Panel at CEOs for Cities 2014 National Meeting explored how to align economic growth with economic opportunity. Inclusion is becoming a business imperative, as the cities which best develop and deploy all of their assets are most prosperous. Yet the drivers of growth in the knowledge economy tend to increase inequality. How can we best achieve innovative AND inclusive city and regional economic growth? We will explore how some cities and metro regions are bridging the “growth” and “opportunity” disconnect through inclusive economic development strategies that expand economic opportunity as an integral part of transitioning to high growth, knowledge-based economies.

1. DIGITAL INCLUSION
MAYOR SLY JAMES KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

3. KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

4. • Recognize that digital inclusion is an
ongoing, long term effort & investment
• Support community organizations in their
mission to educate residents
• Grant funding, inclusivity summits and city
programming
• Work with community leaders, teachers, local
business owners, neighbors and faith based
organizations
• “No man left behind” strategy