Get to know City of Sherwood Economic Development Manager Erik Adair as he shares his thoughts on Economic Development in Sherwood:
Building Stronger Businesses, A Stronger Sherwood
With 24 years of experience in government, trade, business, and economic development—both in the U.S. and internationally—I’ve learned that economic development is about people as much as it is about business.
At the heart of my approach is listening, understanding, and connecting. Every business, whether a startup or a major employer, has unique needs and challenges. I’m driven by helping them find the resources, networks, and support that can truly move the needle—whether that’s navigating City Hall, identifying funding opportunities, or making the right industry connections.
I want to be a champion for businesses in Sherwood, ensuring that our city is a place where companies don’t just operate—they thrive. Whether a business has 500 employees or just one, my goal is the same: to support their success. I’m also driven to help diversify our tax base, create new jobs, and make Sherwood an even more vibrant place to live and work.
I often find myself drawn to businesses with a problem to solve—whether it’s a growth challenge, workforce needs, or simply cutting through red tape. I see my role as a liaison between the business community and the city, making sure we’re communicating effectively and providing real, actionable support.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep building relationships, connecting businesses to resources, and working alongside Sherwood’s incredible business community. If you're a business owner or entrepreneur in Sherwood, I’d love to connect and learn how we can grow together.
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