1. GFMEDC semi-annual report - Laserfiche WebLink

GREATER ar o oor ea Economic Development Corporation Executive Summary 2013 Activity In 2013, the GFMEDC actively engaged with primary-sector companies, investors, city, county and state leaders and partner organizations to grow and diversify the economy of the Fargo Moorhead MSA. The GFMEDC follows a plan of work that is approved each year by its board of directors as well as both the Cass County Commission and the Clay County Commission. The following is a summary of those activities. Business development and expansion remained active throughout 2013, with GFMEDC staff conducting 143 business retention visits and assisting in 36 local expansion projects as well as 29 attraction projects. Total community impact from these potential opportunities would equal approximately $135 million in expenditures, 1.1 million in new commercial property square feet and the creation of 2,215 jobs. New businesses that have committed the smart move to Fargo- Moorhead plan to create about 200 new jobs and invest more than $35 million into their operations. Staff attended numerous economic development meetings with area cities as well as leaders at the state level. In an effort to develop and attract workforce, the GFMEDC added an additional staff member dedicated to workforce development. A new careers page on the organization website was launched and staff coordinated informal events where job seekers connected with employers. Staff is following a comprehensive marketing strategy to recruit people to the area and continues to partner with area higher education institutions and their alumni branches. Further, the GFMEDC continues it STEM education efforts including the Teachers in Industry internship program, growing the program to six companies in 2013. Staff continues to build regional capacity and strengthen the regional economy by supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem and events for entrepreneurs. The GFMEDC sponsored events such as Startup Weekend and Cultiviate.you and regularly participates in activities designed to engage startups, providing them opportunities to learn and network. The GFMEDC is also involved in the Valley Prosperity Partnership, a group of regional leaders dedicated to developing a Red River Valley strategic plan. In addition, staff met with and attended events with more than 300 investors and community partners. The GFMEDC launched a new website that is more user-friendly and is content driven. The organization publishes a monthly electronic newsletter, manages a blog that is highlighted on InForum and manages social media content. Following is a more detailed report of the GFMEDC staff activities. Thank you for your continued support of the GFMEDC and economic development.