CEO Corner: Increase in economic development activity, two jobs open

Economic development activity is increasing in Skagit County as EDASC prepares to hire a second economic development manager, with a focus on Business Recruitment, Retention & Expansion. Aaron Weinberg, who has served as Economic Development and External Relations Manager for nearly a year, will continue to focus on strategic projects such as the Economic Recovery Plan and workforce issues. As well, EDASC is partnering with RAIN, the Regional Accelerator & Innovation Network, to create an entrepreneurial ecosystem here in Skagit County.

The new Economic Development Manager at EDASC will focus on the core aspects of economic development: business retention and expansion, which means working with existing businesses to help them overcome obstacles and grow locally, and business attraction, working to recruit suitable new companies to the area. For more information, or to apply, please click here. The two economic development managers will work closely together particularly in support of newly formed and existing local businesses, in conjunction with our Bilingual Business Advisor.

RAIN’s “Venture Catalyst” position will work within the community to assess and nurture the county’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, connecting people to the resources that help foster a prosperous local economy. The ideal candidate should have experience starting or scaling up a company and/or significant experience in the startup ecosystem, enabling them to understand the value of building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that is inclusive, accessible, and community-focused.

The program is funded by Skagit County with ARPA funding under the EDASC Economic Recovery Plan for Skagit County. It is an independent contractor position, so although the person will work closely with EDASC and RAIN, they will not be an employee of either. The deadline to apply for this position is fast-approaching, on Nov 7. To apply, visit Open Positions - RAIN (oregonrain.org).

These economic development roles help Skagit County to be well-positioned for future growth across industries and business stages. I look forward to reporting back on the positive impact these positions have in our communities. And stay tuned, because EDASC has one more position to fill in the coming months ...