May/June 2026 issue
on the cover
Changes in AI skills | From the boardroom to the manufacturing floor, navigating the evolution of the workforce in the field of artificial intelligence requires a holistic perspective.
Features
Business Facilities 2026 EDO Awards | This annual recognition focuses on innovation and a wide range of initiatives that impact economic development and community growth.
Role of innovation hub | From emerging technology corridors to established centers, here are some regions that are building innovative ecosystems to help your business expand and compete.
Site identification technology | Once you define the ideal footprint for your new facility, site searches occur at ground level.
Texas Governor’s Report | Governor Greg Abbott discusses strategies to diversify the Lone Star State’s already strong business environment.
special report
Custom human resources, competitiveness | Employee training comes in many forms, giving businesses access to the specific skills they need now and in the future.
drive the message Automakers and suppliers are finding ideal locations as communities redevelop assets to meet industry needs.
From port to profit | Ports and foreign trade zones support today’s import and export activities amid economic and political uncertainty.
Alabama Profile | A wide range of industries and diversification into high-tech sectors characterize the current business environment.
Delaware Profile | First states offer low costs of doing business and strong legal, governance, and corporate tax regulations.
Massachusetts Profile | From life sciences to AI, Baystate makes innovation-driven investments, commercializes research and develops high-value talent.
Nevada Profile | While the Silver State has a mining heritage, it also offers promising locations for technology, manufacturing, and professional services.
Wisconsin Profile | In the Badger State, companies from traditional to emerging industries find strong research assets, aligned capital, and a collaborative ecosystem.
Virginia Profile | A strong talent pipeline and infrastructure assets are key to the Commonwealth’s rapid growth in innovative industries.
business report
Texas: Expanding Horizons | The Lone Star State continues to attract a wide range of investments, including next-generation industries.
Arkansas: Natural State Surge | Investments in technology, aviation, and manufacturing are fueling expansion across the Natural State.
Florida: Diversified Growth | The Sunshine State is gaining new industries while supporting legacy sectors with a solid business environment.
North Carolina: Build Bold | With a long-term strategy for industrial growth, the Tar Heel State continues to attract and retain emerging and traditional industries.
Mexico: Towards the next era | A plan focused on long-term economic growth Mexico is at the heart of the country’s business attraction strategy.
Department
why? Utah: With Mr. Jefferson Moss of the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity |A talent pipeline, infrastructure and investments in the Energy Decade are creating a lasting ecosystem in the Beehive State.
The Last Word: Resources for the Future with Vera Spiller | The race to establish robust critical mineral supply chains continues. A new report examines the current situation.
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first word
reach out to the future
TTechnology is impacting virtually every aspect of modern life. From the smartphones we check early in the day to the sophisticated manufacturing processes used by businesses around the world, technology continues to evolve, and it seems like it’s only going to get faster. New data centers, AI workplace tools, and workplace robotics bring opportunities and challenges.
This issue’s “AI Skills Shift” article explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to fit into worker job descriptions and how companies can provide a framework for employee development in this area. Meanwhile, innovation hubs are no longer limited to a focus on technology. Companies looking for locations with growing or established ecosystems to support their industries can consider sector-specific hubs where they are building or strengthening their foundation. Read this article to learn more about the role of innovation hubs.
Still, the essence of site selection is finding a suitable parcel of land or existing facility for a company’s new or expanding business. “The Art Of Site Identification” takes a look at that process from the ground up. Economic development organizations (EDOs) support many site selection teams during exploration, provide location tours, identify potential incentives, and guide employee training opportunities. of business facilities This edition of the 2026 EDO Awards recognizes innovative and effective efforts by economic development teams. These awards are a showcase of entries received earlier this year and represent some of the work EDO does every day to support business growth in our community.
