Executive Director Russ Yelton Touts WMED's Regional Projects For AZ Congressional Leaders
- Greg Bullock
- Apr 24
- 3 min read
Washington D.C. Visit Highlighted Organization’s Leadership in Driving Economic Growth for Northern Arizona
Russ Yelton, Executive Director of White Mountain Economic Development (WMED), recently met with staff from U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly, and U.S. Representative Eli Crane’s offices—all from Arizona—to discuss WMED’s rapidly growing portfolio of economic development projects in Northern Arizona. Yelton was part of a cohort that visited Washington D.C. in March to meet with these congressional leaders in order to highlight the important initiatives that are helping to strengthen local economies and facilitate meaningful job creation throughout the region.
The conversation focused on a series of WMED projects aimed at advancing clean energy manufacturing, enhancing food-centered entrepreneurship, and nurturing early-stage business development throughout the region. These efforts are designed to support rural innovation while contributing to national goals of building a stronger, more self-reliant economy.
“It was an honor to share the important work happening in Northern Arizona with our Representatives offices,” said Yelton. “Our region is proof that strategic investment in rural communities creates real, lasting impact—from launching small businesses to building tomorrow’s workforce. Their support reinforces how these efforts can serve as a model for similar communities nationwide.”
Among the programs discussed:
Clean Energy & Manufacturing Expansion: WMED was recently selected for a Phase 2 “MAKE IT” Prize from the U.S. Department of Energy, which supports the development of a clean energy manufacturing roadmap in the White Mountains region. The plan will help attract sustainable industry, reduce energy costs, and create new economic opportunities in rural Arizona.
Winslow Business Incubator: Building on the momentum and support of their recent feasibility study, WMED has outlined their vision for a full-service business incubator in Winslow. The proposed facility would include a shared kitchen for food entrepreneurs, along with critical training and mentorship to launch and scale their ventures—building a foundation for long-term economic growth in the area.
Show Low Pre-Incubation Program: The City of Show Low has approved a new partnership with WMED to launch a pre-incubation program. In addition to early-stage guidance, resources, and programming, the program will provide access to kitchen space around Show Low for food entrepreneurs and further develop technical skills and workforce pipelines for construction-based businesses. This will also lead to creation of a physical incubator space in Show Low for these emerging businesses.
Northern Arizona Food Alliance: With incredible energy behind food-based entrepreneurship in Northern Arizona, WMED is also spearheading the formation of the Northern Arizona Food Alliance—a collaborative partnership aimed at bringing together key groups that will help strengthen the local food economy and better serve food-based entrepreneurs.
Together, these efforts reflect WMED’s mission to fuel sustainable economic development by investing in entrepreneurship, workforce development, and sector-specific growth opportunities that meet both local needs and national priorities.
“From clean energy to food innovation, our programs are designed to uplift local talent and spark long-term economic vitality,” Yelton added. “We’re proud to work alongside our federal partners to ensure that rural communities have a seat at the table in shaping the future of American industry.”
The meetings in Washington D.C. underscore WMED’s commitment to collaboration at all levels of government and its role as a champion for inclusive, community-driven development throughout Northern Arizona and beyond.
For more information on WMED and its current initiatives, visit wmedev.org.