Show-Me State Times

Greater St. Louis, Inc. recently held its second Inclusive Economic Growth Summit, gathering leaders from the 15-county bi-state St. Louis metro area to discuss collaborative efforts for inclusive economic growth. The event was hosted by journalist Michelle Li and included panel discussions and a fireside chat with Dr. Xavier de Souza Briggs, a senior fellow at Brookings Metro.

Jason Hall, CEO of Greater St. Louis, Inc., emphasized the importance of unity in the business community to foster growth and inclusion across the region. "Our work is all about bringing the business community together," he stated, highlighting the aim for everyone in the metro area to thrive regardless of background.

One panel focused on pathways to careers in high-growth industries like advanced manufacturing, which employs over 57,000 people in the metro area and saw a 9% employment increase from 2012 to 2018. Panelists discussed diverse educational pathways' role in meeting industry needs. Ola Ayeni stressed technology's impact on job markets and skills requirements while Dena McCaffrey called for adaptability between employers and education providers.

Supplier diversity was another key topic at the summit. Lakesha Mathis moderated a discussion that highlighted how local purchasing can bolster diverse business growth and create jobs within communities. Byron Witherspoon noted that "supplier diversity is a team sport," pointing out access, development, and sustainability as crucial elements for small business success.

The summit also addressed making diverse business growth a public policy priority. Adam Kazda led a discussion with policymakers such as Illinois State Senator Christopher Belt and Missouri State Senator Tracy McCreery about leveraging policy for economic advancement without exclusion.

The event concluded with Valerie Patton discussing civic collaboration through public-private partnerships with Dr. Xavier de Souza Briggs during a fireside chat. Briggs highlighted civic capacity's role in building bridges across communities nationwide, positioning St. Louis as capable of setting an example for others.