The Laramie Chamber Business Alliance Strategically Attracts Companies for Sustainable Growth

The Laramie Chamber Business Alliance is the result of a merger between the Chamber of Commerce with the local economic development office. It stands out as a bright spot in Wyoming because of its deliberate efforts to bring new companies to the region.

“A lot of EDCs want to accept anything that comes in the door, but we’ve tried to be strategic about who we bring into town,” says Brad Enzi, CEO and President of LCBA.

This means focusing on a few key industries that match the current skills of residents and the region's future economic goals.

If you aren’t familiar with Laramie, the fourth largest city in the state and home to the University of Wyoming, discover what sets it apart. See why the entire Southeast region is poised for growth.

Laramie Will be a Leader in Skilled Manufacturing and Innovation

One of the benefits of operating as both a Chamber of Commerce and EDC is that the LBCA can work as a unit toward a single vision. As the EDC attracts new businesses, it targets specific industries that are designed to set Laramie up for success.

“When we look at things we want to be good at, we tend to be laser-focused,” says Enzi. “We’re entering the high-tech computing, medical high-tech manufacturing, and now specialty foods.”  

Focusing on specific industries allows the LBCA to develop meaningful outreach efforts that appeal to companies in these niches. Rather than being something for everyone, the LBCA promotes Laramie as a perfect fit for certain endeavors. Companies that move to the region can feel confident in their hiring abilities and have access to land and utilities they need. These companies also have room to grow. 

The Success of These Attraction Efforts Speaks for Itself

Laramie is already benefiting from the LBCA’s efforts to recruit mindfully and follow strategic plans for business attraction. Multiple businesses have announced their plans to move to the area or expand their operations in Laramie.

First, Safran Passenger Innovations LLC (SPI) has applied for a $10 million grant and a $5 million loan from the City of Laramie and the Wyoming Business Council to support its expansion project. If the grant is approved, the company will add 20,000 square feet to its current 10,000-square-foot facility, creating enough space to hire 250 employees over the next five years.

“It brings software development and aerospace into the community,” says Enzi. SPI creates in-flight entertainment systems that are used by airlines all over the world.

In the specialty food space, Made4U Foods recently opened a gluten-free and allergen-free bakery in the area. Plenty Unlimited Inc., an indoor vertical farming company, started in Laramie and continues to operate its research and development locally. 

WyoTech is Expanding to Keep Up with Workforce Development 

WyoTech, Wyoming Technical Institute, has supported technical training in Laramie since 1966. However, Enzi says it has experienced exponential growth in the past decade. In 2018, there were about five instructors and a handful of students. Today it has 1,200 students and 240 employees.

The Wyoming Business Council recently approved a $5 million loan to help WyoTech build a 137,000-square-foot facility that will create 99 jobs and expand the school’s ability to accept up to 2,000 students. The total project cost is $43 million, with WyoTech contributing nearly $33 million of its own funds.  

“The kids who go to WyoTech are top-notch,” says Enzi. “I can’t say enough great things about the technical school.”

This expansion alone creates jobs in the region, but the effects of the job training programs will make countless students employable nationally.

“If companies don’t see the workforce potential in Laramie now, they will soon,” says Brett Kahler, Executive Director of the Wyoming Economic Development Association (WEDA). “Between the University of Wyoming and WyoTech, companies in the region can hire recent graduates while upskilling their current employees. Access to training and education has never been closer.” 

The LBCA Works Well With Other Communities 

Companies considering an expansion into Wyoming should talk to the LBCA. Not only can the Alliance find what you need to do business in Laramie, but it can offer recommendations if nearby cities have better options.

“Economic development tends to be competitive, but we work closely with groups like Cheyenne LEADS and send businesses their way depending on what works, and they send businesses to us,” says Enzi. “My advice is to come out to Laramie and see if it's a good fit. If it’s not, we’ll try to help you find your place in Wyoming.” 

Meet Other Economic Development Teams Across Wyoming

Towns and cities across Wyoming are investing in economic development to make business expansion easier. Site selectors visiting this state will have an easier time finding high-potential properties and getting the information they need for their clients. Businesses that choose Wyoming will have strong teams to work with, like the LCBA, that make establishing corporate operations easier.

Get to know the members of WEDA who are committed to providing better economic development services. If you aren’t sure where to start, contact WEDA and let us help your business find its perfect Wyoming home.