Helping communities get ready before opportunity knocks

I’m excited to share a new partnership for The Stevie Project: I’ve started working with REDI Sites (opens in new window), helping introduce its nationally recognized site designation program to communities and economic development organizations across the country.

One thing nearly 30 years in economic development has taught me: preparation matters. The communities and sites that are ready before an opportunity arrives are in a much stronger position when that opportunity finally comes along.

REDI Sites helps communities understand exactly where their sites stand. Through a consistent site-readiness process, each property receives a designation that reflects its readiness level, along with insight into where additional due diligence or improvements may be needed.

For site selectors and prospective companies, that means greater confidence that much of the homework has already been done.

This partnership is also a great example of why I created The Stevie Project in the first place: to help organizations grow through relationships, strategic partnerships and technology. I’m fortunate to continue my work with Development Counsellors International (DCI) (opens in new window) and its Technology Innovation team while welcoming REDI Sites as another Stevie Project client.

I get to keep doing what I love: working with great people, staying connected to an industry that has been part of my life for nearly three decades and helping communities find new ways to compete, grow and succeed.

Here’s to the next chapter.