Strategic Consulting in inclusive economic development

If we want to build equitable, inclusive cities, we need to reimagine our approach.

Equitable Cities Consulting, a certified woman-owned enterprise, provides strategic advisory services to governments, nonprofits and the private sector related to economic development that leads to more equitable cities. Equitable Cities Consulting offers strategic advisory services, research, stakeholder engagement, white paper development, and policy and program implementation support.

Reimagining a Structural Approach

Traditional thinking around urban economic development has focused on aggregated growth, prioritizing metrics such as population increase, industry proliferation and job creation. While these are important metrics, those involved in economic development efforts throughout the globe are reckoning with the fact that past efforts have rarely led to inclusive prosperity. With the pandemic exacerbating an already growing wealth chasm, cities, non-profits and companies are seeking new approaches and answers to shaping a more equitable, just and inclusive society. Inclusive economic growth requires intentional, community-informed and equity-focused methodologies.

Hands-On Experience in Economic Development

The team at Equitable Cities Consulting brings extensive experience in leading economic development work, focused on small business, entrepreneurship, neighbor- hood revitalization, and workforce development, as well as business attraction and retention on an international scale. Sylvie Gallier Howard, founder of Equitable Cities Consulting, previously led the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Commerce, facing every form of challenge at significant scale, including those brought on by the recent pandemic, and spearheaded the development of an inclusive growth strategy and COVID-19 economic recovery planning for the city. Bringing nearly a decade of experience in senior city government roles, combined with years of nonprofit executive leadership and consulting experience in community economic development, Sylvie offers a wealth of knowledge and the can-do spirit required for the bold, demanding undertaking of building cities that will work for all of their residents.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach for any organization or city. Equitable Cities Consulting will be your partner in developing an inclusive process, identifying unique assets and opportunities, and assisting you in shaping the best approach and path forward to tackling inequalities and fostering inclusive economic growth.

“Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.”

– Jane Jacobs