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Ian Burns
Community & Economic Development Program Manager
Ian Burns
Started at MVPC: 2021
As the Targeted Economic Development Specialist, Ian supports the implementation of the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and Targeted Economic Development Strategy (TEDS) for Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover. Ian’s role will support MVPC’s work to strengthen key economic clusters in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover within the larger, regional economy.
Born and raised in the Merrimack Valley, Ian is passionate about creating positive change on a local and regional level. Ian previously worked with Groundwork Lawrence as a Public Affairs Coordinator, furthering the organization’s community development initiatives by advocating for policy changes on the state and federal level. He has a master’s degree in public affairs from Merrimack College and a Bachelor of Arts from Assumption College. Ian’s experience growing up and working in the region position him as a valuable addition to the MVPC team.
In his spare time, Ian enjoys hiking throughout New England, catching a Red Sox game, or perfecting his bread baking.
- Phone:+1 (859) 254-6589
- Email:IBurns@mvpc.org
Janin Duran
Economic Development Specialist
Janin Duran
Started at MVPC: 2025
As the Economic Development Specialist, Janin Duran focuses on fostering sustainable growth across the Merrimack Valley by collaborating with municipalities, businesses, and stakeholders to create opportunities that promote regional prosperity and long-term economic resilience.
With over 15 years of experience in entrepreneurial development, Janin has dedicated her career to empowering small businesses and bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and essential resources. She previously ran her own consulting business, working closely with nonprofits, government agencies, and private organizations to strengthen local economies and support business growth. Prior to that, Janin was the Founder and Executive Director of EparaTodos, the first-of-its-kind Spanish-language entrepreneurial accelerator under EforAll, designed exclusively for Spanish-speaking small business owners. Under her leadership, EparaTodos successfully helped over 150 businesses launch and navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. Through her efforts, these businesses contributed to the creation of approximately 300 jobs in the Greater Lawrence area, reinforcing the region’s economic vitality and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Janin is passionate about economic resilience and equitable access to opportunities, ensuring that all entrepreneurs—especially those from underrepresented communities—have the tools they need to succeed. Throughout her career, she has been committed to breaking down barriers and creating inclusive, sustainable economic pathways.
In her free time, Janin prioritizes her well-being through meditation and connecting with nature.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice (2004) and earned her Master of Arts in Criminal Justice in 2006.
- Phone:978-374-0519 ext. 35
- Email:JDuran@mvpc.org