EconomicLee Speaking
A Message from the Lee County Economic Development Office

Amy McQuagge
2015 was a great year for economic development and growth in Lee County. The proof is in a few recent headlines:
 
  • Manpower Group ranked Lee County No. 1 for the strongest job prospects in 2016
  • Bloomberg Business ranked Lee County No. 4 for most economic growth in 2016
  • Governing.com ranked Lee County No. 10 among the top counties where people are moving
 
This year the Lee County Economic Development Office (EDO) traveled over 16,000 miles on sales missions, closed multiple relocation and expansion projects - one of which is profiled in this newsletter, launched a new marketing campaign, spearheaded several new economic development initiatives, and helped the Horizon Foundation set a new fundraising record. All of these efforts have created the perfect springboard for 2016.
 
To capitalize on this position, our marketing efforts will continue to focus on telling Lee County's story through channels such as a redesigned and evolving website, increased social media presence, earned media visits and direct contact with site selection consultants and C-level executives. Utilizing these tools, along with the support of the Horizon Council, Horizon Foundation and Industrial Development Authority, we will continue to spread the word that Lee County is
#WhereBusinessIsTrending.
 
In this issue of EconomicLEE Speaking you'll read about the positive national and international press coverage Lee County is receiving, "LEARN" about a new collaborative partnership helping Southwest Florida's small- and medium-sized businesses succeed, and get a look at 2016 Horizon Council highlights.
 
With the holiday season upon us, the EDO staff would like to wish you, your employees and families a very happy holiday and a prosperous New Year.
 
Enjoy,

Amy McQuagge
Marketing, Sales and Communications Coordinator, Lee County Economic Development Office
National and International Media Continue to Discover Why Lee County is #WhereBusinessisTrending
Lee County: A Popular German Vacation Haven AND a Great Business Destination 
Lee County_ Popular German Vacation Haven _ Great Business Destination
German journalists on their tour of Gartner
In November, to capitalize on the strong appeal of Lee County to the international market, the EDO hosted four German reporters. Click here to learn more about this important press trip. 
Nationally Known Author and Manufacturing Journalist Visits Lee County's Booming Manufacturing Sector
Media Continue to Discover Why Lee County is _WhereBusinessIsTrending
Journalist Michelle Nash-Hoff tours Shaw Development
In October, author and manufacturing journalist, Michelle Nash-Hoff, visited Lee County to learn more about Lee County's thriving manufacturing industry. Click here to learn more about her visit and read her articles. 
EDO At Work_ LEARN SWFL
On 12/8 LEARN members introduced the new initiative to potential partners
Click here to learn more about the Lee Entrepreneurs' Assistance Resource Network (LEARN), which is dedicated to supporting small and medium sized businesses by promoting their establishment, retention and expansion in Southwest Florida. 
Rachel Busch and Sarah Newcomb Join the EDO  
Rachel Busch and Sarah Newcomb Join the EDO
Rachel Busch, Strategic Projects Manager (left) and Sarah Newcomb, Administrative Specialist (right)
Rachel Busch, Strategic Projects Manager and Sarah Newcomb have joined the EDO team. Click here to learn more about our latest staffing additions.
Aerospace Parts Manufacturer, ACI, Chooses to Expand in Lee County
Aerospace Parts Manufacturer_ ACI Chooses to Expanded in Lee County
In September, Advanced Components International (ACI) LLC, a manufacturer of oil reservoirs for commercial aircraft, announced major plans for expansion in Lee County. Click here to learn more about the company's $11.6 million investment. 
Dr. Lawrence Antonucci, COO of Lee Memorial Health System 
Gail Markham, Founding Partner of Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company
Click here to learn more about the 2016 executive boards members.
Upcoming Business Events 
Click on "Small Business Week" below for details.
Small Business Week
Save the Date
Horizon Council Kicks Off New Year with Notable Speakers
Horizon Council to Host Notable Speakers to Kickoff New Year
Diana Kander, Innovation Coach, Entrepreneur and Author
Horizon Council to Host Notable Speakers to Kickoff New Year
Dr. Jeff Allbritten, President of Florida SouthWestern State College
An "innovation coach" and New York Times best-selling author and the President of Florida SouthWestern State College will be keynote speakers at the January and February Horizon Council General Membership Meetings. Click here to learn more. 
Florida SouthWestern State College Internship Programs Connect Students with Businesses
Florida Southwestern State College_ Interns Partner with Business Community
Click here to learn more.
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