Using a public-private partnership-based strategy, the Lehigh Valley rebuilt its economy into one that today is diversified, consistently ranked among the top mid-sized regions for economic development, and is among the Top 15% of manufacturing markets nationwide. The Lehigh Valley has also rejuvenated its brand to reflect the opportunity that exists for all, businesses and people, looking for a place to put down roots and thrive. 

Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC) was invited to present that story at the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives annual conference on July 24 in Philadelphia. The association serves more than 9,000 leaders from 1,300 chambers of commerce, including the Lehigh Valley.

Karianne Gelinas, LVEDC’s Vice President of Regional Partnerships and Talent Strategies, shared how it is critical for leaders to identify their community’s strengths and to look for opportunities to change the narrative, by inviting broad participation and by sharing accurate and compelling stories and data.

Lehigh Valley focused on its location – within a day’s drive of one-third of the U.S. population – and a strong higher and technical education network to develop talent.

Gelinas shared how LVEDC and its partners, including the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, use data and a diversity of successful businesses, large and small and including global brands, to market the region for business growth. And how LVEDC works to attract and develop talent for employers, with partners such as the Lehigh Valley Inter-Regional Networking and Connecting Consortium (LINC).

The Lehigh Valley traces its economic renaissance to a regional coalition of public and private partners that began 30 years ago, she said. That coalition includes leaders from large and small employers in a variety of industries; education; health care; government; labor; workforce development; and others.

Today, the Lehigh Valley is at highs in Gross Domestic Product ($55.7 billion); employment (341,000); and median household income ($81,000).

The population has grown to more than 708,000 and is drawing young adults, a key demographic for employers seeking talent. That growth is driven by the Lehigh Valley’s quality of life.

Gelinas explained how the Lehigh Valley unveiled a new branding initiative a few years ago, with Discover Lehigh Valley®, to market the region with a universal logo. LVEDC partners with Discover Lehigh Valley® to share the story of the Lehigh Valley with the broadest possible audience so that the region can continue to be a magnet for business and people.