TRE Networks: Uncovering Regional Cluster-Based Economic Development Strategies

As you may recall, in October ICIC held its annual Inner City Economic Summit – or “Urban 2.0” – to address the challenges facing our inner city economies.  One of the most riveting presentations at the Summit was by ICIC founder, Dr. Michael E. Porter. Porter, an expert on inner city economies, indicated that the debate about cluster-based economic development is over; it works.  He explained that it’s now time to move on to the implementation phase, or the “next frontier.”

TRE (Transformative Regional Engagement) Networks is hosting its annual roundtable, Dec. 5-7th, to uncover what this “next frontier” might look like. With cluster-based economic development at its core, the roundtable seeks to identify ways to “make regionalism work.” 

Topics at the TRE Roundtable vary, but include: how to form a coalition to promote advanced manufacturing in the Great lakes mega-region; the topic of “economic development and equity: achieving scale” – which will look at how people and places can connect to growth and opportunity rather than holding back progress; and the role of universities in promoting regional economic development.

Those familiar with ICIC may recognize that these topics (industrial clusters, the geography of poverty, and anchor institutions) are key areas of interest to ICIC and our urban cores.  While TRE Networks is focused on regional approaches, we also understand that what works for the region does not necessarily work for the inner city.  Porter highlighted this at the Summit when he said:

Inner cities have a different rhythm. They have different drivers. Yes, if the regional economy grows, that’s a good thing.  But there’s a very weak correlation between regional economic growth and inner city economic growth in terms of jobs…what this says is we have to have a regional strategy, and that’s critical, but if we care about equity, if we care about really tackling poverty in economically disadvantaged areas, we have to add specific strategies to build on the assets of our inner cities.

We’re looking forward to joining TRE Networks as a partner, and look forward to joining in these vital conversations about regional cluster development. At the same time, we cannot lose sight of our inner city areas. By including inner city strategies throughout the regional planning process, regions achieve economic growth that benefits all parts of the region and all its residents.  

For more information about the TRE Roundtable, visit http://www.trenetworks.org/events/2011roundtable/index.php

BY Amanda Maher on November 22nd, 2011

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