Economic development is a tricky business in the best of times.

And in a tough economy, most communities are struggling to hold on to what they have. Success is redefined as maintaining the status quo.

But a small group of Connecticut communities are bucking the trend. They’re finding ways to grow and position themselves to prosper while their neighbors are barely holding on. Ending on Aug. 29, the Hartford Business Journal will take you to these communities we’re calling ‘Pathfinders.’ We’ll examine what they’re doing to leverage their assets and minimize their liabilities. We’ll map the paths their taking to building the economic success of their communities.

Today’s chapter looks at Farmington, already booming before the state announced a billion-dollar investment in the community.

In following chapters, we’ll look at a community positioning itself for growth by tying itself to another state research initiative — Tolland. And we’ll wrap it up with a town that’s looking forward, hoping to build on the success of its vibrant downtown.

Meet the ‘Pathfinders’

Part 1: Windsor & South Windsor
Location, Location, Location (& Planning)

ING, TicketNetwork highlight appeal of Windsor, South Windsor

Part 2: Cheshire
Diversity: Cheshire’s Key

Strategy starts with growing smaller local firms

Part 3: Bristol
ESPN and Bristol: A symbiotic relationship blooms

Tale of two cities

Part 4: Farmington
Low taxes, lifestyle place Farmington in enviable spot

With P&Z plowing the way, another banquet facility blossoms