If you want to predict the future economic growth of any city, look at what resources are available for aspiring entrepreneurs and businesses with less than five employees.
A coworking space is a good sign. Most early stage startups and small businesses don’t need their own space. Most don’t need to be signing multi-year leases either.
A code school is a good sign. Because giving adults a pathway into technology is a good thing.
A weekly set of events open to the public is a good sign. Whether it’s a One Million Cups event, a monthly happy hour at the local coworking space or something else entirely — bringing like-minded people together on a regular basis is a good thing.
As the cost to start new companies continues to decline, cities — especially across the Midwest — should be constantly rethinking what their local entrepreneurs really need at the earliest stage of their company.