Heartland Forward Unveils New Leadership & $500M Economic Vision!
Exciting changes are unfolding in Bentonville, as a dynamic think-and-do tank is setting its sights on a monumental goal: generating a whopping $500 million economic impact across America’s heartland by 2030! This bold announcement came on Tuesday, sparking anticipation and enthusiasm about the future of the central U.S.
Stepping into the spotlight, Angie Cooper has been appointed as the new president and chief operating officer, effective January 1. Meanwhile, Ross DeVol, who has skillfully led the organization from its inception, will transition to board chairman while continuing to guide as CEO. With a dedicated team of 23 full-time staff and three interns, they’re ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
The ambitious $500 million initiative will focus on four vital economic pillars: innovation and entrepreneurship, workforce development, health and wellness, and regional competitiveness. To spearhead this initiative, a fresh program has been launched – Pulse of the Heartland – designed to track, communicate, and elevate economic insights and research from the heartland states.
“The heartland is brimming with untapped potential, yet many communities are still grappling with systemic challenges,” said DeVol. “These leadership changes mark the dawn of a transformative era for Heartland Forward, as we continue to ignite innovation and economic growth throughout the region. I couldn’t be prouder of what our team has achieved, laying the foundation for such strategic advancements. Together, we will pursue audacious, high-impact initiatives that will change lives, including the ambitious Pulse of the Heartland.”
In her new capacity, Cooper will take the reins on strategy, public policy, and the flagship Heartland Summit event. The organization is setting out to forge strong partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, and community organizations to hit that impressive $500 million mark.
“As we push forward to boost economic growth in the heart of the country – the third largest economy globally – we need to take bold steps,” Cooper emphasized. “Our commitment to building robust public-private partnerships is crucial to ensuring the heartland leads in cultivating talent through education and entrepreneurship. We must leverage the power of artificial intelligence to gear up for the future while expanding access to affordable, high-speed internet. Healthy communities are foundational to all of this, setting the stage for transformative impacts on lives. We can’t wait to collaborate with our partners to realize our $500 million economic impact goal by 2030!”
Cass Crews, the previous research director of entrepreneurship and innovation, will now take on the role of research director of the talent pipeline, focusing on workforce challenges across the region. Chris West will bolster these efforts with vital data and research support.
Joining the team is Ken Imanak, the new research director for health and wellness, who will tackle pressing issues like maternal health and healthcare access.
“Cass has been instrumental in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, and I’m thrilled to see him channel that passion into our talent pipeline initiatives,” expressed Dave Shideler, chief research officer of Heartland Forward. “Ken’s expertise in health and wellness will be crucial as we broaden our focus on enhancing livelihoods in the heartland. Their contributions will be pivotal to the success of our Pulse of the Heartland initiative and tracking our ambitious $500 million economic impact by introducing new evaluation metrics to our dynamic metropolitan and micropolitan projects.”
This autumn, the nonprofit unveiled several initiatives geared toward artificial intelligence, telehealth, and career readiness for high school students. Additionally, they released a groundbreaking study, in collaboration with the University of Arkansas, highlighting the economic benefits of doubling the number of graduates in engineering and computer science, alongside increased research, development spending, and patents at the university.
