Develop This: Economic and Community Development

Develop This! Podcast
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Explore topics related to transformational community leadership including economic development, non-profit engagement, organizational management, and policy development. It's a candid conversation with veterans of the economic development profession along with inspiring interviews of today's thought leaders.

  1. 10H AGO

    DT #626 Trust, Transparency, and Tough Decisions: Ethics in Economic Development

    Ethics is the invisible foundation of successful economic development. In this episode of Develop This!, we explore why professional integrity is essential to building trust, guiding difficult decisions, and sustaining long-term community growth. Dennis Fraise interviews Jim Fram, a longtime educator and leader in economic development ethics, about how ethical standards have evolved in the profession—and why they matter more than ever in today's complex environment. From navigating gray areas in deal-making to understanding the role of formal codes of ethics and professional accountability, Jim shares insights from decades of experience teaching and mentoring economic development professionals. The conversation also looks forward, examining how emerging challenges—including AI, increasing deal complexity, and growing public scrutiny—are shaping the future of ethical leadership in the field. Whether you're new to economic development or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers practical guidance on maintaining integrity while advancing your community's goals. In This Episode Why ethics serves as the backbone of economic development The evolution of ethical standards in the profession Why a formal code of ethics and ongoing training are critical Common ethical gray areas practitioners encounter The impact of new technologies like AI on ethical decision-making Real-world consequences when ethical standards are violated How professionals and organizations can rebuild trust after mistakes Memorable Sound Bites "Do what's right, even when it's hard." "Violations can destroy community trust." "Case studies reveal the gray areas where ethics really matter."

    24 min

  2. 10H AGO

    DT #627 The Future of Grants: AI, Federal Changes, and New Funding Strategies for Economic Developers

    The grant landscape is shifting quickly — and economic developers need to be ready. In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Adrian Spencer, founder of Grant Guru, to explore what's ahead for grants, funding, and economic development in 2026. Federal policy changes are reshaping funding opportunities, including a shift away from centralized systems like Grants.gov toward department-specific platforms. At the same time, economic developers are facing increased pressure to secure funding with fewer resources. Adrian shares how communities can adapt by diversifying funding sources, strengthening partnerships, and embracing new tools like AI while maintaining strong oversight and strategy. The conversation also explores emerging trends, including state-level grant initiatives, community collaboration, and the growing role of faith-based organizations in addressing economic and social challenges. Finally, Dennis and Adrian discuss why impact assessment is becoming essential for winning grants and how economic developers can better demonstrate the value of their projects to funders. If your community relies on grants to fund growth, infrastructure, or workforce initiatives, this episode offers practical insight into how to stay competitive in the evolving funding landscape. Download our free White Paper here (by providing a name/email): https://pages.grantguru.com/state-of-play-us-2025 Mention that you heard about GrantGuru on Develop This! and receive a 20% discount Key Topics Covered How federal policy changes are reshaping the grant landscape The shift from Grants.gov to department-specific funding platforms Why state governments may expand funding programs Strategies for diversifying funding sources The growing importance of community collaboration in grant applications How faith-based organizations are becoming key partners in community development The opportunities created by former federal employees re-entering the workforce How AI is changing grant research and development Why impact measurement is critical for securing future funding Sound Bites "Grants.gov is becoming less reliable." "States are going to step up their grant game." "AI is already transforming grant development." "Grant seeking should be a community effort." "Funders want proof of impact, not just good ideas."

    37 min

  3. MAR 4

    DT #623 Proof, Not Potential: What Site Selectors Really Look For

    In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with "America's factory whisperer," Didi Caldwell, President & CEO of Global Location Strategies, for a candid and strategic conversation about the realities of site selection in today's turbulent environment. Site Selectors Guild With more than two decades guiding large manufacturing and heavy industrial projects, Didi shares insider insight into how companies actually make location decisions — and where communities often fall short. From compressed project timelines to the reshoring debate, from data centers reshaping energy markets to the growing importance of investment-ready sites, this episode is a masterclass in modern economic development strategy. If your community wants to compete — and win — this conversation is essential listening. What You'll Learn The New Reality of Site Selection The world of site selection is more volatile than ever. "Slow is fast — and fast is fraught with mistakes." Companies often fail by not aligning internal stakeholders before launching a search. Falling in love with a location before the data supports it can derail projects. Didi emphasizes a critical principle: "We evaluate proof, not potential." Incentives: Myths vs. Reality Incentives can enhance a strong location — but they cannot fix fatal flaws. Communities have a responsibility to evaluate ROI. The best incentive? A truly investment-ready site. Discipline in underwriting incentives protects long-term community prosperity. "Communities have a responsibility too." Data Centers & the Energy Disruption Data centers are fundamentally reshaping: Energy markets Power pricing Infrastructure planning Community land use As Didi notes: "The power price just went up too high." Communities must proactively manage land planning and infrastructure capacity to avoid crowding out other investment opportunities. U.S Reshoring: Reality or Rhetoric? Reshoring isn't a full return of manufacturing — it's a rebalancing. The U.S. holds competitive advantages in energy costs for capital-intensive industries. High interest rates and tariffs complicate investment decisions. Smaller projects are often easier to site than megaprojects. The key? Understanding where your community truly competes. The Evolution of Virtual Site Visits Virtual tours are now a legitimate step in site selection. Communities must have accurate, organized, and accessible data. Speed matters — but speed without preparation increases risk. "You need to have the right information." Preparing Communities for Investment Successful communities: Know their strengths and weaknesses. Maintain updated site data and infrastructure assessments. Align utilities, workforce, and leadership. Act as problem solvers — not just marketers. "We have to demonstrate we can deliver." Key Takeaways for Economic Developers Investment readiness beats incentive generosity. Discipline beats optimism every time. Long-term thinking outperforms short-term wins. Preparation reduces risk. Speed without diligence leads to costly mistakes. Communities must prove viability — not just promise it. About Didi Didi Caldwell is President and CEO of Global Location Strategies, a world leader in site selection and incentive negotiation services and a two-time honoree on the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies list. She is a member — and former chairperson — of the prestigious Site Selectors Guild and currently serves as Chair of the REDI Sites initiative. Didi holds a bachelor's degree in architecture from Clemson University and an international MBA from the Darla Moore School of Business. With expertise in large-scale manufacturing and heavy industrial projects, she has guided some of the world's most complex location decisions.

    46 min

  4. MAR 4

    DT #625 JetZero Lands in Greensboro: North Carolina's Largest Economic Development Win

    The largest economic development project in North Carolina history is taking flight. In this episode of Develop This!, guests Marvin Price and Abbie Jordan Currens take listeners behind the scenes of JetZero's monumental decision to build a $4.7 billion advanced manufacturing facility in Greensboro, North Carolina — a project expected to create more than 14,500 jobs. JetZero's aerospace manufacturing campus isn't just another announcement. It represents a transformational moment for Greensboro, the Piedmont Triad region, and the entire state. In this episode, you'll hear: Why JetZero selected Greensboro and the strategic advantages of North Carolina How site readiness and airport-adjacent infrastructure became the deciding factors The critical role of workforce training and education partnerships How state and local collaboration created a winning environment What this project means for long-term innovation and aerospace growth Lessons learned for economic developers working on large-scale projects As Marvin shares, "It was magical when we won." And as Abby explains, "The airport was a game changer." This conversation is a masterclass in preparation, partnership, and persistence — and a roadmap for communities competing for transformative projects. Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) Greensboro Chamber of Commerce  Key Topics & Themes JetZero and aerospace manufacturing expansion Greensboro, North Carolina as a strategic location Site selection and certified site readiness Infrastructure investment and airport access Workforce training and education alignment Public-private collaboration Long-term community and economic impact Innovation ecosystem development

    34 min

  5. MAR 4

    DT #626 Stronger Together: The Strategic Merger Reshaping Economic Development Fundraising

    In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Brian Abernathy and Clint Nessmith to discuss the strategic merger of Convergent Nonprofit Solutions and Resource Development Group. This isn't a consolidation story — it's a growth strategy. Brian shares how Convergent Nonprofit Solutions was founded during the 2008 financial crisis to bring greater efficiency and innovation to nonprofit fundraising. Clint reflects on Resource Development Group's roots dating back to 1995, focusing exclusively on economic development fundraising and campaign strategy. Together, they unpack: Why today's economic development organizations require increasingly specialized fundraising expertise How quality of place has become central to business attraction and retention The unique fundraising realities facing rural communities Why collaboration between firms can deliver a deeper impact than competition How data analysis and shared resources will strengthen client outcomes Leadership lessons learned from navigating a major transition The conversation highlights a critical truth for today's development professionals: trust, adaptability, and cooperation are the new currency of sustainable growth. As funding models evolve and communities demand more measurable results, this merger signals a broader shift in how nonprofit solutions and economic development strategy intersect. Key Takeaways Convergent Nonprofit Solutions was launched during the 2008 financial crisis to rethink fundraising efficiency. Resource Development Group has specialized in economic development fundraising since 1995. The merger represents expansion and enhanced service capacity — not downsizing. Specialized services are increasingly necessary in economic development. Quality of place directly impacts talent attraction and business retention. Rural communities require tailored fundraising strategies. Strategic collaboration can elevate service delivery and outcomes. Trust and cooperation are foundational in business partnerships. Leadership transitions create opportunities for innovation. Data analysis will enhance strategic decision-making and client impact.

    40 min

  6. FEB 25

    DT #622 Purpose, Control & Courage: Why the Next Generation Is Choosing Entrepreneurship Mark C. Perna

    In this forward-looking episode of Develop This!, Dennis sits down with acclaimed speaker, author, and CEO Mark C. Perna to unpack one of the most important shifts facing economic and community development professionals today: the rise of the entrepreneurial generation. With 84% of Gen Z expressing interest in entrepreneurship, communities must rethink how they build talent pipelines, support startups, and cultivate opportunity. Mark shares insights from his 27+ years of building impactful businesses and explains why today's youth view risk, safety, and control differently than previous generations. For them, entrepreneurship isn't rebellion—it's stability. It's ownership. It's purpose. Drawing from his bestselling book Answering Why and his work through TFS Results, Mark explores how communities can better align education, workforce development, and economic strategy to support this shift. This episode is packed with practical takeaways for economic developers, chamber leaders, workforce boards, and higher education partners looking to future-proof their ecosystems. Key Insights for Economic Developers The Generational Shift 84% of Gen Z are interested in entrepreneurship. Young people see traditional employment as riskier than ownership. Control, flexibility, and purpose are powerful motivators. Lower Barriers, Bigger Opportunities Physical storefronts are no longer required to launch a business. Social media, freelance platforms, and digital tools have democratized entrepreneurship. Communities must pivot from recruitment-only strategies to startup cultivation. Managing Risk & Building Resilience Risk management—not risk avoidance—is the true entrepreneurial skill. Failure is data. Reflection drives growth. Adaptability is the competitive advantage of modern founders. Leadership in the New Economy Integrity and vision are non-negotiable. Decisiveness builds confidence in teams. Shared vision is critical when managing remote and distributed teams. Avoiding Mission Creep Clarity of purpose prevents dilution. A strong "North Star" helps organizations streamline offerings and maximize impact. Focus drives scalability. Why This Matters for Community & Economic Development Entrepreneurship is no longer a niche strategy—it's a central economic development driver. Mark discusses his Education with Purpose & Employment with Passion movement and his involvement with the International Economic Development Council, emphasizing the need for tighter alignment between: K–12 education Higher education Workforce development Employers Economic development organizations Communities that connect these dots will win the future talent war. Practical Takeaways Start small—but start. Define your North Star. Build ecosystems, not just incentives. Teach risk literacy. Focus on value creation over scale. Use failure as a confidence-building tool. About Mark Mark C. Perna is an internationally recognized speaker, author, and CEO who has examined education and careers through a generational lens since 2019. He is the founder of TFS Results and creator of the Education with Purpose & Employment with Passion movement. A graduate of John Carroll University, Mark serves on the Advisory Council for the Coalition for Career Development and is a member of the International Economic Development Council. His viral writing on the education crisis continues to spark national dialogue around workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and generational change.

    44 min

  7. FEB 25

    DT #624 Beyond the Terminal: Reframing Community Airports as Economic Engines

    In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Ron Kresha, Chief Financial Officer and founding member of Golden Shovel Agency, to explore the powerful — and often overlooked — role of community airports in economic development. Drawing from his professional expertise and personal passion for aviation, Ron makes a compelling case for why community airports must be viewed not as line-item expenses, but as anchor institutions that drive investment, healthcare access, business recruitment, and long-term growth. From general aviation to essential air service, airport marketing to emerging aviation technology, this episode delivers actionable insights for community and economic development leaders ready to elevate their local airport strategy. 1. Community Airports: Expense or Economic Engine? Ron challenges the common misconception that airports are financial drains. Instead, he reframes them as infrastructure investments that produce measurable ROI through: Business attraction and retention Corporate aviation access Site selection competitiveness Tourism and regional connectivity 2. The Critical Role of General Aviation While commercial flights often dominate the conversation, general aviation is a major contributor to local economies. Corporate aircraft, medical flights, flight training, agricultural aviation, and logistics operations all rely on well-maintained community airports. For many communities, general aviation is the real driver of economic activity. 3. Essential Air Service & Small Community Survival Ron highlights the importance of Essential Air Service (EAS) for rural and smaller communities. Reliable air connectivity supports: Healthcare access Executive travel Talent recruitment Emergency response 4. Airport Marketing & Community Engagement One of the strongest themes of the episode is airport awareness. Many residents — and even local leaders — don't fully understand what their airport contributes. Ron emphasizes proactive airport marketing, storytelling, and community engagement to bridge the knowledge gap. Airports must: Share economic impact data Highlight business users Showcase medical and emergency benefits Build pride and awareness locally 5. Avoiding the Vicious Cycle of Decline Underinvestment leads to reduced usage. Reduced usage leads to funding challenges. Funding challenges lead to further decline. Ron urges communities to: Maintain and modernize infrastructure Pursue airport funding opportunities Treat airports as strategic assets Align airport strategy with broader economic development plans 6. The Future of Aviation Technology Looking ahead, the conversation explores: Autonomous aircraft Advanced air mobility Emerging aviation technologies Increased efficiency in general aviation Communities that prepare now will be positioned to capitalize on the next evolution of aviation. Takeaways for Economic Development Professionals Community airports are anchor institutions — not optional amenities. Investment in airport infrastructure generates long-term economic returns. General aviation plays a larger role in local economies than many realize. Essential air service can determine whether small communities thrive or struggle. Airport engagement and marketing are essential to sustaining funding and support. Education and awareness campaigns can transform public perception. The future of aviation presents new opportunities for proactive communities.

    36 min

  8. FEB 18

    DT #620 The Power of Place: What U.S. Communities Can Learn from Australia's Country University Centers

    Show Notes In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Paul Cranch from Brisbane to explore one of the most innovative and community-driven education and workforce models in the world: Country University Centers (CUCs). Designed to expand access to tertiary education in regional and rural Australia, CUCs are community-led, community-run facilities that allow students to pursue university degrees without leaving their hometowns. The result? Stronger local economies, reduced brain drain, and a new generation of homegrown talent fueling regional prosperity. Paul shares how this model emerged, why it works, and what economic development professionals around the world can learn from its success. Key Topics Covered The origins and purpose of Country University Centers, and how they were created to serve regional Australia Why community-led, community-run facilities matter in expanding access to higher education Reversing brain drain by keeping students local and attracting talent back to rural communities Creative funding models combining federal, state, local, and private sector investment Economic ripple effects: workforce development, business engagement, and entrepreneurship Scaling and sustaining the model while keeping communities at the center Lessons for other regions, including online learning partnerships, governance structures, and community engagement strategies Real-world success stories featuring student demographics, degree programs, and regional outcomes About Paul Cranch Paul Cranch is an experienced economic development professional, consultant, and thought leader dedicated to helping communities turn local potential into lasting prosperity. Based in Queensland, Paul has worked extensively with councils, regional organizations, and state agencies to strengthen local economies, attract investment, and build professional capability. He is the founder of Local Economic Impact Advisory, an independent consultancy focused on data-driven strategy and place-based impact. Paul is also the voice behind several influential professional newsletters—EcDev with Paul, EcDev Jobs, and EcDev Data—connecting thousands of practitioners across Australia and internationally with practical, evidence-based insights. Before returning to Australia, Paul spent more than a decade in Japan, studying commerce in Japanese at Kansai University and building a career in brand management and international business development. This experience shaped his global perspective on cross-cultural partnerships, investment facilitation, and place branding. He is an active contributor to Economic Development Australia and international networks such as the International Economic Development Council, where he champions professional development, community readiness, and practical leadership. When he's not advising communities or writing about economic development, Paul can be found training at CrossFit, volunteering in Brisbane's Japanese community, or traveling across regional Australia discovering the stories that shape local economies. Featured Resource Paul is the author of: BUILDING PLACES INVESTORS BELIEVE IN: How to attract, win, and keep businesses investing in your region

    31 min
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Explore topics related to transformational community leadership including economic development, non-profit engagement, organizational management, and policy development. It's a candid conversation with veterans of the economic development profession along with inspiring interviews of today's thought leaders.

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