If you recall, last year there was a contest sponsored by the Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which awarded Vine Global $100,000 in cash and $150,000 in prizes.

As this article over at The Business Journal stated, one of the goals for the winner was to provide economic growth for Fresno and promote growth and diversification for the valley.  So it seems a little insulting to find out that Vine Global is leaving the area to relocate to Scottsdale, AZ for an extended amount of time to be closer with a customer.  I understand sometimes part of the business is to build great relationships with your customers and provide the best service you can but this seems to be part of a larger trend that is occurring in the valley.

If you weren’t aware I wrote another post regarding another startup based on the Fresno area called PlasticJungle.  They were recently funded from a Venture Capital firm in which following the round of funding, decided to move most of their operations out of Clovis to the bay area.  While I disagree with these moves since I want to see new and innovative businesses grow here in the valley, I understand that the business here is not as optimal as places like the bay area.

But when is this trend going to end?  What will make Fresno and the central valley keep technology companies from wanting to relocate?  I personally would like to see more of the government stepping in and providing incentives for businesses to stay here but we all know that isn’t going to happen.

PlasticJungle Founder and COO Tina Henson I think made a good point, that we are best to focus on what assets we have here.

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