Attracting and retaining business in Flint and Genesee County is a core focus for the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce. We work with our partners, including the City of Flint and Genesee County, as well as regional, state and federal partners, to ensure that we meet the needs of companies currently operating here or considering opening a business in the area.
Just last week, there was a news announcement about a regional economic development group called the Detroit Regional Partnership (DRP). The group – which consists of 15 executives from some of the largest companies in the region – is charged with marketing the 11-county region of Southeast Michigan, including Flint and Genesee County, and attracting out-of-state investment. The DRP’s work will be in addition to the economic development work that we’re doing locally every day.
Following a nationwide search, Barry Matherly has been named as the CEO of the DRP. A certified economic developer, he has 24 years of leadership experience and previously served as the chair of the International Economic Development Council, the largest economic development association in the world.
Barry has already started to make the rounds. Getting out to each of the 11 counties, meeting people and learning about the strengths and assets of each. We were pleased to have him spend some time in the Flint area last week.
As the lead economic development agency for our region, the Chamber team understands the important role that collaboration and partnerships play in our success. We need as many organizations as possible understanding what we offer, regularly thinking about us and working to amplify our efforts. So, we’re looking forward to partnering with DRP.
In the meantime, you can take pride in the fact that Flint and Genesee County is moving forward. We are experiencing a turnaround with solid fundamentals in place to attract investment and jobs, create economic vitality and improve quality of life for our residents. I’m optimistic that we will continue the region’s progress in 2019.
Happy New Year!
Tim