WEDA recognizes 2023 Economic Development Week

Governor to sign state proclamation 3:30 May 4

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Economic Development Association (WEDA) is celebrating the work of Wyoming’s professional economic developers and partners to create more viable and livable communities by recognizing Economic Development Week. During May 8 – 12, communities across the state will be commemorating the international event by highlighting their stories of success and people who help make an impact.

“The ongoing partnerships, ingenuity and commitment to the future are a critical component to driving economic growth in Wyoming and shaping a vision of the future,” said Sara DiRienzo, executive director of the WEDA. “It’s important to pause to recognize the work of economic developers and our communities who are carrying out the work for the Cowboy State to remain prosperous and competitive.”

Created in 2016 by International Economic Development Council, the largest international professional trade association for economic developers, Economic Development Week aims to increase awareness for local programs that create jobs, advance career development opportunities, and improve the quality of life in communities everywhere.

Wyoming’s economic development community is robust – comprised of economic development organizations, local chambers, Main Street projects, cities, towns, counties, community colleges and universities, lawmakers, state and local government, as well as grassroots community partners and other organizations. Together, these partners develop and drive Wyoming’s economy forward through top industries such as energy, agriculture and recreation and tourism.

Economic development is a planful process that involves many players and steps to make businesses grow and Wyoming a place people want to live and work.

“In every community – a city like Casper or a small town like Upton – economic development is happening,” said Phil Christopherson, President of WEDA. “Mind you – it doesn’t just ‘happen’ –it takes a plan, people with know-how and a lot of work. Economic development requires continuous nurturing by way of capacity and resources. In short – even when the project is done, economic development is not. That’s why celebrating people who know this process and are dedicated to it is good for Wyoming.”

In recognition of the work Wyoming does to foster thriving communities, Gov. Mark Gordon is set to proclaim May 8-12 as Wyoming Economic Development Week with a formal signing to take place in the Governor’s Ceremonial Conference Room at 3:30 p.m. May 4. The event is open to the public - RSVP online.

Wyoming Economic Development Association (WEDA) is a statewide nonprofit professional association representing over 200 economic development members and organizations in nearly all counties across the state. WEDA’s goals are to provide leadership, advocacy and education to foster economic growth and resiliency in the Cowboy State.

MEDIA CONTACT: Sara DiRienzo, WEDA Executive Director - sdirienzo@thealignteam.org | (307) 772-9117