Economic Development is focused on creating a vibrant community with sustainable, long-term, healthy, economic growth. The City of Fremont’s Economic Development team accomplishes this with a robust business retention and expansion work plan. We’ve mentioned before that 43% of new jobs come from the expansion of existing companies. That’s why we make it a priority to routinely visit Fremont-based companies to get a good feel for their immediate, near-term and long-term needs.

This year we expanded our business appreciation visits to include neighborhood businesses districts, allowing us to triple the number of total visits from 40+ to 150 — the vast majority being first-time visits. Along the way we’ve collected stories and personal anecdotes that will help us refine our ongoing strategy and understanding of the local business climate, supply chain relationships and industry trends. Here are four observations from this year’s crop.

1. Fremont’s manufacturing supply chain is robust, and is becoming more so thanks to anchor companies such as Tesla. For example, a mile from Tesla’s manufacturing floor, Asteelflash, a global EMS, had the depth of experience and interest to co-produce circuit boards with Tesla. The proximity made it easy for Tesla and Asteelflash’s engineering teams to collaborate and develop the circuit boards. The end result was reduction in production time and a stronger local supply chain. In May 2013, Asteelflash celebrated a major milestone, the delivery of 1 million printed circuit boards to Tesla.

2. 2014 is the year of “energy storage” and Fremont cleantech companies are leading the way. In the age of smart grids and increased renewable energy generation is a primary focus of the energy discussion. Local cleantech companies like Enovix, Imergy, Tenergy and Leyden are exploring new paradigms for lithium-ion batteries, micro-grid energy storage, energy R&D, and alkaline battery storage. What we love is that this cluster has the potential to provide Fremont’s advanced manufacturers with access to reliable and local clean energy solutions.

3. Fremont’s Lifesciences companies are changing drug delivery systems, producing new innovative medical devices, and going public! For example, Zyomyx is manufacturing an HIV testing device to help the treatment and spread of AIDS in Africa. Last month, Ardelyx and Zosano filed initial public offerings to raise a combined $126 million dollars. The two companies are manufacturing drugs to treat metabolic diseases and a needless patch for the delivery of insulin for diabetics respectively.

4. Fremont is changing from a suburb to strategically urban. Our business districts and downtown want more pedestrian traffic. After a few difficult years, Fremont’s small business districts have turned the corner from the recession and are seeking growth and adapting to new shopping patterns and service delivery models. Our business district visits revealed that our small businesses and larger companies want the amenities within walking distance. That is why small technology company SchmartBoard located their office in Centerville. They want to be in the heart of it all.

While these visits help us get a pulse read of the local economy, the ultimate goal is to continue dialogue and engage with businesses. During the meetings, we share information on Employment Training Panel Funds, Industrial Development Bond Funds, and other incentive programs. Additionally, we provide linkages to various technical assistance organizations such as Manex, and the Alameda County Workforce Investment Board. Collectively, these programs can help companies reduce costs and gain efficiencies.

Our 2014-15 business appreciation efforts are already underway. To schedule your visit, contact Kim Marshall at Kmarshall@fremont.gov

Asteelflash presenting a plaque to Tesla for to commemorate the 1 Million printed circuit board delivered to Tesla.