The Purpose of a CEDS

The Commonwealth Regional Council (CRC) began its Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) effort with the intent to create a viable economic development plan that would provide a roadmap for sustainable economic growth. Once the EDA approves the CRC CEDS, the heartland region will be eligible to receive funding from EDA programs for various projects, such as economic adjustment, planning, trade adjustment assistance, public works, and technical assistance. In addition, the CEDS process will lead to establishing an Economic Development District (EDD) designation for the CRC. EDDs are multi-jurisdictional entities that help lead locally based, regionally driven economic development planning, incorporating the involvement of the public, private, and non-profit sectors to establish a strategic roadmap for regional collaboration.