Fourth Economy’s Post

The Recreation Economy for Rural Communities planning assistance program helps communities identify strategies to grow their #OutdoorRecreation economy and revitalize their #MainStreets. Applications are opening soon. Subscribe to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s Office of Community Revitalization newsletter for updates. https://lnkd.in/gYj4ht_H Fourth Economy can help you assess the cultural and outdoor ecosystem in your community, communicate the value of these assets, and implement plans for leveraging them to create jobs, generate revenue, and make your community a more vibrant place to live and work. Check out the resources linked below to learn more. Are you connected to the outdoor economy? https://lnkd.in/gXpGR7yx Leveraging the Economic Potential of Arts, Cultural, and Outdoor Recreation Assets https://lnkd.in/g4C8M6em

The Fourth Economy team is on the move. Interested in connecting with us at an upcoming conference? 💬 Reach out today! Southern Economic Development Council Annual Conference 🗓 July 28-30 📍 Savannah, GA Anne Elizabeth Jensen, MSPPM, and Ross Berlin, MPA, Consultants, are attending the conference. Michigan Economic Developers Association 2024 Annual Meeting | Sponsor 🗓 August 13-16 📍 Bellaire, MI Sally J. G., Vice President, is attending and exhibiting at the annual meeting. Ohio Economic Development Association Annual Summit 🗓 September 4-6 📍 Toledo, OH Justin Wheeler, Consultant, is attending and speaking at the summit. International Economic Development Council Annual Conference 🗓 September 15-18 📍 Denver, CO Maura Kay, Consultant, is attending the conference and co-hosting a session with Kristopher Smith of Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) Jacksonville.

The $500 million Green Chips Community Investment Fund was established to amplify the benefits of Micron Technology's $100 billion investment in New York State, a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine the region's economic landscape, emphasizing community benefits alongside economic growth. Beginning August 15th, the Fund will accept letters of intent for projects that focus on workforce development, education, community investments and housing. More information and registration for community workshops that will offer guidance and technical assistance to prepare submissions is available on Empire State Development's website: https://lnkd.in/gDDeUfPh Learn about the pivotal role Fourth Economy played in facilitating broad-based community engagement to ensure the investment translates into tangible benefits for local residents here: https://lnkd.in/gUAgC-ia #SemiconductorManufacturing #CentralNY #EconDev #CommunityEngagement #CommunityPrioritiesDocument

The number of breweries, wineries, and distilleries in Iowa has increased significantly in recent years, and the industry is now a major contributor to the state's economy. Fourth Economy was engaged by the Iowa Economic Development Authority to conduct an economic impact analysis of the craft beer, wine, and distillery industries in the state, including the direct, indirect, and induced impact. The report found that Iowa breweries generated a total economic impact of $1.25 billion from brewery operations, trade, and tourism in 2022. Read the article to explore additional findings 👉

Passing laws that target people and seek to eliminate or restrict programs and organizations that support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives is a decision that has economic and workforce ramifications. Leaders that have brought forth this legislation have staked out positions that leave little doubt about how they view tolerance and empathy or the economic health of their constituents in favor of personal beliefs. Read the blog by Rich Overmoyer to dive deeper on this topic.

In anticipation of the #CopaAmerica final this Sunday, head over to our blog to learn how cities prepare for major sporting events and the legacy they leave behind. To our Steer Columbia colleagues - we're rooting for you! ⚽ #sports #economicimpact #legacybenefits

Last year, more than 510 anti-LGBTQ bills were introduced in state legislatures across the U.S. – more than the previous three years combined. Though many of these bills ultimately fail or are challenged in court, their mere introduction has political, psychological, and economic consequences. Read the blog by Justin Wheeler and Anne Elizabeth Jensen, MSPPM, to explore some of the potential economic impacts of anti-LGBTQ legislation.

In recognition of Caribbean American Heritage Month this June, Fourth Economy team members Denique Dennis-Young and Oshane Mcrae, both of Caribbean descent, acknowledge the history of economic disenfranchisement of the Caribbean American community, honor their economic ingenuity, and share calls to action for fostering their increased economic well being. Join us in celebrating the contributions of Caribbean Americans on the US Economy and learn ideas for integrating more inclusive community and economic development practices. Read the blog ⏩

This year’s 48th #CopaAmerica, a quadrennial men’s soccer tournament that includes qualifiers from throughout the Americas, is equal parts competition and trial-run. The big event, FIFA World Cup 2026™ - Canada, Mexico and the United States, looms ahead just two years from now. Host cities are already making short and long-term investments in their infrastructure to maximize the tournament’s #economicimpact.