The city of Lima, Ohio has a long industrial legacy. In the 1920s, Lima thrived with strong demand for its steel. The city was also a hub of innovation, producing most notably the “Lima A-1,” which became the prototype for the modern steam locomotive. By 1930, the city was home to an estimated 93 industrial companies that collectively employed more than 8,000 local residents. Read More

The influx of new residents, accompanied by a growing number of restaurants, coffee shops, retail outlets, and other amenities to serve them, has transformed many urban neighborhoods over the past decade. A walk through any low-income, inner city neighborhood, however, often reveals a different reality. While many of these neighborhoods have also grown in population, the mix and number of shops serving local consumers seem to differ from other parts of the city. Read More

As America’s workforce ages, new industries in need of cutting-edge skills are growing rapidly. Businesses are primed for hiring and creating new jobs, yet many workers find themselves in need of training and education to take advantage of these emerging opportunities. However, employer demand for skilled labor has started to align with the workforce’s appetite for training in ways that produce mutually beneficial outcomes. Read More

In February ICIC and Massachusetts 6^th District Congressman Seth Moulton announced a partnership to strengthen the small business ecosystem in his district’s seven cities. Moulton’s North Shore district is the first in the nation to offer ICIC’s Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) program as part of a region-wide strategy to stimulate business growth and job creation. Read More

Last month, following the announcement of the latest cohort of companies selected for Techstars Seattle, Managing Director Chris DeVore penned a very public plea for help. In a blog post entitled “Techstars Seattle Diversity Update: Failing, Frustrated + Asking for Help,” DeVore writes: “While I am proud and excited about ... Read More