One of the best sources of information and assistance for startup and expanding business is the local economic
development agency. These agencies are public, private or even a public/private partnership, and their purpose
is to promote economic growth and development by assisting existing industries and encouraging new
businesses to locate in their area.
Local economic development agencies will help any business, regardless of size, with market demographics, real
estate costs and availability, zoning and regulatory issues, workforce demographics, training issues, referrals to
similar companies and many other issues of concern. Additionally, local economic development groups offer
local government, private and not-for-profit sectors, and local communities the opportunity to work together
to improve the local economy by focusing on enhancing competitiveness, increasing sustainable growth and
ensuring that growth is inclusive.
Please find the following list of economic development agencies located throughout the State. Should you have
questions, please contact the respective local office that can provide you assistance.