Understand economic development issues. The grantee found that recycling market development staff hired from environmental positions usually understand the JTR initiative from an environmental perspective, but often do not have a strong grasp of economic development issues. Economic developers look at the recycling industry in terms of jobs, productivity, and balance sheets rather than tonnage and diversion. REDAs need to understand economic development issues such as financing mechanisms within their state and where to find assistance with reviewing business plans and financial data. Understanding economic development was crucial to establishing credibility for the program and effectively assisting businesses.
Market development is small business development.
As the bulk of businesses are small to medium, paying attention to the resources available to this segment of industry is critical. Focus on materials that matter. Also, look at market trends and try to understand the market issues of different industry sectors. This will help you advocate on behalf of priority industry sectors. Only report approved figures.