You've heard me talk about the increasingly important role of regional groups in economic development. I've had the pleasure of working with quite a few regions and their leadership during their formative and early years. I recently interviewed five leaders who have been through the experience of starting up (or repositioning) a regional ED group.  

What advice would they give to another region that is just starting up?

Their advice included building trust, practical tips for gaining buy-in and building a budget, the importance of setting ground rules, and interestingly, recommendations for the first programs a new region should focus on right out of the gate.

AS I SEE IT, getting a new regional EDO off on the right foot is a high-risk, high-reward proposition. Learning from those who have lived through it, and retaining a guide to help lead you through it, are worth considering. The alternative is a lot of wasted time and money, and the potential to tarnish reputations and the willingness of stakeholders to embrace regionalism for years to come.

Click to Download Advice on Regionalism, from Regional EDO Leaders