Economic Development Week: WEDA Proves That Wyoming is Stronger When We Come Together

The Wyoming Economic Development Association (WEDA) is excited to celebrate Economic Development Week from May 6th to May 10th. This is a period to celebrate the value economic development brings to local communities in the form of increased employment and improved quality of life.

WEDA supports every economic development organization or corporation across the state. Its goal is to open doors, break down barriers, and provide resources to help the counties and towns of Wyoming thrive. This Economic Development Week, learn why you should join WEDA if you represent one of these local organizations. Here’s why we are stronger together.  

Communities Can Join Forces for Business Attraction

Economic developers know Wyoming is the 9th largest state by size and ranks 50th for population. Residents who have lived here for generations appreciate rural life and the vast landscapes the state is known for. However, networking is a challenge when everyone is so spread out.

“Wyoming has 19 cities and 80 towns across 23 counties,” says Brett Kahler, Executive Director of WEDA. “Some economic development associations have several employees and a lot of resources. Others are run by a single person who wears multiple hats. WEDA represents economic organizations of all sizes.”  

WEDA members can take advantage of several networking and collective lobbying opportunities throughout the year. It offers in-person conferences along with monthly virtual events. Many of these are free to attend.

“Economic development professionals do not work alone in the state of Wyoming,” says Kahler. “WEDA is here to help or connect you with other organizations that can.” 

Growth in One Community Sends Ripple Effects Through Others

Business attraction in Wyoming supports all communities, not just the county or town where the new company is located. Residents often travel from neighboring areas to work, raising the employment rate and supporting career development in surrounding areas. 

Increased employment gives residents spending money to support local small businesses, boosting retailers, restaurant owners, and other entrepreneurs throughout the county where a new business breaks ground.  

A new business also elevates the profile of Wyoming across the country, increasing the chances that other employers notice the state and relocate here as well. A major company expanding to one region can lead to new businesses and others.

By joining WEDA, you support the growth and development of Wyoming as a whole. Even if your town isn't immediately affected, your membership will pay dividends in the long run. 

You Can Have a Voice in Wyoming’s Future

The WEDA Board of Directors and staff work closely with Wyoming municipalities when setting goals and planning for the future. At the start of the year, WEDA evaluates its top priorities, target industries, and potential challenges of local associations. This goal alignment is an essential part of WEDA operations. Every action or program developed in the following months is tied back to these key concepts.  

“WEDA is valuable because each member and organization brings resources to the table,” says Kahler. “But it is powerful because all of our economic development organizations come together as a single unit.”

If you work in economic development, you can have a voice in WEDA’s goal alignment to help set its priorities. The WEDA leadership team will listen to your concerns and opportunities so your community is part of Wyoming’s future growth.

Join WEDA To Support the Economic Development of Wyoming

Economic Development Week highlights how organizations work together to support Wyoming residents. Business growth for one region benefits the others, especially when everyone’s goals are aligned. Through networking, education, and other opportunities to build connections, economic development organizations can work together while also investing in WEDA. In turn, WEDA will use its resources to represent the interests of its members at the state level.

If you aren’t part of WEDA yet, now is the time to join. We can’t wait to meet you.