Colorado Unveils Landmark Economic Development Tool

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DENVER ~ Denver, CO - The Rural Opportunity Office, a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), has announced the release of Colorado's first Statewide Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). This five-year strategic action plan was developed with input from communities and economic development partners across the state.

Governor Jared Polis expressed his excitement for the plan, stating that "building a strong economy for Colorado's future requires detailed research, strategy and coordination across local, state, and private partners." He believes that this statewide strategy will support important work in spurring economic development and investment in the state.

The Statewide CEDS is more than just a plan, according to OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman. She believes it is an important tool that will benefit all 64 counties in Colorado, including the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes. Lieberman explains that the plan will help align economic development strategies statewide and lay the foundation for collaboration and a more vibrant economy.

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The 2025 Colorado Statewide CEDS was developed in accordance with U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) guidelines, making it the gold standard for economic development. It continues Colorado's commitment to implementing statewide economic development planning that incorporates regional goals and outcomes. CEDS have also been proven to attract investment and lead to positive outcomes when funding is secured.

Rural Opportunity Office Director Meridith Marshall emphasizes the importance of collaboration in developing this comprehensive plan. She thanks all of the communities and partners who contributed their expertise, experience, and insights to ensure that it represents all corners of Colorado. Marshall believes that by working together towards long-term economic growth, they can create a more resilient future.

The 2025 CEDS builds upon previous commitments to align statewide strategies with regional goals. This includes initiatives such as Colorado's Blueprint 2.0 launched in 2015 and CO|Align, a collective effort to align strategies and enhance economic development efforts across the state. In the past two years, the State of Colorado has also assisted economic development regions in developing and implementing their own regional CEDS, using the framework created by CO|Align. This marks the first time that all of Colorado's regions have completed CEDS, which are currently in implementation.

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The Rural Opportunity Office (ROO) supports rural communities, economic development offices, business support organizations, and small businesses by connecting them to relevant OEDIT programs. The office consists of a director and Rural Opportunity Representatives who serve rural communities across the state.

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado's economy. With the support of Governor Polis and collaboration with economic development partners, OEDIT provides funding, training, consulting, and resources for businesses of all sizes and industries. Their goal is to promote economic growth and job creation while preserving what makes Colorado a great place to live, work, and do business.

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