Economic Development Administration (EDA)

Economic Development District

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) created 320 Economic Development Districts (EDD) around the country, of which Eastgate is one.  The EDD’s play a key role in local economic development by allowing the region to establish priorities for projects and investments, helping the EDA to more effectively invest federal dollars.

In August 1992, the Eastgate area, Ashtabula, Mahoning and Trumbull Counties, was designated an EDD by the EDA. This designation permits local government entities to qualify for EDA grants.

To remain qualified as an Economic Development District, Eastgate must adopt a regional comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS). The plan is designed to foster regional cooperation through the identification of mutually shared needs, the establishment of goals and objectives, and assigned action steps to improve the economic base and general quality of life in the District. This is accomplished through long range planning to ensure that public investment project will, to the maximum extent possible, stimulate the creation and/or retention of jobs in the District.

According to Title 13, Chapter 3 of the Code of Federal Regulations:
CEDS are designed to bring together the public and private sectors in the creation of an economic roadmap to diversify and strengthen Regional economies. The CEDS should analyze the Regional economy and serve as a guide for establishing Regional goals and objectives, developing and implementing a Regional plan of action, identifying investment priorities and funding sources, and assigning lead organizations responsibilities for execution of the CEDS. Public and private sector partnerships are critical to the implementation of the integral elements of a CEDS.

If you are interested in applying for an EDA grant, please contact Rachel McCartney for complete information on eligibility, match, and application timelines.

Economic Development Committee