CEDS

What is the CEDS?

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a regionally-owned planning process and strategy-driven plan designed to build capacity and guide the economic prosperity and resiliency of a region.  The CEDS process results in a five-year strategic plan for regional economic development that is updated annually.  The report is submitted to the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration for review and approval.  Once the CEDS report is approved, the 12-county region is eligibile to apply for funding assistance for public works and planning projects related to economic development. 

Who participates in the CEDS planning process?

The CEDS planning process is open to individuals and organizations interested in the long-term development of economic opportunity in the southeast region of North Carolina.  The Commission, as the regional planning agency and the Economic Development District (EDD), leads the CEDS planning process.  The present CEDS Strategy Committee consists of representatives and stakeholders from all twelve member counties representing the main economic interests of the region.  The Committee has attempted to create a regional economic development strategy that will serve as a guide for the future, and identify critical investment needs, both public and private, in response to significant changes in recent years in the economic landscape of southeastern North Carolina. For more information about SEDC CEDS process, please contact Pamela Bostic at 910-862-6985, Ext. 320.  

Southeastern Economic Development Commission (SEDC) 2022 - 2027 CEDS (December 1, 2022)

Regions must update their CEDS at least every five years to qualify for EDA assistance under the Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance Programs.  As the region's EDD, the Southeastern Economic Development Commission is responsible for developing and updating a CEDS designed to support integrated planning and facilitate greater engagement to promote economic prosperity.  The SEDC just recently updated the five year plan for the region.  The document was submitted to the EDA on December 1, 2022.  To view or obtain a copy of the 2022 -2027 CEDS, please using the following link:  SEDC CEDS 2022 - 2027