Della Rucker has been working on practical systems to build healthy local economies in the emerging era for more than 20 years. Della has designed systems for accelerating economic revitalization, growing healthy small businesses, fostering intelligent land use and creating inclusive public engagement. Della is one of fewer than 10 persons in the US to hold the industry-standard professional certifications in both planning (AICP) and economic development (CEcD).
Della is the co-founder of Econogy, a groundbreaking company that accelerates innovation in businesses, organizations and communities. Econogy leverages unexpected sources of new solutions– including university students, young professionals and community residents — to uncover workable solutions to tough problems that conventional approaches aren’t solving. Econogy uses a detailed team recruitment/training and project management system to help this Talent deliver on their potential. By blending high-quality management with untapped potential, Econogy makes geniunely new solutions available to everyone.
Della also leads the Wise Economy Workshop consulting practice. Prior to starting Wise Economy Workshop, Della served as National Lead for Economic Development for Jacobs Engineering Group, led development of over 50 community plans, and operated a historic preservation consulting firm.
Della is the author of several books, including The Local Economy Revolution: What’s Changed and How You Can Help, Crowdsourcing Wisdom and Everybody Innovates Here, as well as over a hundred shorter pieces on multiple platforms and outlets.
An energetic speaker known for hands-on sessions that get attendees moving, laughing and thinking, Della has given more than 150 keynotes, workshops and trainings on topics ranging from parking infill to emerging economic trends.
Specialties include: Public Participation, Online Public Engagement, Large Group Decision-Making, Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Economic Development, Urban Planning, Community Development, Historic Preservation, Project Management, Civic Tech.
Everybody Innovates Here 