St. Louis County Economic Council Receives Honorable Mention at Economic Development Conference
Contact: Erin Way, Media Relations
202.942.9474
eway@iedconline.org
St. Louis, MO-based Organization Recognized for Globalization Program
Acknowledging the St. Louis County Economic Council (SLCEC) for its globalization efforts, the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) recognized the St. Louis, Missouri-based organization with an honorable mention at IEDC's Annual Conference, October 4-7 in Reno, NV. SLCEC received the recognition on behalf of the Midwest China Hub Commission.
"Furthering economic development is rarely a simple task in the best of times, and advancing the cause in the midst of a global financial crisis is nothing less than arduous," said Ian Bromley, IEDC chair. "As the consequences of the widespread economic turmoil have taken hold, we have seen our members become even more ardent proponents of economic development, flying in the face of one of the most challenging economic environments we have experienced in our careers. We tip our hats to the St. Louis County Economic Council for its superior work during these difficult times."
"The Midwest China Hub Commission is a partnership effort, and we are extremely grateful for the unyielding support we continually receive from the St. Louis County Economic Council," said Commission Chairman Mike Jones. "The Economic Council's strong commitment to our mission, makes us one step closer to achieving our ultimate goal: making St. Louis a cargo hub to China," Jones said.
Competing in the category of Responding to Globalization by organizations serving areas with populations exceeding 200,000, SLCEC made a notable impression with the Midwest-China Hub Commission. Since 2007, SLCEC--in cooperation with St. Louis City and St. Louis County officials--and entrepreneurs collaborated to establish an economic partnership with China. These efforts resulted in the creation of the Midwest-China Hub Commission on January 26, 2009. Dubbed "The Big Idea," the commission proposes the St. Louis region become China's primary gateway into the American Heartland through dedicated cargo flights connecting St. Louis with China. This will improve St. Louis and the Midwest, as well as its businesses' ability to cooperate and compete globally. Considering the progress made since its inception, the level of bi-partisan and financial support received, and the amount of attention garnered both domestically and internationally, the Midwest-China Hub Commission is a project that is leading the way in formulating St. Louis and the region's response to global challenges in the 21st century.
About The International Economic Development Council (IEDC)
Headquartered in Washington, D.C., IEDC's mission is to provide leadership and excellence in economic development for communities, members and partners. IEDC's professional economic development awards annually recognize excellence in the economic development profession.
About St. Louis County Economic Council
SLCEC is a not-for-profit economic development organization responsible for creating high-quality business and employment opportunities for long-term diversified growth throughout St. Louis County and region. SLCEC oversees several local and regional economic development programs including World Trade Center Saint Louis, various loan programs, small business incubators, business development and retention services, and community redevelopment.
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