Fostering Economic Growth Through Innovation and Technology

Bo Martinez, Director of the Long Beach Department of Economic Development & Opportunity, City of Long Beach

Bo Martinez is an economic development professional with extensive experience leading major cities like Miami Beach, Denver and Phoenix. Recognized as one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers, he currently drives economic growth by overseeing five key bureaus in the City of Long Beach.

In an interview with Government CIO Outlook, Martinez discussed the strategies driving economic development, the key initiatives for growth and the role played by technology in shaping these efforts.

Strategies for Economic Development

I oversee the economic development efforts for the City of Long Beach by focusing on diverse industry sectors to drive long-term growth. We promote business expansion by prioritizing the retention of existing businesses while attracting both small business and large-scale industries. Also, I oversee five bureaus including workforce development, real estate development, waterfront development business operations and business development. That includes everything along the waterfront, from the arena to the convention center and our future outdoor amphitheater overlooking the downtown waterfront to Space Beach.

Our creative and innovative approaches generate revenues to provide essential City services and amenities for residents, visitors and businesses in the city. Collaborating with both public and private companies is central to these efforts. Also, I work with people across all age groups and socio-economic backgrounds and ensure that everyone benefits from inclusive and economic growth.

Grow Long Beach Initiative

Grow Long Beach is an initiative designed to drive economic growth by targeting six key industry sectors.

Aerospace and aviation is one of the major industries, with Space Beach emerging as the fastest-growing aerospace and aviation ecosystem in the country. As part of workforce development, the City offers a Space Beach Camp for youth to expose them to the field of aerospace and aviation. We offer a Long Beach Public Service Corps Program  for university students interested in government sector careers. We also run a fire fellowship program to introduce young adults to careers in public safety.

Another key area is transportation and logistics, where we work closely with the Port of Long Beach, the second busiest port in the U.S., the global gateway for logistics, international businesses and investments.

“We deliver ease, speed and predictability in the market through innovative, technology-driven processes and partnerships.”

The healthcare and wellness industry focuses on biotechnology and life sciences to drive innovation. Education is also a key priority, working with K-12, community college and universities to connect students to high-quality jobs in the targeted industry  sectors. The initiative also supports small and big businesses, software industries, tourism, hospitality and entertainment.

Role of Technology and Innovation

Technology is no longer separate from business, and it plays a major role in all the companies that we work with. For Instance, in Space Beach, they are building next generation satellites, space stations, 3D rockets and commercial airlines.

We deliver speed and predictability in the market through innovative, technology-driven processes. The City’s reputation as the most business-friendly in LA County is supported by virtual business interactions that cater to the global marketplace. Also, artificial intelligence is integrated into daily operations, including streamlining the permitting process to simplify business activities.

Technology-driven Programs for Digital Inclusion and Growth

Managing a city requires alignment across many stakeholders. We focus on reducing the digital divide, especially in communities that have faced barriers to opportunity and lack Internet access or technology. We offer programs that teach residents how to use the Internet and artificial intelligence. At the end of some training programs, participants receive a free laptop.

Our award-winning Level Up LB: Extreme Business Makeover Program provides small businesses with the tools to grow through technology, social media and Internet sales. Participants receive training and a $10,000 grant to reinvest in their business based on a plan developed during an eight-week course.

Advice for Aspiring Economic Development Professionals

Economic developers must be industry literate. We need strong public-private partnerships that connect government, academia and industry. We must work across age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds because inclusive growth matters.

We must also prepare for automation, artificial intelligence and evolving technologies that will change how we live and work. Infrastructure matters, including digital access, high-speed Internet and communication systems. Integrating technology into economic development and civic life is essential for future success.

Aerospace

Logistics

Entertainment

Healthcare

Biotechnology