Why this strategy?
If this region is to not only persevere in the face of coming economic challenges, but also thrive, it will need to have intense collaboration, strong business intelligence, self-awareness, and constant exploration.
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The region has been operating with a fragmented approach to economic development that has not positioned Akron to move beyond this stasis
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Growth that is driven by innovation will enable the region to continuously evolve into emerging industries before existing industries mature and decline
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Ensuring ongoing collaboration and coordination among economic development ecosystem partners will better support the regional business community
How We're Driving This Work
At the core of this regional economic development plan is the collaboration and coordination around a unified vision for the region. Elevate Akron is focused on ensuring that the economic development ecosystem, comprised of civic, non-profit, community and business leaders, working together to advance shared goals. It is also focused on research and thought leadership as the region works to identify new opportunities and develop creative solutions to address current issues.
Economic Development Ecosystem Support
A well-coordinated and easily navigable ecosystem is critical to support business and entrepreneurial success in Greater Akron. Work is underway to leverage existing online infrastructure to launch a comprehensive ecosystem resource guide for businesses at all stages. This work is expected to be complete and launch by the end of 2020.
Surveys
We frequently conduct business surveys to assess a region's pulse on different topics.
Mid-Tech Research
In 2021, EGA launched its mid-tech research project – an effort to better understand the economic opportunities and viability of a holistic workforce development strategy to increase sub-baccalaureate level technology (“mid-tech”) skills in the region.
Economic Development Ecosystem Support
A well-coordinated and easily navigable ecosystem is critical to support business and entrepreneurial success in Greater Akron. Work is underway to leverage existing online infrastructure to launch a comprehensive ecosystem resource guide for businesses at all stages. This work is expected to be complete and launch by the end of 2020.
Surveys
We frequently conduct business surveys used to assess to regions pulse on different topics.
Mid-Tech Research
In 2021, EGA launched its mid-tech research project – an effort to better understand the economic opportunities and viability of a holistic workforce development strategy to increase sub-baccalaureate level technology (“mid-tech”) skills in the region.
How can this work benefit you?
Elevate Greater Akron works to create opportunities throughout our regional ecosystem that benefit individuals and businesses alike.
How can this work benefit you?
Elevate Greater Akron works to create opportunities throughout our regional ecosystem that benefit individuals and businesses alike.
Research
Learn more about the research done through Elevate Greater Akron
Survey
Sign up to participate in business surveys conducted by the Greater Akron Chamber used to assess to regions pulse on different topics.