[B] The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

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Transition of CEDS Creation

The committee, of regional stakeholders, instrumental in the last CEDS creation, led by Bowling Green State University Center for Regional Development, wished to pursue designation as an economic development district (EDD) through the EDA. With that in mind, they proposed the transition of CEDS creation and implementation from BGSU CRD to TMACOG. TMACOG has a 55-year history as a council of governments that advances regional cooperation in transportation, water quality, and other endeavors. As the CEDS is a regional road map for economic development that is locally driven, TMACOG was the natural choice to centralize CEDS implementation as well as pursue the designation of an EDD.

What is the CEDS?

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a strategy-driven plan for regional economic development that is the result of a regionally-owned planning process. It is a critical requirement for grant funding through the EDA as well as other funding opportunities.

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55 years

Fall 2024

TMACOG has served as the region's Council of Governments

CEDS planning initiated

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

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Goals and Outcomes

Securing Federal Funding

Your Investment Matters

The work of the CEDS will begin in the Fall of 2024. This strategy will be a data-driven, inclusive plan that identifies our region's unique strengths and opportunities. It will outline specific goals and actionable steps to:

However, securing this federal grant requires demonstrating strong regional support. Your financial contribution to TMACOG will be crucial in showcasing this commitment. By supporting our efforts, you will be investing not just in the strategy itself, but in the future of our entire region.

We are confident that this strategy will be instrumental in propelling our region forward. To make this vision a reality, we are applying for a grant through the EDA Planning and Local Technical Assistance program. This grant will provide critical funding, over the next 5 years, to develop the CEDS.

Attract and retain businesses: By creating a more attractive environment for businesses, we can foster job creation and economic growth.

Support entrepreneurship: By providing resources and support to aspiring entrepreneurs, we can foster innovation and contribute to economic dynamism.

Develop a skilled workforce: By investing in workforce development programs, we can ensure our residents have the skills needed to compete in the ever-evolving job market.

Enhance infrastructure: By improving our infrastructure, we can facilitate economic development and attract new businesses.

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

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Be a Pillar of Progress

We are asking for a pledge of [specific amount] to support the development of our Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for 2026-2030. This pledge is a one-time contribution, for the 2026-2030 CEDS, that will play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for our community.

Time is of the essence for our grant application. We understand that schedules may be full, but your support is crucil to the success of this grant application. We kindly request your prompt attention to this request.

To ensure we can move forward without delay, please complete this commitment form confirming your pledge amount no later than August 9,2024. Your timely support is vital to our mission, and we deeply appreciate your commitment to our shared vision.

In addition to serving as a regional economic development plan, the CEDS is also a prerequisite for the development of an Economic Development District (EDD), which is a multi-jurisdictional entity that leads locally-based, regionally-driven economic development planning processes and coordinates the implementation of EDA investments in a region.