Entrepreneur Highlights the Importance of Smart Growth, Workforce Development, and Eco-Friendly Business Practices

Oklahoma, USA, 21st February 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, Entrepreneur and engineer Patrick Delehanty is raising awareness about the need for sustainable business innovation in Oklahoma’s growing economy. With industries like aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and real estate development expanding rapidly, Delehanty is advocating for a smarter, more sustainable approach to growth.

“Oklahoma has the chance to lead the nation in business-friendly innovation, but we have to do it the right way,” Delehanty says. “That means balancing growth with sustainability, training a skilled workforce, and making smart investments in our infrastructure.”

Oklahoma’s Business and Workforce Growth

Oklahoma’s small business sector has grown by 26% since 2015, and the tech industry now contributes over $7 billion annually to the state’s economy. However, Delehanty warns that unchecked expansion without sustainability and workforce development could create long-term challenges.

“We have great incentives to bring businesses here, but we need to make sure we’re also building a strong workforce to support them,” he says. “That means better training programs, partnerships with Oklahoma State University and local colleges, and investing in skilled trade education alongside tech innovation.”

Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage

As founder of Villa Homes, Delco Holdings, and Express Redi Mix, Delehanty incorporates energy-efficient technology and sustainable materials into his developments. He believes Oklahoma businesses should prioritize sustainability—not just for environmental reasons, but as a competitive advantage.

“Consumers and investors are demanding sustainability more than ever,” he explains. “If businesses here don’t adapt, they’ll get left behind. Energy-efficient buildings, smart infrastructure, and eco-friendly production methods aren’t just good for the environment—they lower costs and attract more investment.”

The numbers support this. A Harvard Business Review study found that companies with strong sustainability strategies outperform competitors by up to 21% in the long term. Meanwhile, states leading in green business innovation—like California and Colorado—are attracting billions in private investment.

A Call to Action for Oklahoma’s Business Community

Delehanty is urging business leaders, policymakers, and investors to take action. “We don’t have to reinvent the wheel. We just need to learn from what works elsewhere and apply it to Oklahoma’s unique strengths,” he says.

He suggests more public-private partnerships, incentives for green businesses, and expanded workforce training programs to ensure long-term prosperity.

“Oklahoma is at a turning point,” he says. “We can either lead in smart, sustainable growth, or risk falling behind. The choice is ours.”