Creag Znetko, AZED Pro
Economic Development Administrator
City of Flagstaff
Member since 2021
Creag serves as the Economic Development Administrator for the City of Flagstaff, where he plays a pivotal role as the city’s representative for the Brownfields Program and is the primary point of contact for Flagstaff’s Incubator and Accelerator facilities. He collaborates with MOONSHOT to drive business development and economic growth. With a decade of service with the city, Creag is committed to strengthening the local economy and is an active member of AAED, where he received the AZED Pro certification. He is currently pursuing his IEDC certification to further enhance his expertise in economic development. His efforts have been instrumental in facilitating two key incentive programs—Business Retention and Expansion, as well as the Innovate Green Business Pitch Challenge, where he serves as both a mentor and judge. Prior to his public sector career, Creag accumulated 25 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, holding various leadership and operational roles. Additionally, as a former small restaurant owner in Flagstaff, he gained firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities business owners face. His diverse background equips him with a unique perspective, allowing him to provide strategic support to businesses and community investment initiatives.
Please describe your involvement in AAED.
I have been actively involved with AAED, attending most conferences over the past three years, with only a few absences due to my daughter’s wedding. Since 2021, I have served on the Northern Committee, earned my AZED Pro, currently serve as co-lead for the 2025 Mayoral Roundtable event, and most recently joined the Rural Committee. Additionally, our organization supports AAED as an annual and event sponsor, demonstrating my commitment to advancing economic development in Arizona.
Which committees have you served on?
Northern and Rural Committees.
Why do you want to serve as a member of the AAED Board of Directors?
Serving as a rural board member of AAED is a profound responsibility and privilege. It reflects my commitment to championing the unique needs, opportunities, and potential of Arizona’s rural communities. I am dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth (identified in our strategic plan), advocating for vital infrastructure and investment (reworked our budget to ensure the Business Incubator and Accelerator have maintenance funding), and ensuring that rural Arizona has a strong voice in shaping the state’s economic future. Through collaboration and innovation, I strive to create lasting impact and drive prosperity for the communities that are the backbone of our state.