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This online resource highlights how EDDs have identified regional and local housing challenges and established what role they can play in improving housing outcomes in their region. It showcases EDD best practices from across the country in a variety of regional market contexts and provides implementable strategies for different roles that EDDs have taken including Planner, Financier, Land Manager, and Developer.
Regional development organizations are using local and regional resilience workshops to identify community climate and economic resilience needs, connect local leaders with funding opportunities, and create action plans for future sustainable growth. This resource provides a walk through of how organizations can bring these resilience workshops to their own regions. Topics covered include workshop goalsetting, stakeholder engagement, and post-workshop implementation, evaluation, and follow-up.
EDDs are well-suited to be the regional liaison with military installations across a wide variety of topic areas of mutual interest to military installations and their surrounding communities. This report examines some of the main challenges facing communities with military installations and offers how EDDs can best support these vital economic drivers in their regions. Throughout this report are examples from EDDs successfully managing these relationships and showcasing specific, replicable strategies that can be used at EDDs across the country serving regions home to military installations.
Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) offer unique resources that help increase the capacity of EDDs to carry out their work, including specialized research, training programs, technology transfer, and commercialization capabilities. Explore this piece, written by EDD CoP project partner University Economic Development Association (UEDA), for tips on initiating, improving, and sustaining partnerships between EDDs and HEIs.
The partnership between Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement and New River Valley Regional Commission inherently strengthens the resiliency of the Southwest Virginia region by increasing the capacity both organizations have, reducing the duplication of efforts, and advancing towards mutual goals.
The relationship featured in this case study showcases the opportunities that may arise for an EDD by partnering with a University Center by having greater access to expertise and resources. Gaining awareness of what both an EDD and a University Center can offer to a community can lead to greater benefits to everyone involved.
Regional Development Organizations (RDOs) and Economic Development Districts (EDDs) have used regional housing land banks as a tool for targeted neighborhood revitalization and redevelopment. This NADO Research Foundation resource provides an overview of regional housing land banks and considerations for how organizations can implement these programs into their regions.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s Brownfields Program is a vital tool for EDDs to use when driving transformative economic impact and targeted neighborhood revitalization. EDDs may be familiar with the Assessment, Cleanup, and Coalition grant opportunities through the Brownfields program, but may have not considered how their region can utilize existing RLF staff experience to establish Regional Brownfields RLFs for their region. This resource will address some key points in establishing a regional Brownfields RLF and provide helpful tips for getting a regional or local-specific program off the ground.
This publication provides an introductory overview of tribal engagement strategies for staff at Economic Development Districts (EDDs). EDDs and Tribal Nations frequently have shared interests and the opportunity to partner on projects that deliver economic development to their overlapping communities. Many EDDs have existing relationships with nearby Tribal Nations, up to and including ongoing representation on EDD boards and committees. In others, relationships are more limited or have lapsed over time.
Economic Development Districts (EDDs) often work with part-time elected officials at the municipal and county level that have limited staff capacity and time to engage with EDD programs and services. This tip sheet, provided through the EDD Community of Practice program, provides some tips for EDDs in better engaging these valuable partners in regional economic development and building mutually beneficial relationships.
EDA engaged the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC) and its partners (National Association of Development Organizations Research Foundation, State International Development Organizations, and the American Manufacturing Communities Collaborative) to research the barriers to strategic alignment, educate stakeholders, and provide technical assistance to increase collaboration and co-investment. These Issue Briefs use case studies to discuss how states and EDDs can work together to improve outcomes in several important strategic area including aligning the CEDS development process, infrastructure, building relationships and more.
In July 2023, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) hosted its’ first ever Climate Resilience Workshop in St. Louis, Missouri. Convening military installation commanders, base planning and engineering staff, state and local officials, federal grantmaking agencies, environmental and economic resilience research and advocacy groups, and regional development organizations, this conference was unique in showcasing a distinct niche of planning work: military installation resilience.
On June 7-9, 2023, 18 local and regional leaders from coal communities across the nation convened in the Southwest Virginia (SWVA) region for a peer-learning journey. This Coalition was launched through the Building Resilient Economies in Coal Communities (BRECC) Community of Practice initiative, supported by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and led by the National Association of Counties (NACo).
The Infrastructure Resilience Planning Framework (IRPF) was developed by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to help regions understand infrastructure dependencies within their local systems and “to enable the incorporation of security and resilience considerations in critical infrastructure planning and investment decisions.” By demonstrating how to include local governments, community leaders, and private sector stakeholders in the planning conversations, the IRPF provides a potential model for integrating hazard mitigation plans into a region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS).
New Growth Innovation Network (NGIN) officially launched Elevating Equity in Economic Development: An Inclusive Recovery Toolkit, which presented as both an online interactive toolkit and in-depth downloadable guide. The toolkit features Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion modules with illustrative best practices (including from EDDs) and recommendations to get started. The guide includes resources tailored for Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies and serves as a reference when planning for inclusive economic growth. Both are available at recovery.newgrowth.org.
This brief covers approaches taken by EDDs and spotlights executive directors who share in their own words the ways they have recruited new staff, shaped their work and office culture, and built a sense of belonging at their organizations.
This brief provides a background for EDD staff about the workforce development ecosystem and how EDDs can better coordinate workforce and economic development programs.
This tip sheet offers a framework for EDD practitioners to use data to improve organizational practices and offers additional resources and scenarios for using this framework to improve teamwork in the office, tell the region’s story, and secure more funding for regional projects.
A special wealth creation page for EDDs now hosts training materials, reports, blog posts, and other resources all in one location. Specific resources to note are a Wealth Creation Primer, Looking Through the Lens of Wealth Creation, Focusing on Regional Assets Using the Wealth Creation Approach, blog posts from mobile workshops during NADO’s Annual Training Conference, and a variety of wealth creation training materials.
This report explores what it means to be investment ready for engaging in downtown development and showcases the varied downtown revitalization work that EDDs are doing in their communities. It highlights EDD best practices from across the country in a variety of geographies and provides an idea of the types of roles that EDDs have taken including: Downtown Planning, Brownfields, Facilitation, Funding and Implementation, and EDD-produced Resources.
View this report to learn how some EDDs are using wealth creation to frame their work in sector-based economic development, helping to develop and encourage partnerships to overcome mutual challenges, including barriers to resilience and workforce development.
On August 15-17, 2023, Economic Development Districts, tribes, and others gathered in Jamestown, North Dakota; Pierre, South Dakota; and Minneapolis, Minnesota to attend the kickoff meetings for the North Central Regional Food Business Center, led by Region Five Development Commission (R5DC), an Economic Development District and, WealthWorks regional hub.
EDDs can use their problem-solving expertise to support locally owned and/or controlled food systems based on regional and local assets. Locally controlled food systems, with a priority on production, processing, distribution, and consumption at the local level, can have outsized public health, climate, and economic impacts on underserved communities and serve as the economic spark needed to revitalize neighborhoods.
This microsite created by the NADO Research Foundation Regional Development Researchers Melissa Levy and Andrew Coker uses the Wealth Creation framework to help EDDs better understand regional food systems development, provide tangible strategies for EDDs that want to engage in food systems work, and give examples of how successful EDDs have grown into this space.
An effective Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) can be an impactful and valuable instrument for Economic Development Districts (EDDs) to support small businesses in their regions.Traditional banking institutions may have rigid or risk-averse requirements concerning past lending history, collateral, or loan amounts that can restrict the ability of entrepreneurs to secure capital investment. EDD RLFs can provide prospective borrowers with more flexible lending agreements that creates opportunity and makes capital more accessible in the region.
© 2022 National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) and the NADO Research Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
Regional Development Researcher Andrew Coker joined the NADO team in March of 2023 after spending two and a half years as the Regional Economic Resiliency Coordinator at West Central Arkansas Planning and Development District. Andrew holds a bachelor’s degree from Hendrix College and a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service.
At NADO, Andrew conducts research on the newest economic and community development best practices from Economic Development Districts across the country. He helps produce easily digestible information on complex regional issues through case studies, tip sheets, and research reports. Andrew also hosts training and professional development opportunities including conference sessions and virtual webinars for member regional development organizations.
Andrew is one of our Missouri-based team members and enjoys reading and training for his next triathlon.
Jack Morgan came to the NADO team in 2022 after seven years with the National Association of Counties (NACo) as a Program and Senior Program Manager. Prior to NACo, Jack was a Policy Analyst for Friends of Southwest Virginia. Jack holds a bachelor’s in geography from Emory & Henry College and a master’s in geography from Appalachian State University.
As a NADO Senior Program Manager, Jack leads capacity-building and peer-learning work supporting energy communities in economic transition, regional resilience, and recreation economies. He also helps with the EDA-Austin training program Emerging Leaders.
Jack is certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and is a member of the American Planning Association (APA) in the Regional & Intergovernmental Planning division. He also serves on the Emory & Henry College Alumni Board.
Taking road trips, reading non-fiction, and indulging in top-notch barbecue and coffee round out Jack’s days. He loves maps, mountains, and of course, all things sports.
Karron Grant joined the NADO team in 2023 as Administrative Specialist and is the first face (or voice) you’ll see or hear when reaching out to NADO. As Administrative Specialist, Karron manages our database and coordinates NADO event operations. He ensures members’ needs are met, contact information stays current, and NADO’s office is running efficiently.
Karron came to NADO after four years in the classroom teaching at The New Century School and Old Mill Middle North where he received the Patriot of the Year award. He attended Towson University and the University of Maryland Global Campus and holds a bachelor’s in international studies and humanities.
Visiting art galleries and museums, playing basketball and bowling, and taking in movies and music are some of Karron’s interests and hobbies.
Deputy Executive Director Laurie Thompson has been with NADO for 25 years. Laurie helps keep the NADO and NADO Research Foundation wheels turning through management of the daily operations of the Research Foundation, securing financial resources and overseeing grants management, and helping execute NADO’s Annual Training Conference each year.
Laurie holds a bachelor’s in public affairs and government from Mount Vernon College and a master’s in health services administration from The George Washington University. Prior to NADO, Laurie spent time as a Field Specialist and an Eagle Staff Fund Director at First Nations Development Institute.
When she’s taking a rare reprieve from her NADO work, Laurie enjoys traveling domestically and internationally to visit friends and family.
Jamie McCormick joined the NADO team as a Policy Fellow first in 2019, then moved into her current role as Legislative Associate in 2021. As Legislative Associate, Jamie keeps NADO members apprised of any policy and regulatory issues and communicates NADO’s policy priorities to federal stakeholders and partner organizations. She is also the first stop for members with inquiries on policy issues. The planning and execution of NADO & DDAA’s annual Washington Conference is also managed by Jamie.
Jamie holds a dual bachelor’s in political science and international relations from The State University of New York College at Geneseo and a master’s in international development studies from The George Washington University. In addition to her roles at NADO, Jamie also worked as a Legislative Assistant for the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association.
Outside of her NADO work, Jamie is an active volunteer with the VOLO Kids Foundation and a fundraiser for YMCA youth programs. She is also NADO’s resident baker regularly providing treats for those in NADO’s D.C. office. Traveling, taking her pup on walks, and hiking in the northeast keep Jamie busy.
Brett Schwartz began at NADO in 2012 as a Research Fellow after earning his J.D. from the University of Baltimore School of Law. The following year, he was promoted to Program Manager and has now been leading as an Associate Director since 2018. Brett is responsible for managing NADO’s Economic Development District Community of Practice (EDD CoP), as well as researching and monitoring the latest trends in regional economic development and resilience, including best practices for the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). With more than a decade of experience on the NADO team, Brett is a dynamic relationship builder helping connect and build capacity among the national network of regional development organizations.
Brett also holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and a master’s from Trinity College Dublin, as well as a certificate in mediation training. He’s a member of Catalyst Grantmakers of San Diego and Imperial Counties and was a participant in the 2021-22 Field Trips to the Future Cohort.
Brett is one of NADO’s West Coast team members residing in San Diego, CA where he enjoys spending time outdoors, attending concerts and festivals, and soaking up life as a parent of two young children.
Communications Manager Katie Allison joined the team in 2023 to lead the strategic communication efforts of NADO. Katie creates and develops print and online materials, communicates NADO’s updates to members via weekly emails, and maintains content for nado.org and NADO’s social media channels. She also works with different departments to generate new ideas and strategies to effectively describe and promote the important work NADO is doing for EDDs and RDOs across the country.
An experienced nonprofit communications professional, Katie has worked for organizations in western North Carolina for nearly a decade. She holds a bachelor’s in communications from Wingate University where she was a four-year student athlete. Katie has also completed Vision Henderson County, a comprehensive leadership development program that promotes informed and committed civic volunteerism.
Katie stays busy trying to keep up with her two young sons whom she enjoys exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains with. Traveling to new and favorite places and cheering on the Atlanta Braves are some of her family’s favorite pastimes.
Senior Program Manager Ciara Ristig has been a member of the NADO team since 2021, and helps with NADO’s EDD Community of Practice, EDD staff capacity building and other grants on a range of subjects, including equity and solar energy. Before NADO, Ciara worked as a Planner for the County of Santa Barbara and an Assistant Project Manager for REM Consult. Ciara holds a bachelor’s in urban studies and French from Bryn Mawr and a master’s in urban studies from Ecole d’Urbanisme de Paris.
When she’s not traveling, you can find her outrigger paddling and serving on the board of the Blue Sky Center in New Cuyama, CA, near her home base of Santa Barbara.
Carrie Kissel has been a member of the NADO team since 2005 when she began as a Research Fellow. She later moved into the roles of Program Manager in 2006, and then Associate Director in 2011. Carrie holds a bachelor’s in anthropology from Ball State University and a master’s in public anthropology from American University. As Associate Director, Carrie oversees NADO’s work in rural transportation and rural wealth creation. She provides technical assistance and support to rural regions on transportation and economic development issues and develops training and peer exchange events on transportation issues and rural wealth creation as an economic development strategy.
Carrie is a member of the Transportation Research Board (TRB) and secretary of TRB’s Rural Transportation Issues Coordinating Council. She is also a member of the American Anthropological Association and the National Association for the Practice of Anthropology.
Reading, gardening, hiking, and kayaking are a few of Carrie’s hobbies, and she organizes and facilitates a DEI/social justice-focused book club in her community.
Melissa Levy has worked at NADO as a Regional Development Researcher since February 2023 and is the Principal Consultant at her own firm specializing in wealth-based economic development consulting. With a career spanning nearly 30 years, Melissa brings a breadth of knowledge to her role as a Regional Development Researcher. Melissa provides in-depth research, coaching, and training on regional economic resilience, rural wealth creation strategies, and economic development.
Melissa is a North American Food Systems Network trained AgriCluster Resilience and Expansion (ACRE) facilitator and a WealthWorks coach, facilitator, and trainer. In addition to her professional work, Melissa serves on the Vermont Urban and Community Forestry Council, on the board of the Hinesburg Community Resource Center, and on the Hinesburg Economic Development Committee.
A true outdoorswoman, Melissa enjoys cross country and downhill skiing, paddleboarding, hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as yoga, and teaching Tai Chi.
Program Manager Krishna Kunapareddy began her role with NADO in February of 2023 after 14 years of service at Boonslick Regional Planning Commission in Missouri. Krishna manages NADO Research Foundation’s Planning and Environmental Linkages and Center for Environmental Excellence projects. In addition to researching and writing, Krishna also conducts virtual workshops on innovative tools and techniques related to transportation planning.
She holds an undergraduate degree from Andhra University and a master’s from JNT University in India, as well as a master’s in city and regional planning from the University of Texas at Arlington. Krishna is also a certified Smart Cities Academy Practitioner and holds the Location Advantage certificate from geographic information system software company ESRI.
In her spare time, Krishna volunteers with Mentors4College helping high schoolers better plan for their post-high school paths. She is also a dedicated advocate for documented H4 Dreamers.
Krystal DeLeon joined the NADO team in October of 2020 as Database & Grants Manger, but in January of 2022 transitioned to her current role as Operations Manager. Krystal keeps NADO running through behind the scenes work of invoicing, solving any database issues that may arise, producing membership reports, and much more. Her organizational skills and thorough knowledge help the NADO team operate more efficiently across all departments.
Prior to NADO, Krystal was the Conference Services Coordinator for State Services Organization. She is a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), a licensed realtor, and holds a bachelor’s in psychology from Liberty University. When she’s not keeping NADO’s operations in order, Krystal enjoys running and rock climbing, and adventuring with her husband and son.
Senior Program Manager Bret Allphin joined NADO in April of 2022 bringing with him a wealth of knowledge after a 20-year career with Buckeye Hills Regional Council in Marietta, Ohio. In addition to his bachelor’s in political science and master’s in public affairs, Bret is licensed Geographical Information Systems Professional (GISP). He is NADO’s go-to team member for all things mapping while also supporting members with transportation and economic development technical assistance services.
An avid sports aficionado and former collegiate athlete, Bret enjoys cheering on his Cincinnati Reds, hitting the trails on his mountain bike, and improving his golf game whenever possible. Bret is an involved community member in Marietta dedicating much of his spare time to serving on local nonprofit boards.
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Joe McKinney serves as Executive Director of the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO). Headquartered in Washington DC, NADO provides advocacy, education, research, and training for the nation’s 500+ regional planning and development organizations.
Joe has thirty-one years of experience having served in city, county, regional, national association, and government management since 1991. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Policy Analysis from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a candidate for a master’s degree in Public Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill.
McKinney has provided congressional testimony on numerous occasions regarding the importance of regional development organizations in helping shape the nation’s economic growth. He is nationally recognized for promoting innovative solutions in areas such as planning and economic development, workforce development, transportation and transit, and aging services.