A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a plan that helps guide local economic development efforts. It is also required for a region to be eligible for certain federal grants. Goals in writing a CEDS include deciding on and prioritizing economic development initiatives and helping to plan for a vibrant and resilient economy. Humboldt County produces a new CEDS every five years.
Target of Opportunity
In the past, this document has focused on several “industry clusters.” Industry clusters are related by industry, geography, shared workforce needs, transportation issues, or other factors. Certain clusters named the “Targets of Opportunity” gained attention because they each fit a number of criteria including providing good jobs, sending exports outside the region, and producing growth over time.
The Targets of Opportunity were:
- Building and Systems Construction
- Diversified Health Care
- Investment Support Services
- Management and Innovation Services
- Niche Manufacturing
- Specialty Food, Flowers and Beverages
Read the Full Report for more information: 2009-2019 Targets of Opportunity - Humboldt County
Additional Industries
In addition to the six industries mentioned, two additional industries that did not fit all of the criteria were selected for additional focus: Tourism and Forest Products.
Focus
Previously the CEDS focused on identifying and taking advantage of strengths and opportunities related to the clusters, while addressing, as much as possible, weaknesses and threats. The 2018 CEDS process was initiated with a focus on these still-promising industry clusters. However, stakeholder and community input consistently revealed that the region’s most pressing economic issues and promising opportunities cut across industry clusters. These include enhancing our workforce, addressing transportation and infrastructure limitations and more. As a result of these findings, 2018 CEDS is organized around cross-industry themes and strategies.