Business retention and expansion (BR&E) programs are important tools for economic development. BR&E involves regularly visiting existing businesses to understand their needs, identify issues, and ensure they remain in the community. Key elements of successful BR&E programs include confidentiality, planning, partnerships, and a multi-step model involving pre-launch planning, company visits, data analysis, and strategic planning. BR&E programs have led to new jobs, retained industries, funding opportunities, and overall positive economic impacts for communities.

1. Soaring To Success With Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) Grady Batchelor President, Industrial Development Authority of Winston County, Alabama www.idawinston.org

3. What Is Synchronist®?* A Tool A Process A Foundation for Growth Synchronist® is a service of Blane-Canada Ltd.

5. Key Elements of BR&E Programs Confidentiality People Planning BR&E Model Partners

7. BR&E Model Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Pre-Launch Planning Company Visits / Interviews Post Visit / Red Flag Identification Data Analysis Follow Up Strategic Planning and Implementation

18. Major Positive Change

19. Major Positive Change