Community & Economic Development Strategy
Grow Smarter St. Pete
Grow Smarter is an economic development strategy with a focus on equity.
They operate as a cross-sector initiative with the mission to reduce gaps by race and place by creating equitable economic growth.
Mission is to build an inclusive, multi-sector initiative to create equitable economic growth in St. Petersburg.
Vision is that St. Petersburg will grow equitably and have a vibrant, diversified economy that benefits all.
Background
Grow Smarter began in 2014 as a partnership between the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of St. Petersburg to enhance the city’s ability to support diverse economic growth.
The Grow Smarter Strategy identified five target industry sectors primed for growth and development in St. Petersburg: Marine & Life Science, Data Analytics, Specialized Manufacturing, Creative Arts & Design, and Financial Services. The strategy also led to the creation of the Economic Development Corporation and St. Petersburg Innovation District.
In 2018, a grant from the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg allowed Grow Smarter to hire staff and bring an equity lens to these economic development efforts.
What They Do
BUILD CONNECTIONS
ADVANCE CONVERSATIONS
SPARK ACTION
Equity & Grow Smarter Investors
Click here to learn more about opportunities to become an Equity & Grow Smarter Alliance investor and support our Programs of Work for 2021.
Contact Grow Smarter Manager: Jocelyn Howard | jhoward@growsmarterstpete.com