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Category: Economic Development Council

Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County’s Economic Development Council Launches County-Wide Strategic Plan for Sustainable Growth

Posted on by Melissa Brown

The Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County (CBICC) Economic Development Council met on November 29, 2023, to mark the initiation of a comprehensive county-wide strategic plan aimed at fostering sustainable economic development.

The meeting, hosted by Greg Scott, President and CEO of CBICC, saw the active participation including breakout sessions and feedback from over 35 key stakeholders including business leaders, elected officials, regional economic development partners, and township officials signaling a collaborative effort towards shaping the future of Centre County.

Greg, in his opening remarks, expressed enthusiasm about the commencement of the strategic planning process. “This meeting kicks off the development of a county-wide economic development strategic plan. The plan will be actionable and results-oriented so we can hold ourselves accountable.” Greg Scott said during the introductions.

Rick Siger, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (PA DCED), presented an overview of the State’s Economic Development Strategy focusing on improving the state’s speed to respond to business, identifying regional opportunities, supporting innovation, and workforce development. 

Camoin and Associates, the economic development consulting firm who is partnering in the development of Centre County’s economic development plan, delivered a comprehensive presentation to the council outlining the structure of the upcoming project.  Camoin facilitated the breakout sessions allowing council members to actively contribute to defining goals, identifying regional economic needs and challenges. 

Lindsay Johnson of Camoin Associates expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Centre County, stating, ” We are thrilled to get started on the Economic Development Strategic Plan for Centre County. This will be a great opportunity to work across sectors and think innovatively about the county’s future as a great place to live and work. The council’s energy, engagement, and collaborative spirit will all be assets moving forward.”

CBICC and Camoin will be conducting stakeholder meetings, roundtables, and interviews early in 2024 with the final deliverable expected in August 2024.  The CBICC Economic Development Council’s commitment to fostering collaboration, transparency, and accountability in the strategic planning process positions Centre County for sustainable growth and prosperity. The collective efforts of the council and its partners underscore a shared vision for a vibrant and economically resilient future.

Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County Announces Economic Development Council

Posted on by Jeannine Lozier

The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC) is pleased to announce the creation of an Economic Development Council. The Council comprises business leaders, chamber members, municipality representatives, and community stakeholders. This initiative aims to harness members’ collective expertise and insights to drive economic development cohesively and synergistically.

Underpinning the Council’s endeavors is the creation of a county-wide comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS). CEDS is a place-based, regionally driven economic development planning process. Further, CEDS provides a framework for strategic infrastructure development, community revitalization, workforce needs, and enhancing Centre County’s competitiveness while improving the quality of life for our shared community.

“The Council is not just about creating a strategic vision for Centre County. It’s about responsiveness and agility,” states Greg Scott, president & CEO, Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County. “In today’s dynamic business environment, the ability to seize opportunities and quickly address challenges is paramount. By implementing a CEDS, we are paving the way for a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economic future for Centre County.”

The CEDS and the Council will play a vital role in fostering partnerships and collaboration among local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations, ensuring a unified approach toward economic development. This cooperative effort allows us to prioritize key sectors and industries that have the potential to thrive in Centre County, thereby attracting new investors that are a good fit for the region.

The creation of the Economic Development Council marks an important milestone for the Chamber, cementing our commitment to working in partnership with stakeholders across the County to foster a prosperous future.

To learn more about the Chamber, Economic Development, or the Council, please visit www.cbicc.org.

Economic Development Infographic
Infographic Courtsey California Association for Local Economic Development

Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County Appoints Todd Dolbin as Vice President of Economic Development

Posted on by Chamber of Business & Industry Centre County

The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County proudly announces the appointment of Todd Dolbin as its new Vice President of Economic Development. As a Centre County native, Dolbin brings with him 18 years of experience in economic and workforce development, international business expansion, and community development.

“Appointing Todd underscores the Chamber’s dedication to fostering smart, sustainable growth for Centre County. Todd’s extensive experience and deep local roots will be invaluable in enhancing the region’s economic vitality,” says Greg Scott, President & CEO of the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County.

Dolbin previously served as the Deputy Director for Baltimore County’s Department of Economic and Workforce Development. He managed performance operations and executed the County’s economic development, workforce development, and tourism divisions. He also held leadership positions in the Baltimore City Government, directing tax incentive programs and Foreign Trade Zones.

“I am honored to return home and join the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with local businesses and community leaders to stimulate economic growth, generate jobs, and maintain a thriving business community,” Dolbin said.
In his new role, Dolbin will spearhead the establishment of an economic development council, oversee the development of a county-based economic strategic plan, and oversee business engagement, workforce development, international business expansion, and community development initiatives for the Chamber.

After graduating from Penn State, Dolbin spent two years teaching English in Kanazawa, Japan. Upon his return to the United States, he served as an International Business Consultant at Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center, leading trade missions to Australia, Ukraine, and Argentina.

Dolbin earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and International Business, minors in Economics and International Studies from Penn State, an MBA from Towson University, and a Certified Global Business Professional certificate. He is an avid skier and outdoor enthusiast, enjoying live music, kayaking, camping, and hiking.

Todd and his wife, Emily, both Centre County natives and State College Area High School graduates, are relocating with their two young daughters from Towson, MD, to State College. Todd began his tenure with the Chamber on May 15, 2023.  
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For more information about the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County and its commitment to economic development, please visit our website at www.cbicc.org.