
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)
Evansville Regional Economic Partnership
Economic Strategy
The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP) promotes regional economic development and vitality. This organization was created by merging the Southwest Indiana Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana, and the Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville. The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership drives the region’s economic growth, attracts a high-wage and high-skilled workforce, and elevates quality of life.
Fourth Economy was engaged to lead the development of a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) to set the region up to apply for designation as an Economic Development District (EDD). A CEDS and the EDD designation also positions the region to qualify and compete for the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) grant programs.
Our Approach
The Evansville Region’s CEDS was developed by Fourth Economy, in partnership with E-REP and with the support of an EDA grant. The planning process was guided through a 25-member strategy committee and also included 40 stakeholder interviews, 65 participants in 16 workshops, and nearly 200 public comments. The CEDS incorporated existing plans from the region and supports the goals of Talent EVV. It also positions the Evansville Region – encompassing Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh, and Warrick counties – to pursue federal designation as an Economic Development District (EDD).
The RESULTS
The Results
The resulting plan articulated a vision for “An Evansville Region with thriving communities and a resilient, growing economy that supports resident and business growth through investments in people, place, private industry, and public infrastructure.” Plan strategies include developing key regional infrastructure, strengthening key industries, attracting and developing a talented workforce, and leveraging signature developments. To support implementation, strategies are expanded with specific action steps, matched with funding opportunities, and assigned to regional partners. To measure progress, an evaluation framework with metrics for each strategy is included.
Location
Evansville, IN