IEA Hosts Arkansas Economic Developers Conference
The Institute for Economic Advancement in the UALR College of Business will host the Arkansas Economic Developers 2010 Spring Conference with a theme of “Red Flags in Industry” March 18 and 19 at the Donald W. Reynolds Center for Business and Economic Development on the UALR campus.
Recognizing the importance of the grassroots level efforts in industrial development, Arkansas Economic Developers in partnership with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, Institute for Economic Advancement, and Arkansas Manufacturing Solutions will present the conference to focus on the early warning signals of observation, research, conversation, rumor, etc. cueing when to pay attention to the needs of existing employers.
“The importance of our existing companies cannot be underestimated,” said Maria Haley, director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “It’s vital to know the signs of a company that needs help. Early assistance can change the outcome for a company facing layoffs or closure, to one that is healthy and expanding.”
Community leaders concerned about business closures and layoffs or worried that other businesses are in jeopardy and community income will be significantly eroded will be interested in this conference. Anyone involved in economic development is invited to attend.
Haley encourages local leaders to make time for this event. “The knowledge gained will allow you to make sure your existing businesses have the tools needed to remain and expand in your community.”
Managed by Eric P. Canada of Blane, Canada Ltd., a workshop and field work will give participants the opportunity to explore the critical warning drivers as well as individual red flag issues. Canada is a nationally recognized authority on business retention and existing business strategy and has built the largest active laboratory of business retention research in North America. He actively works with more than 150 economic development organizations in 35 states and 32 large regional development organizations on all aspects of business retention program design, implementation, and problem solving.
The conference fee is $100. To register, contact Susie Marks at the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce at 501-210-4206, or go to aed-arkansas.org.