William B. Killingsworth Director, Division of Community Development

“We strive to create a State with distinctive communities ready to compete anywhere.” What We Do

We foster competitive communities. We partner with other entities. We become a visible resource. We build a reputation for excellence. How We Do It

Program Assumptions Communities that plan, build, and enhance their economy while being true to what make them unique are more competitive. We can help communities value those assets that makes them unique & challenge them to set realistic goals to advance their vision. Participants are committed to innovative strategies to promote community, economy, and leadership. A network of vibrant communities who share success and lessons learned from their peers can be created.

Program Objectives Competitive Florida will tie the programs and staff of the Community Development Division together through a coordinated effort to increase local economic competitiveness. Competitive Florida will foster long-term partnerships. Participating communities will develop the capacity to implement their vision by leveraging their unique gifts.

Asset-Based Economic Development Economic Advantage Tangible Assets Intangible Assets Creates sustainable economic growth and prosperity

Get to know you. Look at your strategy. Pick the path that works for you. Make a commitment. Start off with a bang. Set benchmarks. Do Something and Review Progress. Share your success with the network. Celebrate.

Six month effort to test the Competitive Florida framework City of Port St. Joe Town of White Springs City of Newberry DeSoto County Opportunity for additional communities – Spring/Summer 2014 Current Pilot Communities

Listening to and understanding the ideas and desires of the people that live in the community is key to targeting economic development opportunities that fit within their unique character. Community Conversations

Pairs state resource experts with local leadership to brainstorm opportunities to leverage or enhance existing assets. Collect data on each asset and brainstorm past successes, challenges, barriers and opportunities. Project ideas may be incorporated into the community’s economic development strategy. Community Asset Mapping

DEO and partnering agencies will work together to help the community target potential resources for specific projects identified in the community’s economic development strategy. Resource Matching

Building human capital is a key component to community, workforce and economic development. The information gathered during public meetings and asset mapping exercise could be used in the needs assessment conducted by the Community Action Agency. There are resources managed by Community Action Agencies that may help address needs or projects identified by the community. Community Action Agency Involvement

William B. Killingsworth Director, Division of Community Development