Our approach
Forest Lakes Partners, LLC (FLP) is a professional consulting practice specializing in community and economic development, business-to-business (B2B) networking, government relations, and real estate consulting within the Northeast Ohio and Upstate New York regions. FLP's goal is to strengthen, support and augment the competencies of its partner organizations in a collaborative and meaningful way.
Experience you can rely on
With nearly 40 years of experience in economic development and business growth, Rick Rebadow has been a trusted leader in attracting high impact public/private investment which has led to the creation and retention of thousands of jobs. His proven track record of strategic partnerships and industry expertise makes him a reliable force in driving economic success.
Our services
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Economic and Community Development
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Government Relations and Advocacy
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Project Management
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Business to Business Networking
Meet Rick
Rick Rebadow brings nearly four decades of expertise in economic development, business growth, and strategic partnerships. As Vice President of Business Development for CAM, Inc, Rick elevated the company’s market presence while strengthening relationships with industry leaders, public officials, and corporate partners. Previously, as Executive Vice President and COO of the Greater Akron Chamber, he led and contributed to over 180 economic development projects with major corporations like Goodyear, Bridgestone, and Lockheed Martin, contributing to $3.5 billion in capital investment. Rick championed the certification of the Chamber through the International Economic Development Council to become an Accredited Economic Development Organization. The first and only accredited economic development organization in the state of Ohio. The Chamber consistently ranked in the top 10 in the country for nearly a decade. Through his collaborative efforts, he led and supported 26 million square feet of commercial development, and the creation or retention of over 70,000 jobs. Rick has also held key roles at New York State Electric & Gas Corporation, Empire State Development Corporation, and the Town of Amherst Industrial Development Agency. A recognized leader in his field, he holds a BA and MPA from Canisius University and resides in Green, Ohio, with his wife, Elizabeth.
Economic, Community, and Business Development
FLP engages with municipal, regulatory, not-for-profit, and for-profit clients to leverage, promote, and implement business, community, and economic initiatives.
Develop and manage economic development, Brownfield redevelopment, and community revitalization projects.
Identify and facilitate economic development grants and reimbursement funding.
Participate in community meetings/events and industry trade shows.
Coordinate domestic and foreign trade delegation visits and missions.
Conduct area familiarization tours and proactive business visitations.
Liaison with regional industry and economic development agency leaders.
Promote clients via print advertising and social media outlets.
Project Management
Aligns with real estate companies, developers, and regional economic development agencies to guide projects from initial planning to final design/development phase.
Qualify prospective leads; analyze market data; provide lead referrals.
Participate in site selection / real estate sales / leasing.
Identify/negotiate funding opportunities (tax incentive packages, tax credits, government grants, loans).
Serve as primary liaison with involved regulatory and public sector agencies.
Address zoning and Planning Commission requirements.
Assist with government agency approval.
Advocacy and Lobbying
Our goal is to work alongside with clients to:
Attend and provide support during municipal public hearings.
Lobby local, state, and federal officials and respective organizations.
Coordinate delegation visits to Washington and Columbus.
