Economic Development Advisory By

Susanna Taft Illig

I am a community and economic development consultant with a deep-rooted passion for building stronger cities and organizations. Growing up in downtown Indianapolis, I saw firsthand how places evolve and thrive when people invest in their potential.

READ MY STORY

The name Valo (VAL-oh) is derived from two words that mean light and value—themes that represent my work.

Through strategic advisory, economic development expertise, and operational excellence, I help clients illuminate opportunities and create a lasting impact in their community.

Economic Development

I help cities, economic development organizations, and civic leaders craft strategies that drive inclusive growth, attract investment, and strengthen communities.

Strategy Development
Business Attraction, Retention, and Expansion Planning
Public-Private Partnership Structuring
Policy Analysis and Recommendations
Mapping & Inventory Analysis

Real Estate & Redevelopment

Whether revitalizing underutilized properties or shaping large-scale master developments, I provide strategic insight and hands-on execution to real estate clients.

Site Selection and Feasibility Analysis
Adaptive Reuse and Redevelopment Strategy
Financial Modeling and Incentive Structuring
Small-Scale Rehab and Development Advisory

Operations & Organizational Development

I help organizations launch, refine, and scale their initiatives by designing effective workflows, building strong teams, and implementing practical solutions.

Structuring and Launching New Initiatives, Programs, and Organizations
Workflow Design and Process Improvement
Interim Leadership and Strategic Advisory Support
Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Development

The Valo star represents the core principles of my work.

A Guiding Light

I help organizations and communities navigate complexity and illuminate opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed.

The Heart of a Place

My work is deeply rooted in place-based impact. I believe that every city, district, and organization has unique assets that can be leveraged for growth.