Economic Development Committee

Thanks to everyone who attended “Harnessing Regional Assets to Promote Shared Opportunities for Growth” on Thursday, February 29, 2024! The program explored the Governor’s most recent budget proposal, plans to harness the power of federal dollars, and the role that anchor institutions like universities, government and quasi-governmental institutions, and nonprofits play in ensuring that economic development opportunities benefit the people of southwestern PA as a whole. Follow up information will be available soon.

Committee Overview

The Economic Development Committee is devoted to examining public issues that impact economic growth and development in Southwestern Pennsylvania. This work spans across several different disciplines, including but not limited to the examination of emerging industries and technology, as well as the development of a public climate that supports both small business development and provides a favorable environment for global companies to take root. 

Economic Development Committee chair Richard Taylor

Membership

The Economic Development Policy Committee is chaired by:

  • The Honorable Chip Abramovic, Commissioner, Venango County
  • Mr. Richard Taylor, CEO, Imbue Technology Solutions, Inc.

The Institute's Economic Development Committee is currently being reconstituted. If you have an interest in serving on the committee, please contact Briana Mihok at 412-624-7792 or bnd2@pitt.edu.

Summary of Current Initiatives

Please see the information related to "Harnessing Regional Assets to Promote Shared Opportunities for Growth" above.

Ongoing and/or Completed Projects

Small Business Development 

In January 2017, the Economic Development committee discussed how best to develop and support small businesses, especially in distressed communities. During the discussion, the committee deliberated on the challenges surrounding workforce development for individuals with a criminal record, substance abuse disorder, and/or lack of marketable skills. The committee also addressed macro-level barriers, such as access to broadband or transportation systems. In response, IOP developed a comprehensive list of small business assistance programs at the federal, state, and local levels.

Shale Gas

Between 2011 and 2013, the Economic Development and Environment Policy Committees devoted their efforts to the work of the Shale Gas Roundtable. The Roundtable was comprised of high-level, diverse membership including 26 individuals from relevant, interested constituencies throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania. In August 2013, two years of study and dialogue culminated in the release of a report setting forth recommendations for the improvement of unconventional oil and gas development in Pennsylvania, including development in the Marcellus and Utica shale formations. The recommendations promote increased research, modernization of state regulations, and the building of relationships across sectors to support environmental protection, quality of life, and economic development goals for the region. Click here to learn more. 

Publications

The following publications issued by the Institute are related to the focus areas of the Economic Development Committee: