SMARTstart
Pasco EDC Task Forces & Committees
Participation in one of Pasco EDC's task forces or committees is a great way to actively contribute to the cultivation of a vibrant business climate in Pasco County, a climate in which every business can achieve its economic potential.
Innovation and Technology Task Force
Beginning FY24-25, October 2024
The Innovation and Technology Task Force promotes economic growth by fostering technological innovation. It focuses on creating innovation hubs, developing tech talent through educational partnerships, supporting R&D activities, and organizing tech events like hackathons. By collaborating with tech companies, universities, venture capitalists, and research institutions, the task force aims to position the region as a tech hub and drive technological advancement.
Contact: Dan Mitchell, Pasco EDC
Business Connections Task Force
Beginning FY24-25, October 2024
The Business Connections Task Force aims to facilitate collaboration and attract investment for economic development. It focuses on developing relationships with investors, organizing networking events, encouraging public-private partnerships, implementing effective communication strategies, and providing investor support services. By fostering strong networks and keeping stakeholders informed and engaged, the task force seeks to enhance the region's visibility and attractiveness to investors, driving economic growth and development.
Contact: Turner Arbour, Pasco EDC
Business Resilience and Sustainability Task Force
Concluded FY23-24, August 2024
This Business Resilience and Sustainability task force will be formed to discuss a multifaceted approach towards resilience to support the business community. They will explore the development of continuity plans for unforeseen emergencies, the benefits and integration of digital tools to enhance business fortitude, strategies to address economic resilience amidst potential economic downturns, and methods to engage the community in sustainable practices. Additionally, considerations for environmental challenges like climate change will be addressed. This holistic approach aims to equip businesses for a resilient and sustainable future.
Chair: Cynthia Spidell, Stearns Weaver
Collaborative Planning and Development Task Force
Concluded FY23-24, August 2024
The Collaborative Planning and Development task force is geared towards enhancing the collaboration between the Pasco EDC and the Pasco County government. Their primary objective is to create joint development initiatives that benefit Pasco County. While shared programmatic solutions will be a consideration, a significant emphasis will be placed on collaboratively devising a strategic plan. Central to this planning will be discussions on the future direction of the Penny for Pasco funded programs overseen by the Pasco EDC, ensuring unified progress and vision.
Chair: Dewey Mitchell, Berkshire Hathaway Florida Properties Group
Global Competitiveness Committee
Established to collaborate and identify ways to SHAPE international and domestic projects by removing obstacles that may impede the county’s ability to be competitive and aid in enhancing current economic development efforts through innovation. Discussions may include, but are not limited to matters such as transportation, education, workforce, quality of life, reputation, and socioeconomic mobility.
Contact: Turner Arbour, Pasco EDC
WorkforceCONNECT Advisory Committee
Continues to bring together advocates who are passionate about workforce development as counsel for the new Pasco Pipeline program initiatives. The committee will provide direction, data and ideas necessary to develop Pasco’s talent pipeline and website to ensure the success of aligning the supply and demand of talent in Pasco County.
Contact: Sarah Alway, Pasco EDC
Audit Committee
A four-person Audit Committee is appointed by the Chair each year and must include:
- A Past Chair
- The Current Secretary/Treasurer
- And Two Board Members
The Audit Committee serves as a direct communication link between the audit firm and the Pasco EDC. The purpose is to engage in audit planning, monitor the progress of the audit and be responsible for financial reporting oversight. The Audit Committee may also meet annually to review and/or implement safeguards to prevent financial fraud.