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Actively participate in regional economic development initiatives: Home

Benefits of actively participating in regional economic development initiatives

It’s vital for municipalities to be involved in regional economic development initiatives to stay updated on the region’s goals and coordinate with neighboring municipalities. Relationships built through regional participation also allow communities to share and learn from one another. In some areas of the state, regional economic development organizations exist to coordinate municipalities while others are served by Councils of Government (COG) or other regional entities. Participating may involve attending COG meetings and disseminating relevant information learned to staff and commissioners, actively participating in organizations like the CEDAS (the Connecticut Economic Development Association), NEDA (Northeast Economic Development Association), and knowing and engage the contacts for DECD (the State Department of Economic and Community Development).

Community Examples

The town of Bethel participated in CEDS (Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy) in 2013 and 2017. CEDS is a plan that is structured to meet the requirements of the U.S. Economic Development Association. Participating in CEDS may allow municipalities to be designated as an Economic Development District and can provide eligibility for funding and other opportunities.