The Institute for Economic Development’s diverse programs facilitate economic, community and business development at the local, regional and national level. Click on a specific program for detailed information.
Ernest Gerlach has over 20 years of combined experience in economic, community and business development, public policy research, human resource development, workforce planning and social science research. From 1990 to 2008 he managed the Center for Economic Development at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). The Center provided technical, capacity building and research support to local governments, communities, nonprofits and economic development corporations throughout South Texas and the Border Region. Today he coordinates the Rural Business Program (RBP) through the South-West Texas Border SBDC Network housed within UTSA's Institute for Economic Development. The RBP is designed to promote economic, business and community development in rural communities and areas throughout South and West Texas and the Border Region.
Mr. Gerlach also serves on numerous local and regional committees and boards. He holds a graduate degree in Urban Studies from Trinity University and a graduate degree in Public Administration from The University of Texas at San Antonio.
