Frank Robinson leads Montgomery’s Department of Economic Development, guiding initiatives that drive inclusive growth and long-term prosperity for the city. Under his leadership, the department focuses on community development, real estate projects, placemaking, retail innovation and housing opportunities. By collaborating with diverse stakeholders and implementing strategic programs, Robinson and his team work to create vibrant, sustainable spaces that enhance the quality of life while attracting investment and positioning Montgomery as a competitive and dynamic city to live, work and play.
Q&A:
Montgomery has seen a lot of momentum lately — what do you think is driving that growth and renewed investment?
There are a number of factors converging at the same time. The Equal Justice Initiative continues to evolve and grow its footprint and impact for our region, sparking growth that affects tourism, jobs and our overall visibility. Our team is energized by this momentum and works collaboratively to ensure these opportunities benefit all residents. Montgomery is telling its story beyond just history and civil rights—while those remain important, our city is full of innovation driven by industrial and manufacturing, logistics and other businesses. Most importantly, there’s a focused desire among our team and partners to do more for our city, with a renewed commitment to quality-of-life efforts that attract people.
What industries or sectors are showing the most promise for the city’s future, and how are you helping attract and retain them?
Industrial and manufacturing remain strong pillars for Montgomery’s economy, with companies like Hyundai, Mobis, Meta and Diageo Bottling leading the way. The presence of Maxwell Air Force Base also positions us to grow in defense and cybersecurity, opening doors for new partnerships and innovation. There’s also significant potential for the entertainment industry to expand here, with investments such as Whitewater and the Equal Justice Initiative proving that unique amenities can thrive in Montgomery. We are implementing complementary strategies to assist with growth. This includes providing incentives for select initiatives and projects to attract or expand businesses. We are also increasing our efforts to market the city to a wider audience. We recognize the need to broaden our reach and reintroduce Montgomery to a wider regional and national audience, showcasing all the city has to offer.
COMING SOON: We are building a new website and social media platform specifically aimed at economic development and business recruitment, which will launch in the first quarter of 2026.
How does your department work with local and regional partners to support economic development efforts?
The Chamber is like a second home for our Economic Development team. We work very closely, as our missions are aligned yet distinct, and our team has weekly meetings with the Chamber to share strategy and resources, problem-solve and implement programs. The County is also a valued partner and collaborator, and our team has worked together on issues such as small business development, housing and homelessness. Colleges are vital to the economic infrastructure of our city, and our team engages with them in many ways—from internships and workforce development to developing corridors for housing and better pedestrian access. We recognize that economic vitality and future growth depend on even stronger partnerships with well-resourced colleges and universities, and our team is committed to building those relationships. We want to further our relationship with colleges and universities, as well as other partners like Leadership Montgomery, to retain young talent after graduation—so they will consider Montgomery as a more viable option and not feel compelled to leave for other cities.
How does your team make sure that progress benefits the whole community?
Our team is always asking the questions that matter most—whether from the perspective of someone who already calls Montgomery home or someone considering making Montgomery their new home. For residents, we ask: Where will my kids go to school? Do I have access to good doctors and hospitals? Can I take a walk in a good park? What amenities can I or my family enjoy when I am not working? For prospective residents, we consider: What will life be like if I move here? Will my family feel welcomed and supported? Are there opportunities for growth, recreation and connection? These questions guide our work and ensure we stay focused on what truly matters to our community, both now and in the future. By working collaboratively and keeping these questions at the forefront, our team ensures that economic growth and quality of life go hand in hand. Wherever a city is socially and economically healthy, the economy can grow and flourish.
Looking ahead, what are your top priorities or goals for Montgomery’s economic future?
As a regional hub, our priorities impact not just our city and county, but the entire region. Our team is prioritizing housing—affordable, workforce, senior and market rate—as well as multifamily and mixed-use developments. Small business development remains a main focus, as it’s the lifeline of our economy. We’re also working together to recruit midsize businesses and regional headquarters, close the gap on food deserts and activate downtown and the riverfront for more attractions and city living options. A better working relationship with MGM Airport to expand their cargo and passenger infrastructure for growth for tourism, businesses and other commerce.
What do you see as the city’s biggest opportunities and challenges over the next few years?
We must ensure that residents, visitors and everyone see and believe in Montgomery’s momentum. Helping the city pivot in how it collectively talks about itself is one of the key factors that will enable the change we need. The attitude and narrative we share as a community have the power to shape our future; when we speak positively and confidently about Montgomery, we lay the foundation for growth and transformation. The city is poised to expand its impact as a logistics hub with the completion of the inland port, rail system and airport cargo expansion. Our team is leveraging partnerships with Maxwell Air Force Base to grow in defense contracting, cybersecurity, logistics and tourism, and we’re working together to attract and retain more people by enhancing jobs, housing and amenities.
“I’ve been involved in economic development in some form all my life, driven by a combination of my love of data, history and research. My visionary side, my compassion for serving people and my faith allow me to take risks. The most rewarding part is working alongside such a talented and passionate team, seeing our collective efforts make a real difference for Montgomery. When I was recruited for this role, the Mayor and City had ambitious goals, and I was inspired to join a team that’s committed to making those goals a reality.”
Just for FUN:
What business book or podcast do you recommend?
Idea Cast by Harvard Business Review for insightful business discussions, Earn Your Leisure for financial literacy and entrepreneurship, and locally, Off the Cuff for perspectives relevant to our community.
If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be and why?
Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. I’d love to hear their perspectives on unity and overcoming division, and I think their insights could help us write a new narrative for our community in the divisive world we are currently navigating.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
I enjoy DJing and creating mixes, golfing, traveling, reading and learning new things.
