Hartford Economic Development Official Picked For Two Major Boards

MetroHartford Alliance

HARTFORD, CT — A local official involved in Hartford's economic development scene has been picked to serve on two major economic development organizations.

The MetroHartford Alliance recently announced MetroHartford President and Chief Executive Officer David Griggs has been named to the board of directors of two leading economic development organizations: the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE).

Griggs, who has helmed MetroHartford since 2018, is a veteran economic developer with xperience in communities across the U.S. including Buffalo, N.Y., and Minneapolis/Saint Paul, Minn.

At MetroHartford, Griggs has led initiatives such as Hart Lift, a program that has transformed vacant Hartford storefronts into retail and restaurant establishments.

Griggs will serve on IEDC’s board of directors for a two-year term, helping to lead a non-profit organization whose 4,800 members work on creating high-quality jobs, developing vibrant communities, and improving the quality of life in their regions.

“I am thrilled to have David join the IEDC Board of Directors,” said Nathan Ohle, president and CEO, IEDC. “David’s commitment to the economic development profession, career successes and leadership has prepared him well for this new role.”

As a member of the board of directors of ACCE, Griggs will be part of a team of leaders supporting 9,000 professionals who work on behalf of more than 1,300 chambers of commerce.

“We are pleased to welcome David Griggs to the ACCE Board of Directors,” said Sheree Anne Kelly, president and CEO of ACCE. “He joins the organization’s volunteer leadership at a time when the role of chambers of commerce has never been more critical. In these unprecedented times, his expertise will help our volunteer leadership address today’s most pressing challenges, reimagine chambers, and shape the future of our work.”

Griggs said he's ready to serve both groups.

“I am honored to be representing MHA and Greater Hartford on the boards of IEDC and ACCE,” said Griggs. “These organizations play a critical role in driving economic growth and creating opportunities in communities across the nation.

"I look forward to working with my fellow board members and the dedicated staffs at both organizations to advance our shared mission."

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a nonprofit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers, qith more than 4,800 members.

Established in 1914, Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) is an association of 9,000 leaders from 1,300 chambers of commerce, including 93 of the top 100 U.S. metro areas.

The MetroHartford Alliance is an investor-based economic development partnership focused on business development and growth, retaining and attracting jobs and talent in targeted sectors, ensuring a strong urban core, and promoting the Hartford region.

For more information on MetroHartford, click on this link.