On Thursday, August 29, 2024, Governor Kevin Stitt announced Evan Brown will lead the Oklahoma Office of Economic Development, Growth, and Expansion (EDGE) at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Governor Kevin Stitt signed SB 1447 earlier this year, creating the new division within the Department of Commerce to spur economic and business development across the state.

“Evan has a knack for economic policy that will help make Oklahoma the most attractive state for investment and opportunity,” said Governor Stitt. “Evan knows what businesses need to be successful and he’ll play a crucial role in expanding our economy like never before. We’ve made incredible progress in making Oklahoma the best state for business, and I expect Evan’s leadership to take us to the next level.”

Evan Brown serves as the deputy secretary of state for Oklahoma, working closely with members of the Stitt administration to advance pro-business policies, support economic growth, and encourage capital investment. He previously worked at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce as the director of legislative affairs and the deputy director of business development. In these capacities, Brown played a crucial role in recruiting new businesses to the state, as well as supporting existing industry in Oklahoma.

“I’m honored to take on this role and join the team at Commerce,” said Brown. “There’s never been a more exciting time to do business in Oklahoma, and EDGE will be a driving force that moves the needle on economic development. I’m thankful for Governor Stitt’s Top Ten vision for our state, and look forward to working with local businesses and economic development professionals to make Oklahoma the best state in the nation to do business.”

Brown graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Management. Brown is happily married to his wife, Addison. They reside in Oklahoma City and are members of Crossings Mayfair Church.

Evan Brown's headshot can be found here.