Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance President & CEO Ryan McCrady is pleased to announce Abby Powell as its first Director of Business Development. Previously serving as the City of Springfield’s Economic Development Operations Coordinator and TIF Manager in the Office of Planning and Economic Development, Powell brings nearly 15 years of economic development experience to the position.
“Abby’s experience in economic development will be a tremendous asset to our team and we are very excited for her to join us,” said McCrady. “Her robust network of industry connections and personal professionalism will help support businesses in our community and grow our economy.”
At the City, Powell managed municipal TIF districts, with annual budgets of approximately $6 million, and provided guidance and technical assistance to hundreds of projects and businesses. She created innovative neighborhood-development programs such as the homeowner improvement grants in Enos Park and the concept for what is now a successful artist residency program at the Springfield Art Association. She has also served on the executive team of the Illinois Tax Increment Association Board of Directors since 2016.
Powell played an integral role in obtaining $620,000 in state and federal COVID-19 relief grants for small businesses. By streamlining and managing the program’s web portal development and community outreach efforts, 124 local businesses received $5,000 grants through the program.
“Springfield is my family’s home and I want to be part of its continued growth and success – not just for this community but our region as a whole,” said Powell. “This position will allow me to continue working in a new capacity with many of the city and business leaders I have developed valued relationships with and I’m excited for the impact we can make together.”
Powell grew up in Normal, Illinois and received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Monmouth College. Her career path has taken her through all “big three” Lincoln states: Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky, earning her Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University, interning for the Town of Normal, Illinois, and working for the state of Kentucky in environmental regulations.
Abby and her husband, Dathan, live in Springfield with their two children, Finn and Oscar, and one pet rabbit.
The Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance (SSGA) is committed to pursuing the economic prosperity and growth for Sangamon County and the City of Springfield, Illinois. Founded in 2018, the public-private sector partnership is dedicated to advancing economic development efforts in Springfield and Sangamon County. Led by a volunteered, diverse, industry-driven board of directors, SSGA is helping create and market a financially sound community; able to attract new businesses and skilled talent, while retaining the innovative companies and local workforce who already make Sangamon County their home. For more information about SSGA, visit www.ThriveInSPI.org.