Reasons for joining the program:
I am highly interested in connecting with other ED practitioners from across the world and nationally, to explore opportunities for knowledge exchange in key industries that our regions all excel in. In the case of Louisiana for example, its impressive growth in the areas of biotech, cleantech, and maritime resonate with me as the Greater Seattle region also excels in all of these fields. We are competitive in key subsectors that are different to those Louisiana strongly competes in, so collaboration to share common information and different contacts across the same target institutions could be possible. This same partnership is achievable, possibly with more ease, with economies from across the Americas and beyond. I’d also be interested in showing other ACE participants an option for growth in the Greater Seattle area and offer GSP’s site selection and expansion services. Lastly, exploring opportunities for GSP to collaborate with the EDA and the OAS for multiple projects related to sustainability, equitable economic development, and R&D informed by the knowledge gained from the ACE program.

Offer:
The region I currently represent is globally recognized as a strong innovation hub, with thriving economic activity in aerospace, clean technologies, and the life sciences. We are also home to three major ports, and a significant gateway to multiple countries in the Pacific Rim. Louisiana shows impressive growth in many of the same industry clusters, although across different subsectors. I can provide knowledge exchange and connections to the PNW to our hosts and Louisiana stakeholders. Similarly, my past experience designing incubator and accelerator models, connecting startups to universities for R&D and proof of concept, and designing business attraction strategies for specific industry clusters can allow me to advise program leaders and entrepreneurs alike – in Louisiana and among other ACE participants. As demonstrated previously, I also make sure to stay in touch with my ACE networks and volunteer to organize, host, or participate in multiple thought leadership events after programs have come to an end.