economic development

The other digital divide

Jobs using technology are more common in some parts of the country than in others, according to a recent study. The divide is leading to a widening wage and skills gap.

Lessons from the metaverse

Even if early supporters are backing away from the immersive platform, states should keep thinking about new ways to provide services.

Every state sees tech workforce gains, report says

Net employment in tech grew by 3.2% last year, with more than 9 million people now employed in the sector across technical and non-technical roles, according to new CompTIA research.

How data insights can solve geographic inequity, build regional economies

The Commerce Department’s Regional Economic Research Initiative will provide accessible data tools, visualizations and expert services help to federal, state, local and tribal decision-makers better understand what kind of projects will promote growth.

Gambling is a tech industry. Are Nevada regulators up for the challenge?

Nevada, the self-professed regulatory ‘gold standard,’ is slow to enact tech advancements common in other states.

City building a talent pipeline for a quantum-enabled workforce

The Gig City Goes Quantum initiative is Chattanooga’s plan for student education, workforce preparation and business support to accelerate the local commercialization of quantum technologies.

States debate whether to restrict—or invite—crypto mining

Cryptocurrency mining is coming under fire as some officials raise concerns over its effect on climate goals. But others argue cryptocurrency's potential for economic development should not be overlooked.

We’re back! Our grand return to live events

GCN and Route Fifty will hit the road with a new free event series to explore how cities across the country are building their future today.

One state’s grant management breakthrough

With the One Stop portal, organizations in Massachusetts can apply for economic development grants across three agencies, and grant administrators can more easily manage programs and ensure regional equity.

Feds seek input on how to create semiconductor hubs

The Commerce Department wants stakeholders’ “best ideas” for new research and manufacturing hubs for computer chips that could transform communities nationwide.

Innovation thrives when governments embrace next-gen public-private partnerships

By rethinking how sectors collaborate and encouraging long-term institutional relationships, communities can get the most out of technology projects, one expert said.

Data-based decision-making is flawed when the data is flawed

There are many reasons the quality of state and local data can be poor. Using that information can lead to unfortunate results.

Microsoft to expand program that grows economic development in rural areas

The tech giant is set to expand TechSpark to all 50 states as it looks to grow place-based economic development opportunities through digital skills training.

The worker shortage is real. Could tech help governors close gaps?

Business leaders pointed to high-tech job training and tools like artificial intelligence as possible solutions to the historic shortage of workers.

Energy Department wants national labs to drive regional innovation

DOE is looking for ideas on how regional ecosystems could leverage a nearby national lab to power innovation and economic prosperity.

State eyes sports betting kiosks

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission wants to know if and how it can safely and profitably introduce sports betting machines at retailers.

The places seeing growth in the semiconductor sector so far

With a major federal push underway to boost production of microchips in the U.S., a trade group for the industry highlights over 40 major projects nationwide.