What is the Corridor of Commerce?
Join Us for CEAD's 3rd Annual Mid-Summer Symposium
Over the years, I have become more fascinated with regional and economic development. It is an opportunity to use my expertise in economics to help influence the growth of the city and region I live in. It feels good to contribute and help.
It is no secret that every city is competing for people and for businesses to help develop a thriving economy. What differs between cities is their approach to competition and the incentives they offer. Whether it is tax incentives, amenities, or access to resources, firms and people want to locate in cities that support them.
Living in the Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky region, it is interesting to observe how the tri-state area, with its multiple jurisdictions, organizes and comes together to make the region an attractive hub. Attracting businesses and people to the region requires considerable effort and long-term planning. It’s a tough job, but an important one.
Corridor of Commerce
One example of these long-term plans is the strategic vision of a Corridor of Commerce. The Corridor of Commerce is a geographic region that is connected, and Northern Kentucky sits at its center. This vision provides a framework for all stakeholders to collaborate in attracting firms, capital, and talent.
“The Corridor of Commerce is a collection of high-quality assets within 100 miles of Cincinnati"…”
With that said, there is still a lot of work to be done to make this vision a reality. That is why this year, the Center for Economic Analysis and Development (CEAD) is hosting a Midsummer Symposium to share findings from its latest shift-share and cluster identification analysis, highlighting regional strengths and opportunities for growth.
I would love to have you join us and engage in this discussion, learning more about the work we are doing to provide economic expertise that supports our regional economic development.
Event Details:
Title: Corridor of Commerce
Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 AM
Location: NKU Student Union, Room 107BC
As Associate Dean at the Haile College of Business, I have the privilege of working closely with Janet Harrah, Executive Director of CEAD, and witnessing firsthand the exceptional work she leads in regional and economic development research. Her dedication to understanding and strengthening our economic landscape continues to impress and inspire our entire community.
This year's symposium showcases the kind of impactful research that defines our mission at the Haile College of Business. I'm particularly excited to highlight the contributions of our Haile Research Lab student and Fellow, Dylan Fogt, who has been an absolute superstar in supporting this critical work. Dylan's involvement exemplifies how our students engage in meaningful research that directly benefits our region.
To Our Current and Alumni Fellows
Your presence would make this event even more meaningful. This annual event has turned into a reunion of sorts and an opportunity for us to network. Please not only attend but also help amplify this invitation within your organizations and professional circles. Your perspectives and continued engagement strengthen the connections between our academic work and real-world application.
I look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new colleagues who share our passion for regional economic growth and development.
Register for the event here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annual-mid-summer-symposium-corridor-of-commerce-tickets-1334012169309
Thank you to our sponsor: OneNKY Alliance
I hope to see you all there,
-Dr. A
Dr. Abdullah Al Bahrani is a Professor of Economics and Associate Dean at Northern Kentucky University’s Haile College of Business. His newsletter covers the personal side of economics and finance. If you are new here, subscribe and receive his commentary on the economy in your inbox.
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That sounds like an interesting perspective. I'm curious if you've gotten a chance to read Triumph of the City yet? You may also enjoy Matthew Kahn's Unlocking the Potential of Post-Industrial Cities.
Great news letter. These are activities that more cities and universities in virginia could stand to offer.