When people think about economic development, they often picture big announcements, major investments and ribbon cuttings. Those moments matter. They signal confidence in a region and reflect years of effort by many partners.

But they don’t happen by accident. And they don’t continue without someone driving them forward and having a solid foundation underneath.

Lake to River grew very quickly from its 2024 origin. In a short period of time, the organization helped establish a clear regional identity, build trust with partners and support meaningful investment across Ashtabula, Trumbull, Mahoning and Columbiana counties.

That early momentum matters. Now we need to continue that trajectory strategically, responsibly and intentionally.

Since stepping into the role of CEO, my focus has been on strengthening the relationships we have and augmenting the foundation that allows our progress to endure.

Over the past several weeks, I’ve spent significant time traveling the region and meeting with business leaders, local economic development organizations, workforce partners, educators, elected officials and community stakeholders. The response has been thoughtful and welcoming. I will continue such meetings, learning the wishes, dreams and aspirations of our stakeholders.

Those conversations have reinforced something I already understood about Eastern Ohio: there is no shortage of commitment, talent or ideas here. What matters most right now is alignment, clarity and capacity.

Strong economic development organizations are built on trust, transparency and confidence. Confidence from partners that roles are clear. Confidence from investors that decisions are disciplined. Confidence from communities that resources are being stewarded responsibly and with purpose.

At Lake to River, that means operating with intention. It means ensuring strong governance, sound financial practices, clear internal processes and an organizational structure that supports long-term growth. It also means being very clear about Lake to River’s role in the regional ecosystem.

From the beginning, we have been deliberate about where we put our chips: on collaboration. Lake to River is not here to duplicate the work of community partners. We are here to support them.

Our role is to lead efforts across four counties, reduce friction and make it easier for businesses and communities to navigate and access opportunities.

From a business perspective, economic development works best when the system is clear and connected. Companies considering growth or expansion don’t want to make a dozen calls to figure out where to start. They want to understand the workforce, the infrastructure, the sites and the opportunities quickly and clearly. Lake to River exists to provide that clarity, working alongside the partners who know their communities best.

From a community perspective, long-term economic success depends on more than one major project or one super-sized employer. It depends on workforce readiness, site development, vibrant downtowns and places where people want to live, work and raise families. Much of that work happens quietly, over time, through coordination and partnership.

That work may not be flashy, but it’s the work that brings people here. It allows companies to grow here. It encourages young people who left for college or early careers to see a future back home.

If you build a house on sand, eventually it washes away. If you build it on a solid foundation, it stands. Even when conditions change.

Lake to River’s focus right now is on making sure this region has that kind of foundation. One that supports continued investment, sustained job growth and opportunity across all four counties. And not just today, but for years to come.

Dani Robbins is CEO of Lake to River Economic Development.