In this episode of the Develop This podcast, Dennis Fraise and Betsey Suchanic explore strategies for ensuring that economic development reaches every corner of a community. They discuss the various programs offered by the New Growth Innovation Network (NGIN), including the LEAP program, which is an all-expense paid professional development experience for economic and community leaders from smaller cities (up to 500,000) to learn from other small and midsized cities that are paving the way through collaboration and innovation. Applications for LEAP are open now and close March 10, 2025. Apply now at newgrowth.org/leap!

They also talk about NGIN's Economic Inclusion Incubator, which provides technical assistance for project implementation; and the Cityscapes Summit, NGIN's biennial national gathering for city leaders. The conversation emphasizes the need for cross-sector collaboration and the significance of building relationships in economic development.

Takeaways

• LEAP stands for Learn, Explore, Activate in Place.
• The LEAP program helps cities learn from each other.
• Cross-sector collaboration is crucial for economic development.
• The Economic Inclusion Incubator supports project implementation.
• Cityscape Summit gathers leaders from small and mid-sized cities.
• Building relationships is key in economic development.
• The LEAP program is an entry point for cities.
• The Economic Inclusion Incubator offers 12 months of support.