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NADO

The National Association of Development Organizations is a national association that promotes regional development strategies, partnerships, and initiatives that strengthen economic competitiveness and quality of life within local communities across the country.

Advocacy

NADO's federal advocacy agenda

NADO advocates for federal programs, policies, and initiatives that promote regional community development, economic competitiveness, quality of place, and economic mobility.

Events

NADO Events

NADO events provide opportunities for NADO members and non-members alike to network, engage in peer-learning, share solutions, learn about innovative tools and resources, stay apprised of relevant policy issues and advocacy efforts, and develop new approaches and strategies for facilitating regional community development in communities across the country.

Resources

NADO Resources

The NADO Research Foundation (NADO RF) provides education, research, and training that supports and strengthens the national network of Regional Development Organizations (RDOs).

Membership

Become a Member

Become a NADO member and gain access to training, resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities to help support your regional development work.

About Us

about NADO

The National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) is a leading voice in Washington, DC, advocating for federal programs and policies that promote regional community development and economic competitiveness.

Featured Resources

Building Capacity and Strengthening EDD-University Connections In Arkansas

This case study demonstrates how University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service (UADA Extension) partners with all eight EDA-designated Economic Development Districts in Arkansas to strengthen regional capacity, with a focus on its long-standing collaboration with the Western Arkansas Planning and Development District (WAPDD). It highlights how coordinated efforts in training, data sharing, and community facilitation have evolved into a scalable, locally rooted model for university–EDD partnerships.

Building Connection and Economic Opportunity Through Community Forestry

In 2023, Upper Coastal Plain Council of Governments (UCPCOG) in eastern North Carolina received funding to hire a dedicated staff member to establish a Community Forestry Program. The new position allowed UCPCOG to expand its regional service offerings and respond to growing member interest in urban and community forestry as a tool to support livability, resilience, and local capacity building, particularly in economically distressed communities with limited staff and resources.

[Webinar]: Why Clusters Matter: Industry-focused Strategies for Regional Economic Competitiveness

This webinar showed how cluster strategies align business, workforce, and public investment, shared real examples from Economic Development District staff using cluster analysis, and outlined practical steps for regions to launch or strengthen their own cluster initiatives.