Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (Metro Denver EDC) Company Profile

Background

The Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (Metro Denver EDC) is the nation's first regional economic development entity, uniting over 70 cities, counties, and economic development agencies across the nine-county Metro Denver and Northern Colorado region. As a division of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, Metro Denver EDC's mission is to promote and support the mutual growth of the region's talent and businesses, while also recruiting new talent and businesses to foster a prosperous and elevated life.

Key Strategic Focus

Metro Denver EDC's strategic focus encompasses several core objectives:

• Corporate Attraction and Retention: Facilitating the relocation and expansion of businesses within the region.

• Workforce Development: Enhancing the skills and capabilities of the local workforce to meet evolving industry demands.

• Infrastructure Investment: Advocating for and supporting developments that bolster the region's economic framework.

• Public Policy Advocacy: Engaging in policy initiatives that foster a pro-business climate.

The organization targets a diverse range of industries, including technology, aerospace, bioscience, and advanced manufacturing, leveraging the region's central location and skilled workforce to attract and support businesses.

Financials and Funding

As a division of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, Metro Denver EDC operates as a non-profit organization. Its funding is primarily derived from investments by over 250 influential companies and collaboration with regional partners. These funds are utilized to support economic development programs, corporate attraction and retention efforts, workforce development initiatives, and infrastructure investments.

Pipeline Development

Metro Denver EDC has been instrumental in facilitating numerous business relocations and expansions within the region. Notable recent developments include:

• United Airlines Flight Training Center Expansion: In August 2023, United Airlines announced the expansion of its Flight Training Center in Denver, expected to create 240 new jobs with an average annual wage of $186,500.

• bet365 U.S. Headquarters: In September 2024, UK-based online sports betting company bet365 opened its U.S. corporate headquarters in Denver, anticipating nearly 1,000 new jobs.

• Virta Health Relocation: In October 2023, Virta Health, specializing in reversing type 2 diabetes, relocated from San Francisco to downtown Denver, contributing to the region's growing life sciences sector.

Technological Platform and Innovation

While Metro Denver EDC does not develop proprietary technologies, it plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation within the region by:

• Facilitating Industry Growth: Supporting sectors such as aerospace, bioscience, and advanced manufacturing through strategic partnerships and initiatives.

• Promoting Technological Advancements: Encouraging the adoption and development of cutting-edge technologies within the regional business community.

• Supporting Research and Development: Collaborating with academic institutions and research organizations to drive scientific progress and innovation.

Leadership Team

Metro Denver EDC is led by a team of experienced professionals:

• Raymond H. Gonzales: President of Metro Denver EDC and Executive Vice President of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. Appointed in December 2021, Gonzales brings over 24 years of experience in government administration and economic development.

• Laura Rodriguez: Director of Economic Competitiveness & Corporate Attraction. Joined in December 2021, Rodriguez has a background in state-level economic development and economics, previously serving as Managing Director for Business Investment at the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.

• Daniel Ryley: Vice President of Corporate Attraction.

• Hanna Scovill: Economist & Senior Manager of Economic Competitiveness.

• Morgan Alu: Director of International Development & Special Projects.

• Zoe Allender: Manager of Economic Development.

• Amelia Atencio: Business Development Director of Climate Resilience.

• Shaun Brog: Economic Research Associate of Economic Competitiveness.

• Alyssa Roche: Economic Research Associate of Economic Competitiveness.

• Sara Stone: Executive Assistant of Metro Denver EDC.

Leadership Changes

In December 2021, Raymond H. Gonzales was appointed as President of Metro Denver EDC and Executive Vice President of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, succeeding J. J. Ament, who transitioned to lead the Chamber. Additionally, Laura Rodriguez joined as Director of Economic Competitiveness & Corporate Attraction in December 2021, bringing extensive experience in economic development.

Competitor Profile

As a regional economic development entity, Metro Denver EDC operates in a unique space with limited direct competitors. However, other regional economic development organizations and chambers of commerce in the United States serve similar functions. Metro Denver EDC distinguishes itself through its collaborative approach, uniting over 70 cities, counties, and economic development agencies to promote regional growth. The organization's comprehensive services, including specialized data provision, site selection assistance, and advocacy, position it as a leader in regional economic development.