The Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corp. continues to evolve to fulfill our mission to build tomorrow’s economy today as we launch a powerful new initiative during 2013 that will demonstrate the vibrancy and creativity of our community.

The LVEDC Councils were created around specific subjects and priorities that will marshal the resources, talents and skills of LVEDC investors and non-investors to deal head-on with most salient issues facing economic development. The councils will place a premium on collaboration and feedback that is a precursor to action that will directly and indirectly spur economic development.

The councils are expected to convene on a quarterly or on an as-needed basis and will have a primary staff liaison from LVEDC along with a non-staff chairperson to lead the group.

The councils are as follows:

Brokers and Developers Council: This council will be comprised mostly of commercial and industrial real estate brokers, site selectors, developers, bankers, corporate real estate engineers, architects, construction professionals and those involved in the development and expansion of commercial and industrial business. The focus here will be on discussing market trends, identifying development needs and opportunities and enhancing the strategic focus of LVEDC and the region to support growth and development.

Local Government Council: The Lehigh Valley is home to 62 municipalities and two county governments. This council will be comprised solely of elected and appointed officials from those entities and they will discuss such development issues as planning, zoning, infrastructure, regulation or other issues related to economic development.

Innovation, Talent and Entrepreneurship Council: Powered by folks whose occupations are focused on advancing innovation, the development of start-up businesses and entrepreneurship throughout the Lehigh Valley. This council will provide strategic guidance on the development of the regional innovation ecosystem that will support our progressive start-up community.

Regional Partners Council: This is the only council with membership by invitation only. The intent here is to create a regular forum where leaders of regional organizations, institutions, governments and private businesses can meet to adv advance coordination, eliminate duplication and develop coordinated regular plans to best utilize the resources of our region to advance job creation and economic development.

Sustainability Council: This council’s agenda is straightforward: sustainable economic development. This will be accomplished by promoting sustainable development practices such as regional planning, urban growth, and brownfield redevelopment.

Women and Minority Business Opportunity Council: This council will attract individuals whose occupations or interests are focused on advancing and helping to create women-owned and minority-owned businesses. Previously a standing committee, this council will work on the development of strategic initiatives to assist in business growth and development, education and training and driving awareness about existing businesses and support services.

Keep your eyes open, as we’ll be posting more information during the year with additional information about the formation and progress of all these councils!