News

Mid America EDC Celebrates Independent Retailers Month

Monday, July 11, 2022

This July, we’re taking a look at the important role of independent retailers in economic development, and how we can support the retail stores in our communities and encourage people to shop local. Indie retailers create more sustainable towns, cities, and communities and are part of what makes a downtown thriving. Our Annual Best Practices Conference is in Springfield, Ohio this July 13-15, and is a perfect opportunity to celebrate unique retail shopping experiences. Springfield is the Antique Capital of the Midwest and has incredible shopping, including: Heart of Ohio Antique Center - With 116,000 square feet and 650 dealers, there’s no en...

Mid-America Board Member Spotlight: Tina Chitwood

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Meet Tina Chitwood, Wisconsin Director Tell us about yourself! How long have you been on the Mid-America EDC board? I’ve been on the Board of MAEDC for 1 ½ years. I’m a collaborator. I find the most joy in my life and work when I’m able to connect the dots to make the most complex economic development deals come to life, as well as when I’m able to manage the busy social and sports calendars of my three children, husband, dog and myself! Tell us about the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and your role as Senior Economic Development Director. WEDC is a nimble...

Mid America EDC Celebrates National Rivers Month

Monday, June 13, 2022

Mid America’s Rivers and Inland Ports Play a Significant Role in Supply Chain Management June is National Rivers Month, and all of us at Mid America EDC recognize the vital role our rivers play in our region’s prosperity. Mid America is home to several of the largest and most iconic American rivers including the Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, and St. Louis, just to name a few. These rivers make the swift and efficient distribution of goods all over the country possible. Inland ports are also an important contributor to the economic prosperity of Mid America. Mid America is home to two major inlan...

Mid America EDC Board Member Spotlight: John Hall

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

Meet John Hall, Iowa Director How long have you been a member of the Mid America EDC? I have been a member of Mid America EDC for the last 6 years. How long have you been a member of the Mid America EDC Board? I have been on the board since December 2019 What’s one of the best things about the Mid America EDC and what’s something everyone should know about the Mid America EDC? As a young economic developer I view Mid America EDC as a great opportunity to network with other folks in the industry from across the entire region. The knowledge and expertise i...

Mid America EDC Celebrates National Inventors Month in May

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

May is National Inventors Month, and utilizing Inventors & Entrepreneurs (I&E) Clubs in our region is a great economic development strategy for many reasons, including that I&E Clubs provide a cost-effective way to cultivate new businesses and business ideas. In addition, these clubs provide valuable contributions to the local economy in every community, regardless of size, location, or budget. The exchange of ideas, resources, and networking opportunities that are available through an I&E club makes it an effective way to turn ideas into thriving businesses, creating jobs and a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. According to existing club organizers, one o...

MAEDC Board Member Spotlight: Cathleen Flournoy

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Meet Cathleen Flournoy, Missouri Director Tell us about yourself! How long have you been on the Mid-America EDC board? I’m a proud graduate of Missouri State in Springfield, MO, and a die-hard Kansas Jayhawks fan! I’ve worked in economic development since 1999 when I started with the City of Kansas City, MO. I am wife to Dan (almost 25 years) and mom to Grace, Jack, Thad, Catie and Ellie – along with 3 dogs (Phoggy, Nikita and Luna). As you can imagine, we have a busy life but we love it! I love to run and cook, both of which com...

This Spring Celebrate Mid America’s Incredible Natural Resources

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

April is Keep America Beautiful Month, and with warmer weather, spring flowers, and longer days, it’s the perfect time to take action to make sure the communities in the thirteen states that comprise the Mid America region are safe and clean spaces. The Mid America region has vast natural treasures, including Yellowstone, the Black Hills, and the Great Lakes. Overall, National Parks in the Mid America region made a huge economic contribution to their state economies. In 2020, there were 24.2 million visitors to National Parks in Mid America, with combined spending of $1.8 billion. In addition, National Parks accounted fo...