In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson interviews Rob Williams, director of SourceLink, a not-for-profit organization that collaborates with economic development agencies to promote entrepreneurial-led economic growth. Rob details SourceLink's origins in 2003 in Kansas City, Missouri, where it began as an initiative to better connect local entrepreneurs to resources, evolving into a significant player in fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems across the U.S. He discusses the early challenges of advocating for entrepreneurship in economic development, the importance of tailored community strategies, and practical steps communities can take to engage and support local entrepreneurs. Rob emphasizes the evolving understanding and importance of entrepreneurship in economic development, sharing insights from his extensive experience and the impact of SourceLink's work in various communities.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps!

Special Guest: Rob Williams.

Sponsored By:

• Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.

Links:

• SourceLink – Entrepreneurial Ecosystem & Community Building
• Rob Williams | LinkedIn
• Entrepreneurship Development Professional (EDP)
• Our Network – SourceLink
• Iowa Innovation, Powered by NewBoCo: #9: Building Ecosystems (ft. Rob Williams)
• e.Builders Forum (Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Builders Forum) InBIA