A generation ago in the mid-1990s, a cadre of business and civic leaders from Greater Springfield confronted a dim outlook for the Western Massachusetts economy. It proved a pivotal moment to rally the region’s cities and towns to rise together for collective success.

The vision set out in 1996 by the founders of the Economic Development Council of Western Massachusetts was to harness their collective energy to create a robust regional economy by spurring redevelopment, supporting investment and attracting new industry. In short, their efforts looked to make our region a better place to work, live and play.