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SUBJECTS › ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT › Economic Development Brokers
Updated 10/08

Economic Development Brokers

Contents

Introduction

Economic development in Washington State is facilitated by a number of agencies and organizations that have statutory authority, and by recognized organizations, which public agencies may contract with for the purpose of economic development. Economic development is carried out through partnerships. At the state level, the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development contracts with organizations that promote and coordinate economic development. This is done through local service agreements with local governments, small business development centers, port districts, community and technical colleges, private industry councils, and other development organizations, for the efficient delivery of community and economic development services in their areas.

State

The Washington State Department of Community Trade and Economic Development is charged with community and economic responsibilities (RCW 43.330.050). CTED's International Trade Economic Development Division works in partnership with businesses and communities to attract, retain, expand, and support economic activity that promotes prosperity and improves the quality of life throughout Washington.

Associate Development Organizations (ADO) - Development Councils

The associate development organization (ADO) is the lead agency in each county for economic development. It is designated by the board of county commissioners or the county council. The ADO is defined in RCW 43.330.010 as "a local economic development nonprofit corporation that is broadly representative of community interests." The more familiar term is economic development council (EDC). The term, economic development council is generic, but it generally refers to associate development organizations. The ADOs generally have the name council or association in the name but others do not, such as Quest for Economic Development that serves Chelan and Douglas Counties. In Kittitas County the recognized ADO is the Phoenix Group.

Economic Development Districts (Federal)

Economic development districts (EDD) are chartered under the Economic Development Administration's (EDA) 302(b) planning grant program. EDDs help communities build capacity to focus on long-term economic challenges. Economic Development District organizations are often coordinating entities for various Federal and state programs.  

EDA Reauthorization  - EDA Publishes Final Rule in Federal Register September 27, 2006 - All recognized Economic Development Districts will be funded by EDA – and EDA continues to approve the designation of additional districts

Economic development districts in Washington State:

Resource Conservation and Development Councils (Federal)

RC&D Programs are sponsored by the Natural Resources Conservation Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture to coordinate multi-county activities. Programs are carried out by the RC&D Council and the Coordinator within the context of an RC&D area. The area is a multi-county, locally defined, sponsored, and directed to carry out a program that encourages land conservation and utilization, accelerated economic development and/or improvement of social conditions where needed, to foster a sound local economy.  

Port Districts - RCW 53.08.245 - Economic Development Programs Authorized

Chambers of Commerce and Other Organizations

Partnerships and Coalitions