Kevin Malecek is the Director of Economic Development and International Trade for the City of Mentor, Ohio, where he leads business attraction, retention, and expansion efforts both domestically and internationally. With a diverse background in government, business, and nonprofit sectors, he has fostered international partnerships with the UK, Ireland, and Germany. Previously, he served as President and CEO of the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce and held leadership roles in higher education and county government. Through his work at Mentor Means Business, Kevin continues to drive strategic growth, positioning Mentor as a hub for global investment.

Mentor, Ohio, is emerging as a hub for local and international business growth. With a diverse economy spanning manufacturing, retail, and professional services, the city offers a strong foundation for businesses to thrive. How can economic development leaders attract foreign investment while supporting local businesses?

Kevin Malecek, an economic development professional, shares how Mentor, Ohio, has become a beacon for domestic and foreign investments. Through strategic initiatives, Mentor has fostered partnerships with companies in the UK and Ireland, resulting in direct investments and job creation. By focusing on relationship-building and offering a unique blend of low operation costs and a vibrant economy, the city ensures a smooth transition for organizations looking to establish a US presence. Kevin highlights the challenges and opportunities facing the city’s local businesses, emphasizing the importance of workforce development, automation, and AI in shaping future growth. He outlines the resources available to businesses in Mentor, including initiatives like trade missions, partnerships with the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce, and financial incentives for expansion.

In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni sits down with Kevin Malecek, the Director of Economic Development and International Trade for the City of Mentor, Ohio, to discuss business growth and investment strategies. Kevin shares his unconventional career journey and how Mentor fosters foreign investment by building strong relationships with international businesses and offering personalized support to companies looking to expand into the US.