Real Results, Real Economic Development Case Studies
Welcome to Golden Shovel’s Case Studies hub—where strategy meets impact. This is your destination to see how empowered economic developers are transforming their communities with Golden Shovel’s support. From attraction initiatives and BR&E programs to digital marketing, branding, and targeted outreach, these stories showcase how communities are successfully attracting talent, driving business investment, and building resilient local economies.
Each case study highlights the unique challenges our clients faced, the strategic solutions we developed together, and the measurable outcomes that followed—proving that with the right tools and guidance, meaningful change is not just possible, it’s happening.
Looking to bring new energy and opportunity to your community? Enter your information to receive access to our Case Studies library where you can discover best practices, read about IEDC award-winning campaigns, and be inspired to create positive change in your community.
“We’ve attracted housing developers and laid a foundation for sustainable growth,” said Justin Sommer, Executive Director of Preble County Development Partnership. “And perhaps most importantly, we’re seeing a mindset shift—a belief that Preble County’s best days are ahead.”
“Our website project strikes a rare balance between substance and style. We didn’t sacrifice form for function or vice versa—we aligned both to create a seamless experience that supports real decision-making,” said Shirar O’Connor, Vice President of Marketing, AdvanceCT.
“We won an IEDC Gold Award for our economic development website. Even more importantly, the site has helped us to attract businesses and developers to Elgin, Texas,” said Kaley Frye, Interim Director of Elgin Economic Development Corporation.