EDC
Estero Economic Development Council
Mission
Purpose of the Office for Economic Development
The purpose of the Office for Economic Development, within the Chamber of Commerce, is to advance the opportunities for both profit and not-for-profit organizations to establish, grow and prosper within the community of Estero. In addition, the office is committed to assuring that a high standard for quality of life is maintained for new and current residents as the community expands. Finally, the office will participate in all regional initiatives that serve the greater good of Southwest Florida communities.
Economic Development Council Members
Jordan Azis
Stickboy
Technology Advisor
Warren Baucom
Lee County Economic Development Office
Director, Partnerships & Entrepreneurial Activities
Gary Bonvillian, Ph.D.
Estero Chamber of Commerce
Director of Economic Development
Peg Elmore
Director of Business Services
CareerSource Southwest Florida
Mary Gibbs, AICP
Village of Estero Director of Community Development
Dr. Amir Borges Ferreira Neto
Director of Florida Gulf Coast University
Regional Economic Research Institute
Steve Sarkozy
Estero Village Manager
Ex Officio Members
Nolen Rollins
President
Estero Chamber of Commerce
Pamela Mueller
Executive Director
Estero Chamber of Commerce
Partnerships
The Village of Estero Council and Staff
The Estero Council of Community Leaders
Horizon Council of Lee County Economic Development
Career Source of Southwest Florida
Lee County Economic Development Office
Florida Gulf Coast University
Regional Economic Research Institute
Local and Regional Business Enterprises
Not for Profit and Faith-Based Organizations
Educational Enterprises
Local Board of Realtors
Current Initiatives
The Office of Economic Development is currently working with the Regional Economic Research Institute, and Florida Gulf Coast University, on a proposal to conduct a comprehensive study of Estero’s opportunities for growth and prosperity as a community. The study, which will be entitled, Assessment and Strategy Recommendations for Economic Development in the Community of Estero, will include the following:
History and Evolution of Estero as a Community
Strategic Objectives for Estero’s Future
An Assessment of Major Contributing Factors in Estero’s Economic Development to include…
Existing initiatives directed at economic development
Estero’s capacity for expansion
Workforce analysis
Educational resources
Status of existing enterprises
Rising industries
Creation of a Village Center