What's really driving global location decisions today?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Johan Beukema of BCI Global to unpack the shifting landscape of site selection and investment strategy.

From AI and data centers to supply chain resilience, Johan explains how companies are rethinking where they invest—and why. As decentralization accelerates, talent and strong ecosystems are becoming just as important as cost.

The conversation also highlights a key shift: "soft factors" like workforce quality, innovation networks, and livability are now critical differentiators in competitive markets.

A core takeaway? Communities need to clearly define their strengths and align with the right opportunities to stay competitive.

Key Takeaways

• Lower-cost locations are gaining ground

• Talent and ecosystems now rival cost in decision-making

• AI and data centers are reshaping site selection

• Supply chain resilience remains a top priority

• Clear positioning is critical for competitiveness

Key Topics Covered

• Global location strategy shifts

• AI and data centers in site selection

• Decentralization and regional trends

• Talent and ecosystem importance

• Supply chain resilience

Sound Bites

• "Lower cost locations have climbed up the ladder."

• "Focus on soft factors, not just real estate."

• "Define project profiles to benchmark your location."

How is economic development evolving in a world shaped by rapid technological change?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Alejandra Y. Castillo to explore how regional strategies, emerging technologies, and workforce development are redefining the field.

From AI to quantum computing, Alejandra breaks down how innovation is influencing where and how communities grow. She emphasizes the importance of infrastructure, regional collaboration, and staying grounded in a global context that continues to shape local decisions.

Workforce development is a central theme, with a focus on building skills across all levels—from technical expertise to entrepreneurship and AI literacy.

A key message? Communities that align technology, talent, and strategy will be best positioned for long-term success.

Key Takeaways

• Global context is shaping local economic decisions

• Emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing are driving change

• Regional strategies and infrastructure are critical

• Workforce development must span all skill levels

• Innovation and talent alignment are key to competitiveness

Key Topics Covered

• Evolution of economic development practices

• Impact of emerging technologies

• Regional strategies and infrastructure

• Workforce development and future skills

• Global and national considerations

Sound Bites

• "Global context impacts our decisions today"

• "We need skills across the spectrum"

• "AI literacy and entrepreneurship are key"

In this inspiring episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Mark C. Perna to explore the power of bold thinking, visionary leadership, and rallying people around big ideas. Drawing on their shared fascination with the Apollo program, they unpack how the audacity of aiming for the moon transformed not just science—but an entire generation's mindset.

From the iconic leadership behind the Apollo 11 Moon Landing to the forward-looking ambitions of the Artemis Program, this conversation connects the dots between space exploration and the work economic developers do every day: building momentum, inspiring communities, and executing bold visions.

Mark and Dennis reflect on cultural touchpoints, childhood wonder, and even the small details—yes, including Tang—that made space exploration feel personal and powerful.

If you're working to energize your community, align stakeholders, or inspire the next generation, this episode offers a compelling reminder: big progress starts with big ideas.

Takeaway

The moon landing wasn't just a technological achievement—it was a masterclass in leadership, collaboration, and belief. For today's economic and community developers, the lesson is clear: when you set bold goals and invite others into the vision, you create momentum that can move mountains… or even reach the moon.