Growing economic gardening.

• Position: TRENDS AND TRANSITIONS - Small business

Tough fiscal times and a focus on local small business development have some states looking at alternatives to traditional economic development programs. One approach receiving renewed attention is economic gardening-encouraging local business growth through greater access to market information.

When most people hear "economic development," they probably think of tax abatements and other financial assistance that legislators and governors use to lure large corporations, sometimes called "economic hunting," into their state. The ongoing fiscal squeeze, however, may constrain the states' use of this strategy in the near future. At the same time, states are eager to do something to spur their economies and create jobs.

Economic gardening provides local businesses already working in the state with market intelligence historically available only to large corporations. These businesses receive sophisticated reports on prices, industries, market trends, consumer behavior and preferences, as well as the location and performance of their competitors. This information, along with business strategy and mentor support, allows businesses to grow and expand their operations.

The first, and...