REAL Exclusive Magazine

North Port Economic Development Corporation’s Approach To Regional Growth.

The North Port Economic Development Corporation (NPEDC) was founded to create growth using good, old-fashioned entrepreneurial spirit. There is no public funding. Many states, including Florida, already have some form of private-sector participation. What is stunning at the NPEDC is that all the efforts, administration and initiatives are funded by ‘investor partners’ – not on tax dollar seed-money. The North Port Economic Development Corporation is a true collaboration of all parties involved – private, public and individual – all are able to become investment partners with equal standing and influence.

Advocates say it makes sense to separate the task of creating jobs from large government agencies that often have a broader mission. Monitoring incentives is a very different task from identifying growth opportunities and building the consensus to achieve this growth. When invested regional businesses and individuals are part of the conversation with the government agencies, smart growth can occur. “It’s a matter of greater flexibility and the ability to act more like a chamber [of commerce] rather than a state agency,” said Wisconsin’s governor Scott Walker, adding that private groups are better equipped to create jobs and attract companies.

For more information visit www.northportedc.com