What's Behind Us?
The Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation has had a busy start to the year. In January, we had some key meetings and events. We're finalizing the Strategic Plan with key stakeholders; we're continuing to build our toolbox through technology, education, and networking. And we are looking forward to upcoming events that will help strengthen our regional relationships and build a better entrepreneurial ecosystem.
16th Annual Groundhog Day
Economic Forecast with Michael Weidokal
Recently, we had the privilege of having helped coordinate the arrangements for hosting our 16th Annual Groundhog Day Economic Forecast at the First Federal Community Bank's Financial Education Center in North Dover. Michael Weidokal from International Strategic Analysis (ISA) visits the area each year to bring us an excellent presentation on current geopolitics, security issues, business strategy, and analysis of the global economy. This is always an honor. Mr. Weidokal is one the most respected global forecasters in the world. He is a sought-after keynote speaker; his firm is a leading provider of country intelligence and market studies for many of the world's top manufacturing companies, professional services firms, banks, government bodies, and universities. He just left town, and we're already preparing for his return next year. If you have yet to attend this annual event, we encourage everyone interested in economics to come and listen to his presentation. The information will be invaluable for those responsible for planning and budgeting, as it provides an expert’s view on situations around the world that are (or will) impact the economy. You can watch this year’s presentation right here!
What's Ahead of Us?
TCEDC, Executive Director, Marla Akridge speaks at our latest strategic planning meeting
Moving forward, the TCEDC is excited to bring our Strategic Plan to our board members to be finalized. Starting in September 2022, economic development consultants Mark Barbash and Anthony Jones have been working with TCEDC staff, local government leaders, educators, key community stakeholders, and board members of our economic development organizations to develop a strategic plan that will guide us in every way into the future. We recently presented a version of this plan that will be taken to the boards of our EDOs to be finalized for implementation. Key goals of this plan include continuing to identify, develop, and market competitive sites in our county. We're also excited to add the development of a Workforce Talent Pipeline to maintain and attract and retain workers to the region through the establishment of Industry Sector Partnerships and strengthened engagement with our local educational institutions. In addition, we have plans to continue Growing our Diverse Industry Base through our Business Retention and Expansion Program. A final area of focus is the implementation of tactics that will Enhance our Administration and Engagement. This vision will provide a foundation for a marketing strategy that includes a plan for our calendar, our newsletter, and "The Valley Podcast," all of which will help us more effectively and meaningfully communicate, educate, and inform the community.
Shark Tub: AN EVENING OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP
The TCEDC is excited to announce our involvement in East Central Ohio's Shark Tub Competition. Shark Tub will be An Evening of Entrepreneurship, brought to you by regional economic development partners. This is a "Shark Tank"-style contest between new businesses. The event is open to the public and we welcome everyone to come and hear their pitches. In addition, visitors can purchase monopoly money to place votes for their favorite table presentation. The top business will then have the opportunity to present to our "Sharks" for $4,000 in cash prizes and other services from local professionals. This is all going down at the Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center in Cambridge, OH, on April 25th.
Please plan to attend and support entrepreneurs who want to launch or expand their own businesses. If you want to attend this event and would like to bookmark it on your calendar you can click here. If you are interested in learning more or participating, you can register here.