Brought to you by: ACES (Avila Community Economic Solutions)

Building Local Economies from the Inside Out

Modern economic development is no longer only about chasing large companies, offering subsidies, or waiting for outside investment to transform a city. The strongest communities are building growth from within by supporting local entrepreneurs, activating downtowns, improving business access, creating visitor activity, and telling a clearer story about who they are and why they matter. Small businesses, cultural identity, walkable districts, tourism, community events, and streamlined permitting are not side issues; they are part of a city’s economic engine. When cities invest in their own people, places, and local assets, they create stronger conditions for revenue growth, business attraction, civic pride, and long-term opportunity.

At Avila Community Economic Solutions, ACES believes economic growth begins with identity and becomes powerful through strategy. Every community has a story, whether rooted in agriculture, family, culture, workforce strength, education, downtown life, or regional access. The goal is to turn that story into practical action by helping cities support entrepreneurs, prepare investor-facing materials, identify funding pathways, strengthen business systems, and connect growth to community benefit. Economic growth is strongest when communities are not just developed for investment, but prepared to participate in it. Stay informed with ACES as we bring together the latest and greatest in economic and community development to help cities plan, connect, and implement stronger futures.