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In December, my connections have morphed into partnerships. For the remainder of my project, the non-profit SERCAP, representatives from the NC Department of Commerce, and local economic developers have agreed to work alongside me, deepening our impact and enhancing our credibility with the communities we serve. Their involvement not only elevates the visibility of our efforts but also assures the people that we are committed to creating lasting, meaningful change. Over the next year and a half, we will engage with three different counties to organize strategic planning, regional marketing, and small business development initiatives.

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I had the opportunity to meet with representatives from the Visit Missouri Tourism Marketing Department to collaborate on strategic planning, direction, and budget considerations. We engaged in a comprehensive discussion on optimizing tourism initiatives, with a focus on fostering regional economic growth and enhancing the long-term sustainability of the tourism sector. This conversation was key to aligning resources and efforts for maximizing the impact of future planning in my marketing strategy.

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My kids and I regularly explore the Appalachian Mountains. This time, I brought them along to witness firsthand not only the devastation caused by the storm but also the incredible resilience and courage of the people rebuilding in the wake of it. My oldest, already a passionate climate change activist, found this experience deeply impactful, helping to solidify his commitment and inspire the direction of his school projects this year. It was a powerful reminder of the strength communities have in overcoming unexpected challenges and instilling hope that we will find the answers together, over time.

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In response to the devastating hurricane damage in Western North Carolina, my primary focus was on supporting the recovery and resilience of our affected communities. Through collaboration with my dedicated associates, I helped coordinate relief efforts on the Eastern side of the state. Establishing local donation sites and managing logistics for donation schedules. We also organized free training services for healthcare professionals eager to assist, provided talk therapy sessions, and facilitated somatic gatherings to support the emotional well-being of those impacted.

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At the IEDC conference in Denver, I had the privilege of sharing insights on community investment funds, showcasing how these powerful financial tools can truly transform communities by organizing efforts and providing targeted support. For me, this event wasn’t just about learning—it was a moment that truly brought the fellows together, fostering a deep sense of connection and shared purpose.

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Charting a course for regional growth - diving into small business development and anchored in the power of community.

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My efforts revolved around unveiling the project in NC; the first set of round tables were scheduled for the fall, the launch of a dedicated webpage to outline the vision of the mission, and a strategy was crafted for acquiring impactful testimonials. This month also included a site visit with ICMA Cohort Lead Clark Henry to gain valuable insights into our region and our potential impact.

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Was engrossed in research for 32 different counties, but found motivation in this piece of art at a local shop.

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My focus was on refining the client acquisition pipeline, strategically planning for the upcoming quarter, and optimizing the current pitch to better align with potential investors and stakeholders. A dedicated amount of time was spent designing a dynamic trade show booth to enhance presence and engagement at industry events. I had the opportunity to attend my first IEDC Class, marking the beginning of my journey to expand my knowledge and skills in economic development strategies. Between that class and the Resources Training in D.C., my vision for the impact this program will have on NC was transforming.

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I organized a fun "International Night" fundraising event at my kids' school, where attendees could choose a country to represent and bring a cultural dish. Naturally, with my family's immigration to America and in honor of the recent passing of my Oma, my sons were dressed as little Dutch boys. & Yes, those are wooden shoe-slippers.

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Wrapping up the two-month whirlwind tour of conferences, planning sessions, infrastructure research, and relationship-building meetings, I connected with several support organizations for underserved businesses. Through these connections a partnership with motivated local economic developers in a designated "Hub Zone" was established. My main focus this month was pinpointing key stakeholders and organizing their brand strategies for future planning. The strategy, design, and content for the Shellfish Loan Fund Marketing Packet was released.

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I dove into a series of conferences, attending the ECU Blue Economy Summit and the Aquaculture Conference. At these events, I conducted fieldwork for the shellfish loan program, uncovering new agricultural markets in need of similar funding for equipment and expansion. During this time potential partners were identified and key data for the project was gathered. Work began on digital brand assets, updating existing designs to align with their newly established official brand.

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In the first month of the program, we came together in Portland with the opportunity to meet in person. During this event, we received detailed information about the program, learned about available resources, and were given recommendations on how to make the most of it within our communities.

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To kick things off, we held several brand strategy sessions with leaders, pinpointed ERC stakeholders for potential collaboration, locked in the next 90-day work plan, and, of course, did a little research to figure out exactly what I had just gotten myself into.