Growing Forward

In 2017, the EDC of Lawrence & Douglas County proposed a new strategy for economic growth. We have the opportunity to be one of the most vibrant communities in America. We will be prepared to use the assets we have and take advantage of the opportunities heading our way. Our region and its citizens will see prosperity thanks to the strategic leverage of our economic gains, assets, and opportunities, leading to forward progress.

The EDC will focus on five initiatives to focus on during the Growing Forward campaign (2017-2021). These goals will be accomplished by continued private sector involvement to complement and expand upon existing support from the City of Lawrence and Douglas County on behalf of their citizens.

The EDC is committed to making economic growth and vitality its top priority. The five areas of focus for the organization are:
• Business Retention & Expansion
• Workforce Development
• Business Recruitment & Marketing
• Entrepreneurship & Startups
• Site & Infrastructure Capacity

While each initiative has its own goals, strategies, and action steps, which you can see here, our overarching goals are to grow jobs and expand our economic base. Lawrence and Douglas County must continue to be strategic about how we can improve our business climate and support improvements to make our area the pace for businesses to be.

It’s time to grow forward and lead Lawrence and Douglas County.