After living in Arizona for more than 20 years and working in the economic development profession for most of that time, I am acutely aware how difficult it is to compete for new investment from growing companies.

Economic development has changed dramatically in the last two decades, and Arizona faces many challenges when competing on a national and international stage. The state economic development toolbox needs to be modernized with programs like tax increment financing (TIF), refundable tax credits and increased job training resources if we want to win a larger percentage of the deals. Current programs are limiting and narrowly focused, making it difficult to compete across all industries.

Though the constraints can sometimes be overwhelming, communities in Arizona are finding ways to perform at a high level and maximize the limited resources available to support the growth and attraction of business and industry.

Several big “wins” have been announced just in the last few months, from Caterpillar in Tucson to Iris International in Surprise. These projects, and many others, were successful because of cooperation between local, regional, state and private partners and the ability to use current economic development programs.

The economic development industry will continue to shine a light on our “wins” during the Arizona Association for Economic Development Policy Impact Dinner at the Arizona Science Center on Tuesday, January 17, 2017.

We will celebrate effective policies, best practices and champions of economic development in an evening that promises to be eventful with progressive dinner and dessert stations, legislative awards program, silent auction featuring items made in Arizona, and poster presentations showcasing how communities and companies from all corners of the State have positively benefited from economic policy in Arizona. Sponsorships are available.