Sunday, June 06, 2004
A group of foundations in Minnesota, led by The McKnight Foundation and the Blandin Foundation, are promoting regional economic development.
Importantly, the foundations are working closely wiith higher education institutions in the state. The foundations provide the opportunity to align higher education resources more closely to the needs of employers. As one participant notes: "Higher education... is a critical component of regional economic development. When these institutions work closely with employers, communities and organizations like RED Group and the MIFs, we can more efficiently and effectively educate and train workers and apply research and technical assistance to economic development initiatives statewide. The fund will help foster this cooperation."
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.
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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.
Minnesota foundations promote regional economic development
