Amazon has created more jobs in America in the last decade than any other company. With such a level of job growth, it’s only natural that the company has built an internal economic development team with its own strategy around doing developmental project work. How does economic development strategy differ when operating on behalf of a corporate entity rather than a geographical location?

On today’s episode, Carla Sones is joined by Sam Blatt, Manager of Economic Development Policy at Amazon. Sam shares how his experience in “traditional” economic development translates into his role now, what is similar and what is distinctly different when representing a global corporation. He talks about the relationship between Amazon and local community partners and gives advice regarding working hand-in-hand to bring projects across the finish line. Sam also dives into Amazon’s goal to be net-zero carbon by 2040 and what effects that commitment has on potential projects.

Carla’s conversation with Sam dives into a new (and quickly growing) side of economic development. With an increasing trend in large global corporations building their own internal economic development teams, today’s episode helps shine a light on how we can all work together to ensure prosperous communities for generations to come. You can find today’s episode on our website, via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.

America’s Jobs Team is sponsored by Research on Investment / Gazelle.ai