Empowering the future of gis

EDGE is committed to solving the critical challenges holding back growth in the geospatial industry. From addressing the talent shortage to increasing MWBE participation and raising public awareness, our work ensures the industry is equipped for the future. 

Through our two flagship initiatives—Geo Advancement and Geo Alliance—we’re creating clear pathways for students, professionals, and small businesses to thrive in GIS. By building a stronger, more inclusive ecosystem, we help drive innovation, meet workforce demands, and expand opportunity across the industry. 

geo advancement initiative

EDGE’s Geo Advancement Initiative solves two key challenges facing the GIS industry: the talent shortage and the need for greater technology adoption.

We raise broad awareness of GIS through exposure efforts targeting K–12 students, ensuring the next generation is familiar with geospatial technology early on. At the same time, we focus our workforce development programs on university students, emerging professionals, and individuals with transferable STEM skills—connecting them to training, software access, and job opportunities.

For industry, the initiative helps expand brand reach, build sales pipelines, and raise overall awareness of GIS technology—positioning GIS firms to grow like other major tech sectors. By driving both adoption and talent development, the Geo Advancement Initiative supports long-term industry growth.

geo alliance inititative

The Geo Alliance Initiative connects large and small GIS firms to strengthen supplier diversity and grow the geospatial business ecosystem. We equip MWBEs and small businesses with the tools, training, and readiness to enter and compete in the GIS market—while helping large firms meet MWBE requirements for public and private contracts.

Through curated in-person and virtual networking events, online small business showcases, and searchable partner tools, we create practical pathways for collaboration, contract fulfillment, and long-term business growth. Together, we drive inclusive growth and unlock new opportunities across the industry.