There are both similarities and differences between traditional and advanced manufacturing, as our feature, “Creating an Environment to Attract Advanced Manufacturing,” points out. Another feature in this issue helps to determine if a community is “utility-friendly” for business expansion. We also look at the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones Program, which helps an ever-growing number of U.S.-based businesses maintain their international competitiveness. “Sites & Programs” focuses on workforce training and education, and we look at four key states for growth: Florida, North Carolina, Kentucky and Ohio.
No matter what they may be called—industrial parks, technology parks, business parks, commerce parks, certified sites or some other designation—the U.S. has numerous “designated sites” that are perfect for businesses of all types. Many are shovel-ready, many have already addressed infrastructure and many have been through due diligence obligations. more....