Elizabeth Demetriou, AICP

Elizabeth Demetriou is a passionate advocate for inclusive economic development, bringing deep expertise in community development, urban planning, and industrial development. She is committed to working with local leaders to transform overlooked places into thriving, local economies where opportunity is accessible to all.

As Senior Director of Economic Development at the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), she leads national efforts to strengthen business districts, support entrepreneurs, and empower community-based organizations in underinvested areas. Previously, Elizabeth held leadership roles at the New York Empire State Development Corporation and the Southwest Brooklyn Industrial Development Corporation, where she continues to serve on the Board. Her passion for ensuring that communities are at the center of economic transformation drives her work with Mechanism. Elizabeth believes the industrial sector is a vital source of good jobs, innovation, and resilience — and that everyone should have access to these opportunities, regardless of zip code.

Elizabeth holds a Master’s in Urban Planning from Hunter College (CUNY) and an Executive Certificate in Economic Development from the Harvard Kennedy School. She also sits on the Redefining Equitable Economic Development Advisory Committee at the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).

Based in Red Hook, Brooklyn, and with ties to the Northeast Kingdom in Vermont, Elizabeth finds inspiration both in city streets and natural landscapes. Based in Red Hook, Brooklyn, and with ties to the Northeast Kingdom in Vermont, Elizabeth finds inspiration in both city streets and rural landscapes. She loves discovering the makers, entrepreneurs, and hidden gems that give places their unique character — from creative businesses to third spaces that provide crucial civic infrastructure. She lives with her partner, a boat captain and founder of Look North Gallery, and their eight-year-old daughter.