Prescott is entering exciting new times in economic development, particularly in the area of high technology jobs for our young people. The city has retained James Robb as a consultant for economic development efforts in this area of focus.
Robb is an experienced senior executive and business development professional, and dealmaker who has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for organizations over the last 30 years, and is connected to senior executives across private equity, venture capital and over a dozen industries.
In his role with Prescott, Robb is focused on developing a regional cybersecurity presence, including scheduling a cybersecurity conference, and working with investors in conjunction with our institutes of higher learning, such as ERAU, Yavapai College, Prescott College and NAU, to bring talent and resources to the area.
Through Robb’s efforts, Prescott secured the AZ Tech CEO Summit, which took place August 14-16. This event brought more than 100 key decision-makers to the area for three days to experience all that Prescott has to offer in terms of higher education, lifestyle and workforce. Robb has an additional CEO conference scheduled for September, and plans to host these types of events four times per year. Aside from the immediate economic impact of having these conferences, the long-term goal is to entice some attendees and others who come to the area to open satellite operations in Prescott, taking advantage of these amenities that our city has to offer. Prescott has all of the assets to attract high-tech satellite operations. We believe that by bringing these decision-makers to Prescott, we can make that vision a reality.
Robb is also working with key regional stakeholders to discuss development of a business incubator near the downtown. Business incubators are often sponsored by municipal entities and public institutions such as colleges and universities. Their goal is to help create and grow young businesses by providing them with necessary support and financial and technical services. All four of the locally based institutes of higher learning have expressed interest in helping with this project, as has APS and other stakeholders. We can all agree that we need to provide opportunities like this for our students and young entrepreneurs.
In addition to Robb’s efforts, the city continues to work with a variety of businesses that intend to move into Prescott or expand their presence here. Our variety of manufacturing facilities such as one of our newest, Vinyl Visions, create sustainable jobs for our citizens. Retail and food service remain an important factor in Prescott’s economic health. In August, Wildflower Bread Company broke ground on a brand-new flagship store on Highway 69 near the mall entrance. They expect to be open in January. In late 2016, the City Council employed Buxton Company to provide consumer research data to help us attract businesses and inform our existing businesses on who is spending money in Prescott and where they come from. This information can help us target specific businesses and customers that are a good fit with Prescott.
It’s clear our city is on the move in high technology and business development. This is indeed an exciting time for Prescott! QCBN
By Harry Oberg
Harry Oberg is the mayor of Prescott.
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