Paths to New Prosperity and a Better Politics in Our Democracies
'It's not all a silicon valley'. What a new report of a U.S.-Midwest learning exchange and study tour for European Union and United Kingdom leaders finds.
Economic Development
221 posts
Running Fiber-Optic Cable to Rural Communities Is Part of Maine’s Ambitious Broadband Plan
Maine’s governor has pledged that everyone in the state who wants high-speed internet will be able to get it by the end of 2024. In just one small, Down East town, that means installing 60 miles of fiber-optic cable.
What Midwest Industrial Communities can Teach about Managing Economic Change
With a great convergence on both sides of the Atlantic around the urgent need to diminish geographic economic disparities and opportunity gaps — particularly those between thriving global city regions and struggling communities in industrial heartlands – there are growing efforts to learn from each other.
Inside Our Towns: Tighe Bullock
Evan Sanford catches up with Tighe Bullock, the accountant, lawyer, downtown developer, and construction contractor, on his latest work in Charleston, West Virginia.
Uplifting American Spirits
Branch & Barrel Distilling, in Centennial, Colorado, shows how an interdependent community-based economy can raise spirits for an entire region.
The Economic Potential of the Great American Rail-Trail
The completion of a cross-country bike trail in old railroad corridors could add nearly a quarter-billion dollars a year to local economies.
Galesburg residents revitalize ‘Appliance City’ by focusing on ‘quality of life’
The exodus of Galesburg, Illinois’ economic anchor in 2004 left the town in identity-crisis mode. Now, Galesburg residents are redefining the heart and soul of the town — which once centered around being a manufacturing hub — by bringing their unique history and heritage to the fore.
The Local Tavern: The Tradition Continues at Max Taps-Centennial
Entrepreneurship. Gatherings of friends and colleagues. Industry leadership. Great American traditions. These are prime ingredients of successful local community taprooms. And, as forecasted in my December 2021 post, these pieces…
Renewing the Call for a Marshall Plan for America
Seven decades ago, a plan to rebuild fragile, wounded countries swept across Western Europe. That idea should serve as a blueprint for American towns and cities and regions left behind today, argues Michael Cooper.
“Ally-Shore” to Restore U.S. Economic Leadership and Protect Democracy
"Allyshoring" offers the United States benefits locally, nationally, and internationally. What is "allyshoring," why does it matter? Why is it important now? Elaine Dezenski and John Austin explain.
Max Taps Supports Marshall Fire Victims
In the wake of one of the costliest fires in U.S. history, a local establishment is leading a local response effort to support those in need.
The Local Tavern: A Glimpse of America’s Past Present Today
One of the most important things modern America shares with the people who founded the country is the sense of community and fellowship that comes with sharing time at the…
Transforming Industrial Heartland Communities – And Healing Our Fractured Politics
Some communities have made the transition to a new, thriving economy in a changed world. Others are still struggling.
Exposing What was Already Present
The pandemic provides an opportunity to focus on justice and equity in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Erie Celebrates World Refugee Day with New Film, Publishes Directory of Refugee-Owned Businesses
Erie Celebrates World Refugee Day with New Film, Publishes Directory of Refugee-Owned Businesses
Creating and Reimagining Community through a Crisis
A look at the impact of Covid-19 on the culture sector in Erie, Pennsylvania.