Metro Metrics: Perspectives from Peer Communities

This year’s Economic Development Summit, presented by UBS, brought together regional leaders to dive into the data and peer community perspectives to explore “What’s Next” for economic development in our community.

Ted Abernathy of Economic Leadership kicked off the event with highlights and key lessons learned in the latest metro comparison data, showcasing key business growth metrics from the top 100 largest metros in the U.S. His presentation, which covered more than 268 comparative metrics and found Raleigh to be the No. 2 Top Metro overall, gave attendees a better understanding of how the Raleigh metro continues to stay competitive in the ever-changing landscape. Learn more and download the Raleigh Metro Comparison report here.

Attendees also gained valuable insights from influential chamber leaders nationwide with a panel moderated by moderated by our own Greater Raleigh Chamber President and CEO, Adrienne Cole. The panel included:

• Brian D. Anderson, President and CEO of ChamberRVA
• Angela Franco, President and CEO of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
• Joe Reardon, President and CEO of the Kansas City Chamber

Together, the leaders discussed how their organizations use data to drive decision making, challenges and successes in transit and transportation and funding tools for large scale community projects. We gained valuable insight on Bus Rapid Transit and multimodal communities from all three metros and a greater understanding of how each community approach complex challenges.

During the Q&A portion of the event, the metro leaders discussed sports as drivers of economic development, making special note of the ways amateur sports contribute. Angela weighed in on the ways changes in federal funding are impacting the greater D.C. metro, and Ted provided insights into ways the metro comparisons data has changed over time, and the potential data impacts of combining the Raleigh and Durham metropolitan statistical areas.

At the conclusion of the panel, Adrienne asked the panelists what does a community need to be successful. Brian and Joe applauded Wake County’s focus on collaboration, affirming the unique ability that chambers of commerce have to convene a wide range of stakeholders. Ted’s advice was to focus on a “win-win” approach when it comes to regional stewardship. And finally, Angela shared to listen to the needs of the community, and don’t shy away from taking the lead.

The event came to an end with an exciting announcement: the EDGE 7 campaign has successfully met its goal, raising more than $7 million! This achievement marks a significant milestone in supporting our region’s business development and economic growth initiatives. We extend our deepest gratitude to the investors and supporters who helped make this possible and look forward to the continued success and growth of our region, driven by these crucial investments. For more information on how to get involved with EDGE 7, click here.