Cory Hunt, Governor's Office of Economic Development Meets with Corporate Philanthropy Partners

The Corporate Philanthropy Partners met on December 7 to learn about the progress of the Community Foundation initiative and hear Cory Hunt, Deputy Director, Governor's Office of Economic Development speak about  "Corporate Support for the Community in Nevada's New Economy." Over lunch, Hunt provided an overview of the economic changes in the region, particularly increased expansion and relocation of businesses in the area.  Hunt listed new businesses that either grew significantly or moved to Nevada. Interestingly, though companies such as Tesla and Panasonic typically get most of the attention due to the Gigafactory, food - which is the third-largest specialized sector in Washoe County in 2014 - is actually a major player in Northern Nevada's manufacturing sector. While many of the infrastructure and public transportation improvements needed to accommodate a growing population are not ones that can easily be addressed through most corporate philanthropy, Hunt did point to other sectors, such as workforce education that might provide opportunities for business to engage with the community. Corporate Support for the Community in Nevada's New Economy.  Hunt offered that workforce education through Washoe County High School and Truckee Meadows Community College is an area that would benefit from corporate philanthropy either by providing funding for scholarships, educators or classes. After questions and discussion prompted by Hunt's presentation Chris Askin, CEO, asked the Partners to suggest topics for the 2018 Community Conversation.