MaryAnn Moon named IEDC’s Member of the Month

June's IEDC Member Spotlight shines on our exceptional Executive Director, MaryAnn Moon! Get to know the driving force behind our organization, her vision, and the incredible impact she has made.

 

Why did you choose to join IEDC?

I chose to be a member of IEDC because it is OUR professional organization.

How has being a member of IEDC benefitted you and/or your organization?

Being a member of IEDC has provided a plethora of opportunities for me and my community. Sharing best practices, research, current data, and innovative ideas is of great benefit to those whom I serve. Connecting with EDers from across the world provides a network of support, professionalism, and knowledge. I've become a better practitioner because of these opportunities.

What IEDC event do you look forward to attending each year?

The Annual Conference and Federal Forum have been my favorite IEDC events. The Annual is always filled with energy, and the content is varied and informative. From a networking perspective, it's like a family reunion. We Economic Developers are a close-knit group, and convening at the largest attended IEDC event is always positive. The Fed Forum was a terrific opportunity to meet with elected officials, share IEDC's mission, and receive legislative updates relevant to our work. Hopefully, we will, again, find ourselves in DC.

Is there a project your organization is currently working on that you are excited about?

We are in the midst of several projects! A Downtown Master Plan process is underway. We have restructured our organization which has included a new website, brand, office complex, and vision. We are engaged in a shared Strategic Plan with the Town and are developing a Targeted Industry strategy and incentive program. Providing assistance as a

Community Development partner, we created a regional safety program with an international corporation. Under the leadership of the PEDC, our community received an EDA $3 million infrastructure grant and will soon begin a significant water project to support a newly established regional pediatric hospital and corridor for commercial growth.

How has your organization adapted to support your community and/or clients during the pandemic?

Being defined as 'essential,' the PEDC staff never missed a day in the office. Adhering to safety protocols, we pivoted. Where in-person site visits, meetings, and discussions were commonplace, we quickly established virtual meetings. The organization became the clearing house for CARES, PPP, EIDL, and other grant programs. We established a local grant program for qualified small businesses, created a business database for all available services, assisted businesses with the expansion and creation of websites, and became an integral part of the community's and region's Emergency Management Coordination Team. Our work continues.

What is something you and/or your organization have accomplished this year that you are most proud of?

ALL of the above!

What are some ways you hope you and your organization can continue to support your community and/or clients?

Our plan is to continue to provide our businesses and community organizations with relevant information and opportunities for growth and sustainability. We will adhere to the shared vision of our residents, business owners, and investors to create a community in which everyone

has the ability to participate. Prosper is an incredibly wealthy Town both in resources and income. Being good stewards of these gifts is our mission.

Coffee or Tea?

Both!

Audio Book or Podcast?

Podcast

Favorite Movie?

I can't name just one.

Favorite Book?

Atlas Shrugged

Night Out or Night In?

Both

Dress-shoes or Sneakers?

Dress Shoes

What is something you like to do in your free time?

READ! Hiking, Fly Fishing, Work-I like to work.