Strategic Economic Development
LVEDC councils increase participation and attract expertise in specific areas related to economic development. Our councils and committees engage expert stakeholders who provide perspectives and insights on regional matters. Councils host informative events and discussions on strategic economic development priorities for LVEDC and Lehigh Valley.
The councils and committees of LVEDC are:
Education and Talent Supply Council
This council supports strategies that position Lehigh Valley to attract and retain the talented people our employers need. Under the council’s oversight, LVEDC completed a study in 2018 that resulted in a comprehensive report describing occupational demands and trends for employers, and educational qualifications of graduates. The report provided common and consistent information that guides strategic actions building on the growing collaboration among employers, educators, and community organizations.
Brokers and Developers Council
This council involves regional professionals focused on development needs and opportunities, commercial real estate market trends, and business expansion. Members include industrial and commercial real estate brokers, site selectors, developers, bankers, corporate real estate directors, architects, engineers, construction professionals and others who support strategic growth and development in Lehigh Valley.
Economic Policy Council
This council focuses on legislative issues that advance sound economic development policy. It enables Lehigh Valley to speak with one voice for regional economic development projects, support funding of state economic development and financing programs, and advocate for meaningful actions in support of economic development priorities. The Council seeks partnerships and coalitions to advance the region’s economic agenda in the state. As a 501(c)3, LVEDC is legally limited to 10 percent of its activity for lobbying and legislative affairs, so the Council aims to ensure the best use of time and resources to advocate for the most meaningful change and/or support of strategic economic development priorities. The Council operates under the Board’s policy of not engaging in general business issues, such as taxes, regulations, health care, etc. but only economic development policy. It continues the partnership and cooperation with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Policy Committee on broader, general business issues.
Entrepreneurship Council
This council works to improve Lehigh Valley’s environment for start-up businesses by identifying services they need and connecting them to a wide range of resource providers. The council has developed a map of Lehigh Valley’s entrepreneurial infrastructure and is focused on nurturing an environment in which entrepreneurs have access to the support they need to create and grow new businesses.
Local Sourcing & Business Diversity Council
This council helps foster the growth, development, and connections of small, women-owned, and minority-owned businesses in Lehigh Valley. Strategic initiatives launched by the council assist with business growth and development, education and training, awareness about existing businesses, and support services available to help businesses in this under-served sector
Lehigh Valley Land Recycling Initiative
This council has operated as LVEDC’s redevelopment committee since 1998. LVLRI manages funds accessed through successful grant applications with our regulatory partners DEP and EPA. Since 2013, LVLRI has successfully received $1.3 million dollars for regional redevelopment. LVLRI offers funding assistance for Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, Phase II Environmental Site Assessments, and Site Cleanup/Redevelopment Planning. See more about LVLRI here.
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