Challenge Located on the Central Coast of California, the City of San Luis Obispo (City) functions as one of the region’s economic centers. It boasts a blend of industries, a strong visitor economy, a vibrant downtown, proximity to outdoor recreation amenities, and the presence of California Polytechnic State University and […]
Challenge Greater Spokane has grown into the second largest metro area in the state of Washington and a significant economic driver for the Inland Northwest. The region is home to dynamic industries ranging from aerospace and life sciences to advanced manufacturing and agriculture, a full spectrum of higher education institutions,
Challenge From its origins as a farming community, Auburn has transformed into a center for industry, serving as home to one of Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ most essential fabrication sites and the world’s largest airplane parts plant. The community’s commitment to quality of place is evident in its attention to civic
Challenge With Oregon’s employment base growing faster than its labor force, the state’s talent shortage has become more acute. Rising vacancies and increases in the length of time required to fill positions cost Oregon employers billions each year (not to mention the subsequent loss of state revenues from income taxes).
Challenge East Kern County’s economy is driven primarily by two military installations (Naval Air Weapons Station-China Lake and Edwards Air Force Base), the Mojave Air and Space Port, and Rio Tinto Minerals. Spanning more than 8,000 square miles and encompassing a diverse group of communities—including incorporated cities (California City, Ridgecrest,
Challenge California’s Central Coast holds many advantages including a broad industry base, dynamic employers, diverse populations, and scenic landscapes. Its growing tech and innovation ecosystem is supported by two leading universities—California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) and the University of California, Santa Barbara (UC Santa Barbara)—along with
Challenge The importance of the military and defense sector to the state of Washington is clear; the sector provides tens of thousands of jobs and contributes billions of dollars to the state economy. What was not clear to state leaders is the extent to which Washington businesses are reliant on
Challenge Bounded by the Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains, Anchorage is situated in one of the world’s most beautiful settings. Its scenic parks and trails, upscale ski resort, top-tier restaurants, and unique cultural and arts amenities make the city a popular destination for visitors and adventure seekers from around
Challenge Following three decades of strong population growth, Kittitas County, Washington, experienced even higher levels of in-migration in the years leading up to the 2020 Census. Anecdotal evidence suggested this trend was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as those who had flexible work arrangements, or who could afford to move
Challenge Part of the Puget Sound area, Kittitas County was hit hard by the 2008 recession. Like major metropolitan areas across the country, the heavily technology-dependent region saw a steep decline in economic activity as well as vital state funding. County leaders realized that traditional economic development activities centered on
