How Are Economic Developers Partnering to Solve Workforce Challenges?

<p>To attract, retain and expand businesses in today’s tight labor market, economic development organizations (EDOs) are becoming more involved than ever in partnerships to help meet employers’ talent pipeline and training needs. What do those partnerships look like? Effective Economic Development Roles in Workforce Partnerships, a new report from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), explores five case studies of talent initiatives in which an EDO had a central or convening role. The report identifies common drivers, roles and recommendations based on initiatives at the Greater Memphis Chamber; JAXUSA Partnership in Jacksonville, Fla.; Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation in Pa.; Norfolk Works in Norfolk, Va.; and Firelands Forward in northern Ohio.</p> <p>The report notes that EDOs are particularly active in creating talent pipeline programs, but also are facilitating training programs, creating networks, and securing funding, among multiple other roles. Many now have a staff leadership position dedicated to workforce development, something virtually unheard of at an EDO a decade or two ago.</p> <p>The community programs share many similar drivers. Each aims to have systemic impact on local workforce issues, plans actions based on data, and includes explicit equity goals. In addition, they are part of networks of local or regional stakeholders in workforce and economic development, and may also serve as lead champion and external communicator.</p> <p>The cases had other characteristics in common. One was strong EDO staff leading the workforce partnership – individuals who are highly skilled at communicating and building and maintaining relationships. In each case, staff were familiar with the community, with education and workforce [...]</p>