Cleco is joining organizations across the globe to celebrate Economic Development Week, an annual event started by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) in 2016, to recognize the vital role economic developers play in driving growth and building strong communities.

“Economic development is one of the most powerful tools we have to improve our quality of life,” said Eric Schouest, vice president of marketing and governmental affairs.  “This week is an opportunity to celebrate the collective impact of our efforts and raise awareness about the ongoing work to grow our economy.”

While their work is often behind the scenes, economic development professionals help existing businesses expand and attract new businesses and industries to bring good-paying jobs to Louisiana and stimulate local economies.
 
These professionals work at energy companies like Cleco, as well as at chambers of commerce, government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

Cleco’s economic development team partners with local, regional and state organizations to recruit businesses to Louisiana and support growth in the company’s 24-parish service area.

“Our job is to help showcase all Louisiana has to offer, from reliable energy to infrastructure like ports and waterways and agricultural land,” said Richard Cornelison, Cleco’s director of marketing and economic development.  “We identify, prepare and promote development-ready sites to site selectors and consultants, ensure necessary utilities are in place and provide detailed electric utility data.” 

For 90 years, Cleco has helped bring businesses to Louisiana by providing reliable electricity and good customer service.  The company continues to invest in its transmission and distribution systems to meet the growing demand for electricity, especially from emerging technologies like data centers and businesses looking for clean energy to meet their sustainability goals.

“One example is Cleco’s partnership with SunGas Renewables Inc. to serve their Beaver Lake Renewable Energy project, a green methanol production facility to be built in central Louisiana,” said Cornelison.  “This clean energy project is estimated to create over 1,150 construction jobs and more than 100 local permanent jobs.”

Throughout the week, Cleco will share key components of its economic development work to educate and recognize collective achievements.
 
Monday, May 12: Message from the Top
Video Message from Cleco’s President & CEO on Economic Development

Tuesday, May 13: Meet the Team Behind the Scenes
Introduce Cleco’s Economic Development Team

Wednesday, May 14: Partner Spotlight
Highlight some of Cleco’s Economic Development Partners

Thursday, May 15 – Friday, May 16: Business Success Stories
Share success stories from businesses Cleco has helped support