Like so many of the Community Economic Partners team, Erik has had a multi-dimensional career that has included an economic growth corporation, Chamber of Commerce, business financial services, Main Street, and local initiatives support. Throughout his career, he has partnered with communities and organizations to design and implement practical, results-driven strategies that spark economic activity and enhance quality of life. His work integrates strategic planning, market analysis, community engagement, and destination marketing to create clear paths toward revitalization and long-term sustainability.
As the Director of Illinois Main Street, Erik helped coordinate statewide efforts to support Main Street communities through networking, educational, and programmatic activities. Working with Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) in Peoria, he advanced neighborhood redevelopment and small business initiatives across central Illinois. He has helped attract millions of dollars in public and private investment, launched entrepreneurship programs, and developed commerce-driven event strategies that drive measurable results. In fall 2016, Erik partnered with 353 Court to complete a Real Estate Report for the City of Havana and was subsequently retained for implementation of the strategy that included building stabilization, small business assistance, and creative placemaking. The results included $2,500,000 investment into downtown real estate, 14 new businesses opening, and a two-block streetscape restructuring.
Education
- Bachelor of Business, Western Illinois University
- International Business and Marketing, Noordelijke Hogeschool Leeuwarden
Memberships, Certifications, Recognition
- Muscatine Community Improvement Action Team
- City of Rock Island Arts Advisory Committee
- City of Pekin Planning Commission
- City of Pekin Zoning Board of Approvals
- Co-Founder/President Bike Peoria
- Board Member: Start Up Peoria
- Board Member: Central Illinois Landmarks Foundation
- Board Member: Pekin Main Street
- Impact HUB Peoria Leadership Team
- Pekin Chamber of Commerce