economic development district for southeast michigan

SEMCOG was designated as an Economic Development District (EDD) by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) in 2023, joining over 400 EDDs across the nation that are focused on economic development planning and project implementation that aligns with their region’s comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS).  As part of that designation, SEMCOG’s Economic Development Council (EDC) was formed to facilitate the development, maintenance, and implementation of the region’s CEDS.

“Increasing Shared Prosperity for a Resilient Economy” is Southeast Michigan’s current CEDS, which was adopted in 2021. As such, it serves as the required vehicle through which the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) evaluates grant and resource requests for organizations in the seven-county region to pursue EDA grants and other resources.

A picture of people walking and browsing at the Howell Farmer's Market.

The current CEDS focuses on six main, interrelated strategies as well as supporting policies and actions for recovery and resiliency. The six broad strategies are:

View the 2021 CEDS Document

  • Preparing and Connecting Talent with Jobs
  • Creating and Marketing Quality Places
  • Anticipating Demands for Land Use
  • Investing in Critical Infrastructure
  • Fostering a Competitive Business Climate
  • Advancing Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship

Economic Development Council

The Economic Development Council (EDC) serves as the oversight committee for the development and implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for Southeast Michigan through SEMCOG’s designation as an Economic Development District by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). The Council works to foster a long-term partnership with the EDA and provides support for locally driven, place-based economic development projects and programs that implement the CEDS, as well as promoting shared prosperity for all people across the region. The EDC’s main objectives are to:

  • Develop strategies to address economic development issues, including the diversification of the regional economy and job expansion;
  • Share information and advise the Economic Development District on areas of economic data development;
  • Provide expertise for a holistic analysis of the regional economy;
  • Promote shared prosperity for all people across Southeast Michigan;
  • Document existing conditions, identify issues, and help shape economic development priorities for the region; and
  • Convene and collaborate with regional partners to align public and private investment.

Broadband Navigator

The Southeast Michigan Broadband Navigator provides current information about the availability and importance of fast internet services, commonly known as broadband. The Navigator also features information to support broadband access, digital literacy, cybersecurity, funding, and programs. Data and maps found here show availability and usage of broadband services. It has been created as a resource for communities, governments, educators, and all other stakeholders. The Broadband Navigator also serves as part of a wider effort to implement the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments’ Broadband Framework, Broadband in Southeast Michigan: Expansion, Engagement, and Equity.

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