Public investments and policies might originate in Washington, but implementation and delivery is inherently local. These investments and policies are realized through the collaboration that happens daily in local networks. My work focuses on how those networks operate, leverage federal policies, and can innovate for impact. At the Nowak Lab, by engaging with local practitioners, thought leaders, and policymakers we seek to understand dynamic trends and challenges, identify innovative solutions, and develop strategies to foster inclusive and sustainable growth. Economic development is not a singular topic but rather the result of complex, interdependent relationships between a number of factors. Despite this fact, policy discussions often happen in silos - if you're working in this space too, let's connect and see how we can tackle these challenges together.