Meet the state’s new economic development secretary – WBUR

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Jun 28, 2025 - 05:30
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Meet the state’s new economic development secretary – WBUR

Appointment of Eric Paley as Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary

Introduction

Governor Maura Healey has appointed Eric Paley as the new Secretary of Economic Development for Massachusetts. This strategic appointment aims to advance the state’s economic growth in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to industry innovation, economic growth, and sustainable cities and communities.

Background of Eric Paley

  • Experienced venture capitalist
  • Co-founder of a technology company

Economic Growth and Sustainable Development

Eric Paley’s appointment is expected to contribute significantly to Massachusetts’ economy by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, which directly supports SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

Strategic Focus Areas

  1. Promoting Innovation: Leveraging Paley’s background in technology to support startups and tech companies.
  2. Inclusive Economic Development: Ensuring economic opportunities are accessible to diverse communities, supporting SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.
  3. Sustainable Urban Development: Encouraging sustainable business practices that align with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Public Communication

Eric Paley discussed his vision and plans for Massachusetts’ economic future during an interview on WBUR’s All Things Considered, aired on June 27, 2025.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

  1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
    • The article discusses economic development and growth in Massachusetts, which aligns with SDG 8’s focus on promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
  2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
    • Eric Paley’s background as a venture capitalist and tech company co-founder highlights innovation and industrial development, which are central to SDG 9.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

  1. Under SDG 8:
    • Target 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading, and innovation.
    • Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities and entrepreneurship.
  2. Under SDG 9:
    • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade technological capabilities of industrial sectors, and encourage innovation.
    • Target 9.2: Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and, by 2030, significantly raise industry’s share of employment and GDP.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

  1. Indicators related to SDG 8:
    • 8.2.1: Annual growth rate of real GDP per employed person.
    • 8.3.1: Proportion of informal employment in non-agriculture employment, indicating the quality and formality of jobs created.
  2. Indicators related to SDG 9:
    • 9.5.1: Research and development expenditure as a proportion of GDP.
    • 9.2.2: Manufacturing value added as a proportion of GDP and per capita.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs Targets Indicators
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
  • 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading, and innovation.
  • 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities and entrepreneurship.
  • 8.2.1: Annual growth rate of real GDP per employed person.
  • 8.3.1: Proportion of informal employment in non-agriculture employment.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
  • 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade technological capabilities of industrial sectors, and encourage innovation.
  • 9.2: Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and raise industry’s share of employment and GDP.
  • 9.5.1: Research and development expenditure as a proportion of GDP.
  • 9.2.2: Manufacturing value added as a proportion of GDP and per capita.

Source: wbur.org