Updated CEDS Available!

The WMSRDC CEDS 2024-2028 is now available. Click here to view or download the document.

Development of this CEDS began in the winter of 2022-2023 with a regional SWOT analysis process, consisting of focus groups in each of the district’s five member counties. The proposed draft was completed in early 2024, then made available for a 30-day review period and approved by the WMSRDC Board in March 2024. The updated CEDS follows guidelines issued by the US Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration (EDA) in April 2023. Notable revisions of this edition, include a SWOT analysis, updated demographics, incorporation of the WMSRDC Pandemic Response and Recovery Plan, and a revised action plan. Per EDA guidance, there is also an increased emphasis on climate resilience, equity, workforce development, and broadband.

About the CEDS

The CEDS is a strategy-driven plan for regional economic development and is the result of a regionally owned planning process designed to build capacity and guide the economic prosperity and resiliency of a region. The CEDS is required to maintain the region’s designation as an Economic Development District (EDD) by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration (EDA). This designation enables communities within the WMSRDC region to remain eligible for EDA funding programs. Since 1966, EDA has made at least 55 investments in the WMSRDC region, including industrial parks and infrastructure improvements, technology centers, technical assistance, and loans. Development of the CEDS is led by WMSRDC, overseen by the CEDS Strategy Committee, and approved by the WSMRDC Board. As the designated EDD for the counties of Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana, WMSRDC is required to maintain and update the CEDS every five years. The CEDS Strategy Committee meets quarterly and is comprised of representatives from throughout the WMSRDC region.