2019 was a year to remember: looking back to look forward
Published: 12/31/2019
Updated: 08/08/2023
As this year ends, we not only want to look back on the economic development accomplishments that occurred in Greater Phoenix, but also look forward to what we can accomplish together in the new decade.
The past year has been one to remember. There were many regional successes, but here are four that top the list:
- In July, we closed FY19 with record-breaking success. In collaboration with our community and regional partners, we assisted 50 companies with their move to Greater Phoenix, reaching a milestone of 800 companies moving here since GPEC’s founding 30 years ago. These 50 companies put a capital investment of $1.18 billion back into the regional economy and created about 8,800 jobs in Greater Phoenix.
- In early October, GPEC, the Partnership for Economic Innovation, Arizona State University, CEI and the City of Phoenix partnered to launch the WearTech Applied Research Center. This center will partner with industry to develop wearable technology solutions that improve quality of life and human performance. Learn more about WearTech.
- In October, GPEC’s annual event, Greater PHX Fest, brought together 1,000 of our closest friends and community partners to celebrate what has been accomplished by working together. At this event, GPEC also launched our refreshed brand and announced the tagline, Greater Together. Check out the event recap video here.
- In November, GPEC, Arizona Institute for Digital Progress, ASU, and the Maricopa Association of Governments partnered to launch The Connective, a Greater Phoenix Smart Region Consortium. Through this unique collaboration, Greater Phoenix will become the nation’s largest, most connected smart region, developing and deploying technology scalable solutions rooted in connectivity, mobility, equity, and sustainability. Learn more about The Connective.
These regional accomplishments were achieved by working together. In 2020 and throughout this next decade, we look forward to the continued growth of our entrepreneurial ecosystem and welcoming more innovative companies to the region to not only enhance Greater Phoenix’s economy, but the quality of life here.
These regional accomplishments would not have been possible without the support and partnership of our Board of Directors, community partners, investors and staff.
As we close one decade, we step foot into the exciting new possibilities ahead. Happy New Year, Greater Phoenix.
