## A Collaborative Approach to Economic Growth
The Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County (CBICC) has taken a momentous step forward. After over a year of diligent work with local leaders, businesses, and the Penn State administration, they have unveiled a strategic economic plan. This plan is designed to both sustain and bolster the prosperity of Centre County, its myriad jurisdictions, and indeed the broader region.
### A Vision Unveiled
On the 9th of October, the CBICC proudly presented Centre County’s Economic Development Strategic Plan. The event took place at the Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center, drawing a significant crowd of stakeholders and interested parties.
Greg Scott, CBICC’s president and CEO, remarked on the robust partnership with Penn State: “The university’s involvement has been pivotal to our success, and we foresee tremendous opportunities for growth.” This collaboration has ensured that the plan mirrors Penn State’s profound commitment to economic development in the locale.
### Key Challenges and Strategic Response
This well-thought-out plan arises from several challenges faced over recent years. There is a notable need to counter issues such as population decline, workforce instability, and infrastructure inadequacies. Addressing these concerns is central to the county’s strategy.
Penn State’s President, Neeli Bendapudi, highlighted the university’s mission, “We stand as coalition-builders and bridge-builders, ready to extend our skills towards impactful solutions right here in Centre County.”
### The Plan’s Ambitious Goals
The strategic plan has set forth some clear objectives:
– **Business Retention and Expansion:** Strengthening existing enterprises and fostering new growth.
– **Investment in Emerging Industries:** Laying the groundwork for future economic sectors.
– **Workforce and Education Development:** Enhancing skill sets to meet market demands.
– **Built and Natural Environments:** Balancing development with environmental preservation.
### Tying the Threads Together
Penn State’s integration into this plan is seamless. Neeli Bendapudi aligns the university’s strategic goals with those of the CBICC plan. She envisions Penn State’s land-grant mission of teaching, research, and service as vital. It’s this mission that will yield a positive and lasting impact not only in Centre County but well beyond its borders.
### An Era of Partnerships
Present at the unveiling were several key figures. Amongst them, Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi, Mark Higgins, chair of the Centre County Board of Commissioners, and Ben Kirshner, chief transformation and opportunity officer for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Luke Bernstein from the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry echoed the sentiment of collaboration and progress. Meanwhile, Mike Stefan, Penn State’s vice president for Government and Community Relations, expressed optimism: “This new plan marks a pivotal moment for Centre County’s future. Collaborative projects with Penn State and other state leaders will chart a sustainable progress path.”
For further exploration of this transformative plan, visit their [official website](https://centrecountyforward.com).
