How is technology changing the way communities compete for investment and talent?

In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise speaks with Matt Szuhaj, EVP of Strategic Development Group, to explore more than three decades of change in site selection and economic development.

Drawing on 30 years of experience, Matt shares how location strategy has evolved from a focus on cost and infrastructure to a more complex evaluation of talent, quality of life, community identity, and long-term competitiveness.

A major focus of the conversation is artificial intelligence and its growing influence on economic development. Matt explains how AI is accelerating access to information and reshaping decision-making, while emphasizing that human judgment, experience, and intuition remain essential.

The discussion also explores how communities can better position themselves in an AI-driven world through strong branding, accurate data, and proactive storytelling. For rural communities, emerging technologies and remote work trends may create new opportunities to attract residents, businesses, and investment.

Throughout the episode, Matt highlights the importance of trust, credibility, and first impressions—factors that continue to play a critical role in site selection despite advances in technology.

A key takeaway? Technology may change the tools, but successful economic development still depends on strong communities, clear messaging, and trusted relationships.

Key Takeaways

AI is transforming how information is gathered and analyzed
Human experience and intuition remain critical in decision-making
Community branding is increasingly important in the AI era
Rural communities have new opportunities through remote work and technology
Trust and credibility continue to influence site selection decisions
Strong data and storytelling help communities stand out

Key Topics Covered

Evolution of location strategy over 30 years
AI and economic development decision-making
Community branding and character of life
Rural communities and remote work opportunities
Data, marketing, and investment attraction
Trust and first impressions in site selection

Sound Bites

"AI accelerates access to information."
"AI doesn't have intuition or experience."
"Control your narrative in the AI age."