Nate Strum, executive director of Grow Licking County, joined GROW Licking County Community Improvement Corporation in 2015, three years into the CIC’s existence. As executive director, Nate serves as the primary point of contact for business and industry attraction and expansion inquiries about Licking County.

Prior to Grow Licking County, Nate served as project manager of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Industrial Development Corporation. He also worked as a business development specialist in Allegheny County and as planner/zoning administrator for the City of Zanesville.

In this episode, Nate discusses GROW Licking County Community Improvement Corporation’s recent manufacturing strategic plan and its efforts to develop a supportive ecosystem. We also cover the role of economic development professionals in developing regional business and educational partnerships that can help companies thrive.