A group of Akron leaders revealed a new plan for economic development at a special Akron Roundtable event Monday. A panel of community leaders told the crowd that too many people have to leave Akron to get to work.
Their new initiative, , will focus on increasing job opportunities locally and improving collaboration. A study they conducted shows that Akron鈥檚 economy is too traditional and needs to promote more entrepreneurship and innovation.
Steve Millard heads the . He said the study also found that opportunities in Akron are limited for the black population.
鈥淚f we can find a way to create a few more jobs to people that may not otherwise have access to them, create a little bit more of a lift in income and employment in certain parts of community that aren鈥檛 getting that lift, I think that will go a long way in ensuring that rising tide lifts all boats,鈥� he said.
Millard said while challenges abound, he sees a momentum in the region that should keep Akron moving forward.