Marketing and economic development professionals face a rapidly evolving landscape that demands adaptability and innovation. From social media shifts to the resurgence of in-person event experiences, economic development organizations face a range of opportunities to forge meaningful connections and drive impact in 2025.
Keep reading for a breakdown of the recent updates and emerging trends the PPR team sees shaping this year.
Social Media Marketing
We’ll get this hot topic out of the way first: what is happening with TikTok? If you haven’t downloaded our free 2025 Social Media Guide for EDOs yet, we’ll briefly recap what we know about this platform’s future. While the platform temporarily went offline this month due to a U.S. Supreme Court ban, it has resumed operations amid ongoing negotiations. TikTok is here for now, but stay aware of incoming changes. This is a tricky topic to predict, but with advocacy efforts to keep TikTok intact for U.S.-based users, we think a compromise will emerge to either transfer ownership of the platform and/or address privacy concerns under current ownership to keep it intact in the States.
Another app that has been facing instability is X (formerly Twitter). Bluesky, a privacy-minded microblogging platform, is one of the apps gaining momentum as many users express negative feedback about Elon Musk’s ownership of X. If you have a thriving, engaged audience on X, you might want to monitor the shift over to Bluesky if your audience populates there, too. Otherwise, we don’t predict this will be a prosperous marketing channel for EDOs in the near future.
Facebook, a tried-and-true social media platform, recently announced a rollback of its fact-checking protocols, so expect many Facebook users to become increasingly skeptical of the content they see. For economic development organizations, this is an opportunity to shine by becoming a trusted voice in your region. Share timely, transparent updates, and consider using your platform to counter misinformation with reliable data and resources. Brands that prioritize credibility now will gain a competitive advantage.
Public Relations
Influencer marketing continues to bridge the gap between public relations and social media. In 2025, expect deeper partnerships that go beyond product promotions to reflect shared values and long-term alignment. Authentic collaborations with influencers, whether micro or macro, will drive trust and visibility for your brand.
Artificial intelligence tools are transforming PR workflows, from drafting press releases to audience analysis. While these innovations unlock efficiency, they also demand careful oversight. Balancing the benefits of AI with a human touch ensures accuracy, builds credibility, and avoids potential pitfalls like misinformation. AI-powered tools will become increasingly sophisticated, but successful organizations will pair AI with human expertise to craft compelling, community-centered messaging that resonates with your target audience.
Public relations is no longer a “nice-to-have;” it’s a must-have. Beyond traditional media relations, it’s a cornerstone for fostering partnerships and navigating crises. A robust PR strategy can set your brand apart and solidify your reputation in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Economic development organizations should lean into their expertise to share insights on local business growth, workforce trends, and regional investment opportunities as an intentional PR approach.
Event Management and Marketing
The uptick of in-person events comes with heightened expectations for tailored, memorable experiences. From customized schedules and interactive event apps to swag that feels personal, organizations that embrace personalization will leave a lasting impression and deepen attendee connections.
Sustainability has moved from trend to expectation. Digital tickets, reusable materials, and local partnerships are becoming the standard for event organizers. These efforts showcase not only environmental responsibility but also your brand’s commitment to aligning with modern values. However, creating accessible materials (e.g., large-print programs) for everyone to enjoy the experience is just as important!
Post-event follow-ups transform casual interactions into lasting relationships. Personalized emails, LinkedIn connections, or resources tied to specific conversations can create goodwill and keep your brand top of mind. The attendee journey doesn’t stop when the event ends, and neither should your engagement. Our prediction? Automation will become a game-changer here. Tools like AI-driven CRM platforms will allow organizations to send hyper-relevant follow-ups instantly, fostering stronger post-event relationships while saving time.
As the new year unfolds, success in marketing and economic development will require adaptability, authenticity, and strategic actions. By staying aware (and ahead) of industry trends, you’ll not only build stronger connections but also position yourself for sustainable growth in the year ahead.
At PPR Strategies, we’re here to help you navigate what’s next. Slide into our inbox to chat, because 2025 isn’t waiting, and neither should you!
