Trade & Industry Development Magazine

It is always fun to receive recognition.  Whether it’s a pat on the back from a peer for a job well done, or keys to the executive wash room, we all appreciate being recognized for our efforts.  With this year’s edition of the Corporate Investment & Community Impact (CiCi) Awards, we are honored to be the ones to step up and say “Congratulations.”   In this issue, we are recognizing companies and communities in two distinct categories:  15 Corporate Investment Awards and 15 Community Impact Awards. As you will see, the projects highlighted here represent amazing numbers.  But the real story is beyond the numbers.  It is within the companies, communities, regions and states that made these deals possible.  Their stories, and more importantly, their futures, are what we are recognizing with this 2nd edition of the CiCi Awards.   Along with our awards, we dedicated this issue to the efforts of the corporate real estate executive.  You’ll find leading-edge articles designed to enhance your...

Driven by advances in technology and economic demand, focus on the world of “bio” has never been greater.  Emphasis has been placed in several “fields” of bio:  BioMed (enhancements to medicine); BioTech (new technologies from the life sciences); BioEnergy (alternative fuels solutions); & BioAg (improved crop development); to name a few.  Each one, on their own, offers possibilities for augmented lifestyles.  Combined, these fields present opportunities for a profoundly improved human existence.   It is no wonder then, that regions worldwide have created programs to enhance their role in the emerging bio experience.  In this issue, we explore those initiatives being offered, as well as the site selection parameters facing executives in these fields.    For even more information, don’t miss the area “Spotlights” (Canada, Virginia, Missouri, and Wisconsin) showcasing additional programs and initiatives designed to improve your endeavors.

With advances in technology, manufacturing productivity has increased with less dependence on workers.  This issue of T&ID explores the intricate balance between workers and technology, all with an eye toward the proper model for expanding your business.   In order to compete on a global stage, companies have sought to achieve optimal performance through streamlined processes and enhanced technology.  Some companies have found this through automation.  Others have found it through clustering.  As explored in our “Special Report” column, the plastics industry has benefited from the grouping of industry professionals and resources in geographical areas, thereby pooling resources, technology and workers.   The “Feature” articles cover the intricacies of business expansion for both the plastics and metals industry providing a blueprint from which to work.  Our state “Spotlights,” provided by Texas, Mississippi, Kentucky, and Michigan present numerous programs designed to enhance your...

According to NAM, U.S. manufacturing accounts for nearly two-thirds of industrial research and development, three-fourths of U.S. exports, and supports more that 20 million high paying jobs. Yet with all this success, distinct challenges face manufacturers in the U.S, including rising production costs and foreign competition. In this issue we explore the intricate balance of growth, site selection and expansion for North American manufacturers, and the resources and options available.   The “Feature” articles provide an excellent overview of the what, where and how with regard to site selection, as well as strategies necessary for a successful site location.   Included in this issue is a report on Foreign-Trade Zones, and the benefits available for manufacturers operating in FTZs. Accompanying this article is an insert detailing the location of the functioning FTZs in the U.S.   For even more information, look to the area“Spotlights” (Tennessee, New Mexico, Arkansas and Kansas) showcasing...