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Opportunities and Challenges: In order to achieve the goals previously identified, several opportunities and challenges were identified in order to inform future action steps. Opportunities: The top three growth industries in Washington County between 2013 and 2015 are: 1) Health Care Services, 2) Wood Products Manufacturing and 3) Professional and Technical Services. An opportunity exists to research and seek to attract complementary businesses like suppliers, vendors or large customers of the existing growing industry sectors in Washington County. Small businesses are vital to Washington County's economy. 86% of the Washington County businesses have less than 20 employees. Washington County is home to 17,847 self-employed businesses or "non -employers" in 2014 (defined as businesses without employees that are subject to federal income tax). An opportunity exists to support and grow the existing businesses and business owners. Washington County has a significant number of major transportation corridors including: 1-35, 1-94, 1-694, 1-494, US Highway 8, 10 & 61, MN Highway 5, 36, 95, 96, 97, 120 and 244. Additionally, Washington County has transit corridors including the Rush Line Corridor, the Gateway Corridor and the Red Rock Corridor. An opportunity exists to participate in transit and transportation corridor planning efforts and to advocate for state and federal transportation and transit investments in Washington County. Washington County has a highly -valued quality of life, rich diverse communities and many assets and amenities. An opportunity exists to market and promote these amenities to site selectors and businesses looking to expand or relocate. Washington County has a growing population and a growing labor force. An opportunity exists to leverage the quality of this growing labor force to attract new business development. Challenges: In order to leverage the opportunities cited above into new tax base and jobs, an array of technical and financial services should be developed. Currently, businesses who are searching for sites may not know about the assets and advantages of locating in Washington County. A county wide "business brand" that is cohesive, strong, and unique will help Washington County stand out to businesses, in addition to a robust spectrum of promotion tools. The CDA Economic Development Director can serve as a critical point of contact for referral to opportunities in communities. Technical and financial resources for small businesses is limited compared to services in other counties. The "Open to Business" program is operating communities in 6 counties. n