The Business Facilities Podcast

Inside Montgomery County, Maryland’s Innovation Economy

From life sciences to aerospace innovation, Montgomery County, Maryland is a powerhouse location for high-growth industries. This episode with Jared Smith, President & CEO of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation reveals why companies — from global giants to emerging startups — are finding success here. Dubbed "DNA Alley", the county's proximity to Washington, DC affords companies access to 18 federal agencies, including NIH and FDA. Aerospace and defense firms find a thriving industry ecosystem that includes an established satellite communications niche. The conversation also examines commercialization opportunities and strategic partnerships for business. And, the highly-educated, diverse workforce supports companies in multiple industries. Listen now for the latest insight about one of the country’s fastest-growing innovation ecosystems.

Energy & The Next Wave Of Manufacturing

As manufacturers face rising energy demands and increased speed to market as a priority, effective collaboration between site selection teams, utilities, and economic developers is key. Companies operating continuous, high-load facilities know energy reliability and resilience are critical. In this episode, leaders from the Greater Richmond Partnership, Dominion Energy, and Columbia Gas of Virginia discuss the impact of coordinated planning for manufacturers to navigate their infrastructure needs, accelerate speed to market, and reduce operational risk. The conversation includes insights on scalable power solutions, electric and natural gas integration, data center impacts, and site readiness.

Virginia’s Talent Pipeline

Our conversation with Megan Healy, Chief of Talent and Workforce Strategy for the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, is a comprehensive view into how the Commonwealth fortifies its world-class talent base to meet the needs of business for today’s economy. Hear how businesses benefit from the award-winning Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, and how the new InternshipsVA program links employers and students.

North Carolina Is World-Class For Business

Our conversation with Christopher Chung, CEO of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC), gives a high-level look at how the state cultivates its business-friendly environment and a closer look at what is on the horizon in 2026.

Innovation In Virginia

Our conversation with Jason El Koubi, Virginia Economic Development Partnership President & CEO, reveals a robust environment for innovation across the Commonwealth. From biopharma to aerospace, and from food & beverage to business services, companies in Virginia access rich resources for growth.

Listen Now: Cold Storage Capabilities At North Carolina Ports

With a strategic location on the U.S. East Coast, North Carolina’s ports provide world-class advantages. We spoke with Aaron Brott, Senior Director, Key Clients & Trade Development at NC Ports to explore the state-of-the-art facilities and services the Port of Wilmington and the Port of Morehead City offer business, with a highlight on Wilmington’s modern, expansive cold storage capabilities. Presented by ElectriCities of North Carolina

Listen Now: Thriving Marine Industry In North Carolina

From its coast on the Atlantic Ocean to its vast inland waterways, North Carolina provides an extensive network for companies throughout the marine industry to thrive. We spoke with Bob Peele, Director at the North Carolina Marine Industrial Authority, to explore what the state offers companies in the marine industry, including boat building, commercial fishing, and the products and services supporting those businesses. Presented by ElectriCities of North Carolina.

A Talk with Scott Hamilton, President/CEO, Golden LEAF Foundation

Presented by ElectriCities of North Carolina, this conversation shares a look into the Golden LEAF Foundation’s impact across the state. Borne through the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement with cigarette manufacturers, this nonprofit is focused on increasing economic opportunity in rural communities through grantmaking. While its industry focus is broad, the biomanufacturing sector has seen great strides with the help of the Foundation’s work. This is the first episode of a podcast series presented by ElectriCities of North Carolina, with introductions by Carl Rees, CEcD, Manager, Economic and Community Development there.