Lewis-Burke has worked closely with a major research university on its partnership with other universities and a large corporation to build an Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Zone.

The project combines university-led advanced manufacturing research, community college-led workforce training, and industry-led factories to spur economic development, commercialization, and manufacturing innovation in a depressed rural region.

Lewis-Burke provided strategic advice to the group on federal funding opportunities and alignment of the Zone with emerging priorities. Lewis-Burke also arranged for key members of the university’s congressional delegation to be briefed on the partnership and secured the attendance of a member of Congress at the Zone’s groundbreaking.

In addition, Lewis-Burke helped facilitate a meeting of key representatives of the partnership with over 30 agency and White House officials. This meeting provided valuable contacts across the government as the Zone sought federal support.