Better Paying Jobs

 Featured Project: Manufacturing Development Program

Description
The Manufacturing Development Program addresses the development and implementation of business improvement projects associated with increasing global competitiveness and adopting world class manufacturing practices. Successful implementation of these projects will positively influence the retention and/or expansion of higher wage jobs in local manufacturing businesses. The program targets small-to-medium sized manufacturing companies and offers guidance associated with all aspects of business operations.

Key Features

• Interaction begins with a discussion regarding general operational issues, products and services, established markets and other business related issues.
• City staff then conducts a general business assessment, usually at no cost to the firm.
• If improvement projects are identified and the company requests continued assistance, city staff begins the process of networking to develop the necessary resources. The city may also assist with project funding, through grants, loans, or investors.

Partners
Local business consultants, educational institutions, private sector organizations, and government agencies

Impact

• Between July and December 1999, the Manufacturing Development Program:
• Completed 26 manufacturing assistance projects ï Initiated $100,000+ in local private sector consulting services
• Assisted in the retention and/or creation of 99 higher wage jobs

For more information about Manufacturing Development, contact Lee Smith, 791-5093, ljsmith1@ci.tucson.az.us

• Support for Business Incubators
• Greater Tucson Economic Council - Academy Without Walls
• JobPath

Goal Indicator definition for this project.