Thursday, July 31, 2003
In more signs that the autio parts industry is reviving, Governor Warner in Vriginia highlighted a number of auto industry expansions in his state.
In the past couple of months, Japanese auto suppliers have started expanding or opening plants in the U.S.
Meanwhile in Maryland, EDPros are quietly hoping that manufacturing is starting to revive . Richard Clinch, director of research at the University of Baltimore's Jacob France Center, said, "I think the worst of the economic downturn is over, barring any unforeseen circumstances."
EDPros are anticipating that growth, if it comes, will focus on manufacturing firms with fewer than fifty employees.
Some Background on EDPro Weblog
The purpose of this weblog is to help economic development professionals -- EDPros -- keep up with the changes sweeping our profession. Strap on your goggles. It's a whole new game. There are no experts any more. The only place to learn about economic development is from other EDPros who are doing it.
One other point: the prevaling approach (paradigm, if you like) in economic development is shifting from competition to collaboration. There are a lot of reaasons underlying this shift, but here's the important insight: You, your community, and your region will do better by collaborating and sharing information.
If you are using a news reader, here is the link to syndicate this site:
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Speaking and workshops on Open Source Economic Development
As the idea of Open Source Economic Development starts spreading, more people are asking about it. Visit the I-Open web site to learn more. My colleagues and I are happy to explain the basic concepts in a talk or a workshop. E-mail Susan Alshuler if you'd like to learn more about workshops and speaking.
Background on Ed Morrison
Download some background information on me here.
Auto parts expansions in Virginia: Are the signs turning?
