By Michael C. Randle Economic development job- and investment-generating project activity has never been better than in 2026 in the South, the world’s third largest economy. To date, the South has averaged 200 big buffalo announcements each quarter in 2026 for a total of 601 through three quarters.  The 34-year-old SB&D 100, which is our […]

Big River Steel Works broke ground in November on a $1.9 billion direct reduced iron (DRI) plant at its Big River Steel Works complex in Mississippi County, Ark. The project is part of Nippon Steel’s broader $11 billion U.S. investment commitment.  Japan-based Nippon Steel acquired U.S. Steel on June 18, 2025, buying 100 percent of […]

Economic development projects have become increasingly complex, requiring sophisticated planning, strategic coordination among stakeholders, and a deep understanding of regulatory, infrastructure, financing, and community considerations.  From advanced manufacturing facilities and industrial developments to energy investments, logistics hubs, mixed-use projects, technology infrastructure, and other transformational initiatives, successful projects require advisors who understand how business objectives and […]