
By R.J. DeLuke
“It’s great to see the revitalization in the region, especially in the city of Glens Falls,” said Andrew Kennedy, president and CEO of the Center for Economic Growth (CEG) leading off his remarks at the annual EDC Warren County economic outlook breakfast at The Queensbury Hotel in Glens Falls on March 22.
CEG is the regional economic development organization for the greater Capital Region and New York’s Tech Valley that includes Warren County. He was one of three speakers at the event, each of them with talking points about how public/private partnership and collaboration have helped–and can continue to be a vital part of–local economic development.
Kennedy outlined the services his agency can provide, such as helping attract new business and investment, supporting programs that allow businesses to thrive and preparing communities for development opportunities when they arrive.
Among the specific programs Kennedy viewed as important was the Business Growth Solutions program for small to medium-sized companies in the manufacturing and technology sectors across several industries. CEG team members and third-party partners help businesses find new revenues and increase profitability.
He said it has had a $40 million impact on the area’s economy.
Another highlighted program was Talent Connect, a new program that helps employers recruit and retain skilled workers. It also identifies jobs that are emerging and helps create a skilled workforce for them
“We like to be that sort of connective tissue, that one-stop shop,” for assisting businesses, said Kennedy.