.

Data Tool: The American Affordability Tracker (Urban Institute) To solve the affordability crisis, policymakers need clear, actionable data and policy solutions. They need to know how people in their communities are actually faring when it comes to resources, everyday costs, and financial distress. According to Urban Institute research finds that 52% of people in American families don’t have the resources to cover what it really costs to live securely. This tracker monitors the most recent available data on earnings, housing, healthcare, childcare, gas, groceries and various types of loan delinquency to help show data over time at the national, state, and congressional district levels.

Unlocking Local Leadership: Why Rural People Step Forward to Help Their Communities (Gallup) Members of a community are often best positioned to come up with ideas and plans for improving where they live because local people best understand the unique strengths and limitations of their communities. This report highlights the potential within rural America for community members to initiate and lead local action when they have a strong sense of connection to the community; findings show that 68% say they frequently help others in their communities and 46% have a desire to be more involved. These insights can help inform decisions, policies, and public and private funding so that people are more likely to take on and tackle local challenges and opportunities and build on the strength of rural communities.

Addressing the Impacts of Changing U.S. Trade Policy (State of Colorado) Colorado’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), Department of Agriculture (CDA), and Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE), consulted with key stakeholders, businesses, and parties regarding the impact of U.S. tariff policies. In order to support businesses and consumers in navigating tariff issues, agencies have developed response plans focused on direct financial support such as loans or unemployment benefits, industry and global partnerships to bolster Colorado as a prime location to do business, and continued monitoring of tariff impacts and engagement with impacted stakeholders.

Workforce ⚒️

How Universities Are Driving Regional Economic Growth (University Economic Development Association) The University Economic Development Association (UEDA) has released results from its 2025 Engines of Growth member survey. Findings show how universities are redefining economic development through partnerships that advance workforce talent, commercialize research, and strengthen regional collaboration. According to the survey, more than 82% of UEDA member institutions directly engage in economic development initiatives to support regional economies, and nearly three-quarters focus on industry partnerships and workforce development. The results underscore higher education’s critical role in connecting research and talent to local and regional economic priorities.

Eastern Kentucky Workforce Program Outperforms Major Cities in Job Placement (Mountain News) EKCEP has achieved significant workforce outcomes despite Eastern Kentucky’s natural disasters and economic challenges. According to the analysis, EKCEP served 12,820 residents, secured 3,332 job placements, and earned 959 credentials in one year, outperforming major metro workforce boards on a per-capita basis. EKCEP leadership makes an effort to provide a culture of learning and build community partnerships to achieve these results.

Business Expansions and Incentives 📊

Which States Stand to Benefit the Most from the New Opportunity Zone Criteria? (SSTI) Opportunity Zones (OZs) are a designation for census tracts and a tool providing tax incentives for investments to spur economic growth and job creation in distressed areas. Recent legislation renewed the OZ program which was initially created in 2017. The Urban Institute’s OZ Designation Tool includes a list of over 25,000 tracts likely to be eligible under the updated legislation. However, of these tracts, 68% are “less likely to attract OZ investment,” according to the tool. This varies by state: Utah (39%), Hawaii (46%) and Idaho (49%) have the lowest percentage of these tracts. That is not to say that states with a lower likelihood of receiving investment will not receive any, but rather that the OZ designation may be less impactful.

$1.4B Deal Signed With Two Rare Earth Startups (Associated Press) The federal government and private investors are partnering with two rare earth startups in a $1.4 billion deal to scale up the nation’s access to materials and technology that is crucial for producing an array of high-tech goods and military equipment. Vulcan Elements is a North Carolina startup that manufactures rare earth magnets, while ReElement in Indiana processes rare earth mineral ores and recycles old batteries and other products made with rare earths. Rare earths are used in fighter jets, guided missiles, drones, and nuclear submarines, as well as smartphones and wind turbines. The deal includes a $620 million loan from the Department of Defense, $50 million of federal incentives from the Department of Commerce and $550 million in private capital.

Minnesota DEED Announces $2.4M for Growing Careers Program (DEED) The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) awarded $2.4 million to seven local partners to develop and implement agriculture-focused workforce training programs for the Growing Careers initiative. Growing Careers grant recipients are eligible for up to $500,000 to develop training programs to help more Minnesotans enter agricultural careers, specifically dislocated workers, including those with low-income or who need assistance with basic skill development. Programs will increase the number of new and emerging farmers and farm businesses, creating a pipeline of well-trained workers to meet the needs of employers and increase the number of new entrants into agricultural sector pathways. The Growing Careers Program will fund on-the-job training, career navigation and worker support services, and paid work experience, and is funded by a grant from the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership.

Anthropic and Microsoft Announce New AI Data Center Projects (Associated Press) Artificial intelligence company Anthropic, maker of the chatbot Claude, announced a $50 billion investment in computing infrastructure that will include data centers in Texas and New York. Anthropic said its projects will create about 800 permanent jobs and 2,400 construction jobs. Microsoft also announced a new data center under construction in Atlanta, Georgia, describing it as connected to another in Wisconsin to form a “massive supercomputer.” These latest deals show that the tech industry is moving forward with huge spending to build AI infrastructure.

Ohio Releases Guidelines for New Workforce Housing Program (The Business Journal) The Ohio Department of Development released guidelines for a new program designed to support workforce housing near major economic development projects. The Residential Economic Development District Program, passed earlier this year, allocates a total of $25 million in grant funding to help communities expand housing opportunities close to where jobs are growing. The program will provide approximately $10 million in grant funding in fiscal year 2026, followed by roughly $15 million in fiscal year 2027. Local governments located within 20 miles of a major project will be able to apply for funding to expand housing-related infrastructure, strengthen public safety and community services, or provide capital to support new housing development.

 

The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network engages in regular events throughout the year. State Economic Development.org lists these activities and offers an interactive forum for discussion among peers. The SEDE Steering Committee includes: Sandra Watson (AZ), Chair; Clint O’Neal (AR); Quentin Messer (MI), Kevin McKinnon (MN); Michelle Hataway (MO); Thomas Burns (NV) Hope Knight (NY); Christopher Chung (NC); Andrew Deye (OH); Sophorn Cheang (OR); Ashely Teasdel (SC), Adriana Cruz (TX).

Allison Ulaky of the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC) led the development of this Bulletin; for questions on the content in this Bulletin or for information on the SEDE Network contact Bob Isaacson, CREC Senior Vice President.

Issue 86, October 2025

A Summary of Cutting-Edge Articles Affecting States

HEADLINES

SEDE News 🗞️

• SEDE Hosts Meeting for Top Executives (SEDE)
• Call for Sponsorship Practices (SEDE)
• SEDE Steering Committee Member Spotlight: Hope Knight, President, CEO, and Commissioner of Empire State Development
• SEDE Members on the Move: Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

Economy 💰

• Commerce Invests $15.8M in First Awards for Disaster Supplemental Funding (EDA)
• State Legislatures Make Bipartisan Breakthroughs on Policies that Promote Housing (Pew)
• The Atlanta Fed’s Role in Understanding the Economic Impact of Natural Disasters (Atlanta Fed)
• Some Americans Are Starting to Feel the Impact of the Government Shutdown (The N.Y. Times)
• Among EDA’s Cuts is the University Centers Program (SSTI)

Trade 📈

• Highest Tariffs Since 1930s Redraw the International Trade Map (Bloomberg Businessweek)

Industry Trends 💡

• AI Places: How to Benchmark and Boost Your Region’s AI Competitiveness (Lightcast)
• The Future of Life Sciences: Harmonizing Quality and Manufacturing (Forbes)

Workforce ⚒️

• NSF Invests $30M in EPSCoR for Workforce Development in Energy, Semiconductors, and More (NSF)
• Who Rides Out the Storm? Post-College Transition and its Role in Socioeconomic Earnings Gaps (NBER)
• Manufacturing Day 2025: A Skilled Workforce Should be the Nation’s First Priority (IndustryWeek)
• GE Aerospace Invests $30M in Workforce Program to Grow Manufacturing Talent (WCPO Cincinnati)

Business Expansions and Incentives 📊

• The Evolving Landscape of State Incentives (Smart Incentives)
• Connecting Evidence to Policy: Takeaways from the NCSL Tax Incentive Roundtable (Smart Incentives)
• Stellantis Makes Largest U.S. Investment in Company History, Promising 5,000 Jobs (STLA)
• Colorado Approves Millions for Semiconductor Manufacturer’s Expansion (Colorado Springs Gazette)

SEDE News 🗞️

SEDE Hosted Meeting for Top Executives (SEDE) The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network held its Fall meeting for state economic development executives and their deputies in New York City from October 14-15^th. The meeting, hosted by Empire State Development Corporation, included discussions of current issues facing states and many opportunities for networking among the state economic development commissioners, secretaries and executive directors or their top deputies. Meeting notes will be available at stateeconomicdevelopment.org.

Call for Sponsorship Practices (SEDE) SEDE is interested in potentially creating strategic relationships with economic development sponsor partners. Sponsors may gain visibility with SEDE leaders, broaden their promotional reach, and be recognized in event materials, signage, and digital channels. SEDE wants to learn more about the sponsor relationships that exist in the economic development ecosystem. Please contact Bob Isaacson, Senior Vice President with the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness, if you have experiences, best practices, or lessons you’d like to share!

SEDE Steering Committee Member Spotlight: Hope Knight, President, CEO, and Commissioner of Empire State Development

Hope Knight is the President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development, New York State’s economic development agency. She was nominated to the position by Governor Kathy Hochul in October 2021 and confirmed by the New York State Senate in May 2022.

Hope has been instrumental in the creation of the state’s Office of Strategic Workforce Development, which will focus on improving New York’s workforce development programs and practices to better align with the needs and priorities of today’s employers. She has also focused efforts on supporting New York State’s small businesses, ensuring that they have the resources needed to grow and thrive, and growing the state’s Minority and Women-Owned Business community. Prior to her appointment, Commissioner Knight served as President & CEO of Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, one of the nation’s first community development corporations. Additionally, from 2015 to 2021 she was a Commissioner on the New York City Planning Commission. She holds a BA from Marymount Manhattan College and an MBA from the Graduate School of Business of the University of Chicago. The SEDE network would like to thank Commissioner Knight for hosting the Fall SEDE Network Meeting in NYC!

SEDE Members on the Move: Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

We’re pleased to share recent leadership changes within the SEDE Network. Join us in celebrating these transitions and welcoming new leaders to our community!

Outgoing Leader: Missy Hughes, WEDC Secretary and CEO

Hughes led the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation for six years. As Secretary and CEO, Hughes helped secure over $8 billion in planned investments from companies, which helped create or retain over 45,000 jobs. Hughes has announced running for Wisconsin Governor election in 2026. A new Secretary has yet to be named.

Economy 💰

Commerce Invests $15.8M in First Awards for Disaster Supplemental Funding (EDA) The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) awarded $15.8 million in FY2025 Disaster Supplemental funding in 11 states and territories. These awards will support economic recovery efforts in several states that received major disaster declarations in 2023 and 2024, due to storms and other weather-related events. These awards are the first of many to come to support economic recovery from these disasters.

State Legislatures Make Bipartisan Breakthroughs on Policies that Promote Housing (Pew) In 2025, state legislatures enacted unprecedented reforms to improve the availability and affordability of housing, with lawmakers in Texas, Washington, and Montana leading the way with major successes. The momentum behind these new state laws reflects a growing national consensus around the strong connection between housing availability and affordability and the types of changes that can improve both. These changes include zoning reforms, focusing on affordable homeownership, parking reforms, and cutting processing times to reduce delays.

The Atlanta Fed’s Role in Understanding the Economic Impact of Natural Disasters (Atlanta Fed) Atlanta Fed researchers strengthened the Atlanta Fed’s ability to understand economic mobility and resilience conditions within communities through recent discoveries about Hurricane Michael’s impact on one Florida county. Hurricane Michael made landfall along the Florida Panhandle on October 10, 2018. Through data analyses of this urban/rural county, a tourist destination anchored by Panama City Beach, Atlanta Fed researchers gained insights into the outcome of residents’ decisions to move from the county after the storm. Results suggested that Bay County residents exposed to the storm were 3% more likely to move within the next year (2019), and 3.8% more likely to move within the next three years following Hurricane Michael.

Some Americans Are Starting to Feel the Impact of the Government Shutdown (The N.Y. Times) Impacts of the federal government shutdown are starting to be felt by certain populations beyond federal employees, hinting at problems that could deepen. For example, in some Native American communities, key medical services, such as diabetes monitoring and telehealth sessions, have been curtailed or canceled. Veterans no longer have access to career counseling or regional benefits offices. In addition, many of the country’s fruit and vegetable farmers face hurdles in planning for next year’s crops because there is so much uncertainty about what federal assistance they can expect. Construction projects may also face delays if permits cannot be issued. Tracking these impacts will be important as the shutdown continues.

EDA Discontinues 3 Programs, Including the University Centers Program (SSTI) The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is discontinuing funding for the University Center, Trade Adjustment Assistance to Firms, and STEM Talent Challenge programs. The reason cited was budget constraints. This change will have no impact on current awards; they must be closed out, and project activities must end once funds are spent. The University Center program had 70 UCs operating across the country. University Centers were focused on leveraging university assets to build regional economic ecosystems that support innovation and high-growth entrepreneurship across the country.

Trade 📈

Highest Tariffs Since 1930s Redraw the International Trade Map (Bloomberg Businessweek) The new contours of global commerce are starting to emerge as governments redraw trade alliances and changes occur due to the highest US tariffs since the 1930s. Smaller economies are also adapting to a world where US consumers and companies are more expensive to reach; for example, a group of 14 countries that includes New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates has formed a partnership to boost trade and investment. Trade relationships will continue to shift, along with more bilaterial trade agreements between countries.

Industry Trends 💡

AI Places: How to Benchmark and Boost Your Region’s AI Competitiveness (Lightcast) While AI demand is rising across industries worldwide, the future of work isn’t happening somewhere in the cloud, but in real communities. Looking through a regional lens shows us where talent, training, and companies come together. For workforce development agencies and local policymakers, this means knowing how to prioritize AI-readiness interventions. Demand can be driven by universities, by the private sector, or by both. AI competitiveness depends not only on the amount of talent in a region but on knowing who the anchor institutions are and how ecosystems are connected. Regions that can map their key players are better placed to foster partnerships, strengthen pipelines, and align employers and educators.

The Future of Life Sciences: Harmonizing Quality and Manufacturing (Forbes) Life sciences are standing on the edge of their most consequential decade. Scientific discovery is advancing at breakneck speed, all promising to transform how we treat and prevent disease. Yet, the systems that must bring these breakthroughs to patients remain constrained by old divides. The most critical of these is the separation between quality and manufacturing: while quality safeguards compliance and patient safety, manufacturing drives efficiency and scale. The technology to bridge quality and manufacturing is available now. For example, AI can predict deviations and prevent recalls before they occur, while digital twins simulate manufacturing and quality outcomes in parallel. Leaders should consider interoperability, redefine accountability measures, and adopt an ecosystem mindset to create new standards of excellence.

Workforce ⚒️

NSF Invests $30M in EPSCoR for Workforce Development in Energy, Semiconductors, and More (NSF) The U.S. National Science Foundation is investing approximately $30 million in institutions across Montana, Idaho and Louisiana to establish NSF EPSCoR Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology (NSF EPSCoR CREST Centers). These centers aim to expand STEM knowledge, enhance research productivity and attract more students from those regions into STEM fields. Montana Technological University will establish a research hub on energy systems, Boise State University will launch the Center for Advancing Workforce Experience through Semiconductors, Outreach, and Mentoring, and Louisiana will establish a center focused on nanomotor research with workforce development.

Who Rides Out the Storm? Post-College Transition and its Role in Socioeconomic Earnings Gaps (NBER) Despite a large earnings premium for bachelor’s degree completion in general, graduates from low-income families earn substantially less than graduates from high-income families. While prior research has documented the role of college quality and major choice in explaining these gaps, this research examines a different margin: the first (post-college) job transition. The transition from college to the labor market can be challenging to navigate, and students with financial, informational, or other disadvantages during the job search may be more likely to “undermatch” to their first job.

Manufacturing Day 2025: A Skilled Workforce Should be the Nation’s First Priority (IndustryWeek) An estimated 3.8 million manufacturing jobs will need to be filled over the next decade due to an overall shortfall in recruits and a mismatch between the skills manufacturers need and the skillsets of available workers. In honor of Manufacturing Day 2025, it is important to acknowledge the need to provide pathways for more youth to obtain the technical skills needed for today’s job market. U.S. educational pathways favor college degrees over technical training, resulting in fewer engineers and apprentices compared to global competitors like Germany and China. Expanding apprenticeships and technical certifications and publicizing reshoring success stories can attract more youth to manufacturing careers and improve workforce quality. Likewise, certificate and license training pays off, and greater funding should go towards technical training opportunities.

GE Aerospace Invests $30M in Workforce Program to Grow Manufacturing Talent (WCPO Cincinnati) Over the next five years, GE Aerospace will invest $30 million into its new workforce program across the nation. The company said it’s hoping to increase the number of highly skilled manufacturing workers by 10,000 beginning next year. GE Aerospace is partnering with educational programs across the country to assist with this effort. This includes efforts in Cincinnati, as Cincinnati State Technical and Community College will receive $250,000 from GE Aerospace. That money will fund two new aviation maintenance technician instructors to help expand the program capacity from 185 students to 350.

Business Expansions and Incentives 📊

The Evolving Landscape of State Incentives (Smart Incentives) The C2ER State Incentives Database recently completed its annual update and has shared some interesting trends and findings. Although the total number of incentive programs continues to increase, the pace of program creation has slowed. While 2025 showed an increase in new programs, the broader trend suggests that states are rolling out fewer new incentives than in the 1990s and 2000s. Several new programs in 2024 and 2025 are focused on boosting childcare resources, including the Nebraska School Readiness Tax Credit and Child Care Nonrefundable Tax Credit, Utah Child Care Business Tax Credit and Alabama Childcare Facility Tax Credit. C2ER expects states will continue to “prioritize workforce initiatives and programs like childcare or housing to support a robust workforce.”

Connecting Evidence to Policy: Takeaways from the NCSL Tax Incentive Roundtable (Smart Incentives) The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) recently hosted the annual Roundtable on Evaluating Economic Development Tax Incentives in Helena, Montana. NCSL. The meeting, supported by The Pew Charitable Trusts, brought together economists, auditors, analysts, researchers, economic developers and consultants who all share an interest in improving our understanding of how tax incentives work and illuminating their impact on state budgets and economies. A significant underlying theme this year was the need to ensure incentive evaluations remain relevant and actionable for policymakers. While evaluators are successfully generating more and better evidence – clearly identifying incentives that work and those that don’t – many are encountering difficulty engaging with decision-makers. This disconnect prevents the evidence from being fully incorporated into policy and program deliberations.

Stellantis Makes Largest U.S. Investment in Company History, Promising 5,000 Jobs (STLA) Stellantis is making the single-largest investment the company has ever made (even as Chrysler), announcing plans to drop $13 billion into the U.S. market. The investment will affect each of its manufacturing facilities in the United States, with the largest sums to be distributed among four states — Michigan, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana. The investment is also planned to result in more than 5,000 jobs and lead to a 50% increase in yearly vehicle production and five new vehicles. New vehicles are expected to launch by 2027.

Colorado Approves Millions for Semiconductor Manufacturer’s Expansion (Colorado Springs Gazette) A service provider in the semiconductor industry, which operates a packaging facility in Colorado Springs, has been approved for millions in tax incentives from the state if it expands its U.S. operations in Colorado. The Colorado Economic Development Commission approved more than $1.1 million in performance-based job growth tax incentives and $1 million in CHIPS refundable tax credits for an unnamed company. The parent company has nearly 2,000 employees across the world, including more than 100 currently in Colorado. Colorado legislators in 2023 created the CHIPS Zone Program to maximize incentives available for semiconductor companies in the state. Municipalities, counties and groups of both can apply to designate a geographical area within their boundaries as a CHIPS Zone, allowing them access to various state income tax credits.

The State Economic Development Executives (SEDE) Network engages in regular events throughout the year. State Economic Development.org lists these activities and offers an interactive forum for discussion among peers. The SEDE Steering Committee includes: Sandra Watson (AZ), Chair; Clint O’Neal (AR); Kurt Foreman (DE); Quentin Messer (MI), Kevin McKinnon (MN); Michelle Hataway (MO); Thomas Burns (NV) Hope Knight (NY); Christopher Chung (NC); Andrew Deye (OH); Sophorn Cheang (OR); Ashely Teasdel (SC), Adriana Cruz (TX).

Allison Ulaky of the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC) led the development of this Bulletin; for questions on the content in this Bulletin or for information on the SEDE Network contact Bob Isaacson, CREC Senior Vice President.