Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI)

Exciting Day at the Greater Missouri Leadership Challenge!? Today, we're thrilled to host Day 3 of the first session of #GMLC2025 at REDI, focusing on the Governmental/Political Process and Education in Columbia and Jefferson City. A special thanks to our mayor for kicking off the morning with an inspiring talk on public service and her leadership journey.? Stay tuned for more updates, and check out our full session agendas here: Session Agendas

Boone County’s Hidden Asset: How Rail Access Fuels Business Growth Boone County has a powerful economic driver that many may not realize—the City of Columbia Terminal (COLT) Railroad. This key rail link connects Columbia to the Norfolk Southern mainline in Centralia, providing local businesses with a critical gateway to national and global markets. Our latest article dives into: - How rail-served sites reduce costs & improve supply chain resilience - Why industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and warehousing depend on rail access - The newly available rail-served industrial site in Boone County - REDI’s role in promoting Boone County’s rail assets to attract business & investment As demand for rail-served locations grows, Boone County is well-positioned to compete for industrial development. REDI is working to ensure our region remains a top choice for businesses seeking cost-effective, sustainable, and reliable transportation solutions.

Employer Resource Series: Conflict Resolution Workshop Are workplace conflicts impacting your team’s success? A strong, positive culture is essential for productivity and growth—but maintaining it can be a challenge. Join us for "The Art of Uncovering Conflict in the Workplace" and gain insights & strategies to: - Identify challenges - Navigate critical conversations - Implement lasting solutions ?March 11, 2025 ?8:10 AM – 9:00 AM (Doors open at 7:45 AM) ?REDI Training Room – 500 E Walnut, Suite 102 ? Facilitator: Sunitha Bosecker, LPC – Licensed Therapist & Mental Wellness Consultant RSVP today! For more info, contact [email protected]

Exciting news for Columbia! The City has hired Paul Eisenstein as the new Economic Development Director and President of Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI). He’ll begin in the role on March 10. With a wealth of experience in economic development, most recently at the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Paul is well-equipped to help attract new investments, create job opportunities, and diversify our local economy. We’re thrilled to welcome Paul to the team and look forward to the positive impact he’ll have on Columbia’s future! ?? Learn more about this right here - https://lnkd.in/gJsze6mu #EconomicDevelopment #ColumbiaMO #Leadership #REDI #CommunityGrowth #InvestInColumbia #WelcomePaul

Stacey Button has led REDI for ten years and will soon retire. Community members came together to celebrate the work and impact she’s made for Boone County.

The wait is almost over! The 2025 Economic Outlook Conference is happening NEXT WEEK on Wednesday, February 5th at Bixby Lecture Hall, Columbia College. Don’t miss your chance to gain critical insights into national, state, and regional economics: Keynote Speaker: Curtis Dubay, Chief Economist, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Local Panel on Retail Development, featuring Mike Grellner (REDI Vice Chair) of Plaza Commercial Realty Networking Reception to connect with fellow business and community leaders Agenda Highlights: 12:30 p.m. Registration Opens 1:00 p.m. Welcome & Program Begins 4:30 p.m. Reception

Entrepreneur Spotlight: Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia At our January Board Meeting, Jackie Reed, co-founder of Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia, shared her inspiring mission to provide compassionate, end-of-life care for families in need. As our population continues to age, this nonprofit provides a needed service in Columbia.? As a nonprofit, the organization has unique challenges as a start-up that are distinct from for-profit businesses. To address these needs, REDI has begun a Nonprofit Cohort for Hub clients who run/manage nonprofit organizations.? Meetings are held monthly; interested Hub clients can contact Shaunda Hamilton for more information.? To learn more about one such nonprofit, check out

Investor Mission Moment: SOA Architecture At our January Board Meeting, Jen Hedrick, owner of SOA Architecture, shared how her firm contributes to Columbia’s vibrant economic growth. As a Woman-Owned Business Enterprise, SOA exemplifies the power of collaboration in shaping our community. As Jen said, “None of these projects would be possible without collaboration. Together, we can make Columbia the best it can be.” Learn more about SOA and their impact:

Save the Date for the 2025 Economic Outlook Conference! Mark your calendars! The 2025 Economic Outlook Conference will take place Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at Bixby Lecture Hall, Columbia College. Gain valuable insights on national, statewide, and regional economics with industry leaders: Keynote Speaker: Curtis Dubay, Chief Economist, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Local Panel on Retail Development, featuring Mike Grellner (REDI Board Vice Chair) from Plaza Commercial Realty Agenda Highlights: 12:30 p.m. Doors Open for Registration 1:00 p.m. Program Begins 4:30 p.m. Networking Reception RSVP today to the Columbia Chamber.?

Another I am REDI podcast recording session underway. But this time, the focus is on the HOST, Lisa Driskel Hawxby. Lisa is the business development specialist who focuses on business retention and expansion. Get to know her a bit better when her episode is released in 2025! #IAmREDI #podcast #economicdevelopment