MORPC’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Approved

February 10, 2022

U.S. Economic Development Administration granted approval Feb. 1.

The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) has received official approval from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) for the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS).

The CEDS contributes to effective economic development in America’s communities and regions through a locally based, regionally driven economic development planning process. The U.S. EDA sets guidelines to assist with the development or update of a CEDS.

MORPC led the region’s CEDS in partnership with One Columbus. The CEDS process brought together economic developers, workforce development stakeholders, transportation officials, higher education representatives, and others for a set of key conversations about the Columbus Region’s economic development strengths and opportunities.

“Collaboration is at the heart of the economic success of our region. The CEDS further integrates economic development work across the region with MORPC’s long-range planning expertise in areas like housing, broadband, infrastructure development, and sustainability.”

Thea Ewing, Chief Regional Development Officer and Senior Director of Programming at MORPC

With an approved CEDS in place, MORPC will now apply for the region to be designated as an Economic Development District (EDD) by the U.S. Economic Development Administration.

“This is an important step towards integrating economic development work across the region. EDD designation will make key tools available to prepare our communities for growth and investment.”

Ted Geer, Economic Development Officer at MORPC

Learn more about MORPC’s CEDS here.