Partnering with Local Economic Development Offices: A Practical Guide for Small to Mid-Sized Manufacturers

As a manufacturing business owner, you know how important it is to stay competitive, grow your operations, and find new opportunities. One often overlooked partner in this journey is your local economic development office (EDO). These offices are there to help you succeed, but many small and mid-sized manufacturers don’t know how to leverage these local resources effectively.

What Are Local Economic Development Offices?

Economic Development Offices are local government or public-private organizations dedicated to promoting economic growth in your community. They work to attract new businesses, support existing ones, and improve the local workforce and infrastructure.

Most EDOs offer a range of services, including:

• Business consulting and planning

• Workforce development programs

• Incentive programs and grants

• Site selection assistance

• Networking opportunities

Understanding what these offices do can help your manufacturing business access resources that support growth, innovation, and resilience.

Why Partner with Your Local EDO?

Partnering with your local EDO offers tangible benefits:

• Access to Grants and Funding: Many EDOs help businesses find grants or incentives to upgrade equipment, expand facilities, or improve energy efficiency.

• Workforce Development: They can connect you with training programs to help you find skilled workers or upskill your current team.

• Business Retention and Expansion Support: EDOs aim to keep your business thriving locally, providing assistance during expansion or challenges.

• Networking and Collaboration: They facilitate connections with other local businesses, industry groups, and educational institutions.

These relationships aren’t just about quick fixes—they can form the foundation for long-term success, helping your business adapt to market changes and technological advances.

How to Start a Partnership

Step 1: Reach Out and Introduce Your Business

Begin by contacting your local EDO. Visit their website, pick up the phone, or attend local business events where EDO representatives are present. Be prepared to share information about your business—what you do, your needs, and your goals.

Step 2: Identify Specific Needs and Goals

Are you looking for funding to upgrade machinery? Workforce training? Assistance navigating regulation or finding new markets? Knowing your priorities helps the EDO direct you to appropriate programs and resources.

Step 3: Collaborate on a Plan

Work with your EDO contact to develop a plan tailored to your needs. This could include applying for grants, participating in workforce development programs, or exploring site upgrades. Many offices have dedicated staff to guide you through applications and compliance.

Step 4: Stay Engaged

Keep communication open. Attend workshops, industry events, or training sessions provided by the EDO. Being involved helps you stay informed about new opportunities and resources.

Successful Examples from Local Manufacturers

Consider how other local manufacturers have benefited:

• Sample Manufacturer A: Partnered with their EDO to receive a workforce grant that trained 20 employees in advanced manufacturing software, boosting productivity and quality.

• Sample Manufacturer B: Used an EDO-sponsored site assessment to identify infrastructure improvements, resulting in a $500,000 state grant for expansion.

These examples show that with proactive engagement, local partnerships can lead to real growth and stability.

Final Tips for Building a Strong Partnership

• Be Open and Honest: Clearly communicate your needs and challenges.

• Follow Through: Complete paperwork, attend meetings, and keep your commitments.

• Stay Informed: Regularly check in for updates on resources or new programs.

• Build Relationships: Attend community events and industry functions to expand your network.

In Summary

Partnering with your local economic development office isn’t just a good idea; it’s a practical step toward strengthening your manufacturing business. They’re a resource to help you manage change, access funding, develop your workforce, and connect with your community. Approach this relationship with a clear plan, and you may find it’s one of the most valuable business investments you make.

For more information on your local EDO, visit your city or county government website or contact them directly. Building a strong local partnership today can set the stage for a more resilient tomorrow.