Certification of Regional Plans as Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS)

As of April 2025, all 13 Jobs First regional plans have been formall accepted by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) as Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS). CEDS serves as strategic plans for economic development intended to foster regional and public-private collaboration to strengthen and diversify local economies.

This acceptance marks the first time in California’s history that all 482 cities, 58 counties and every community have a federally recognized strategy, creating new opportunities to attract and leverage investments in the implementation of these plans.

The U.S. EDA, along with many other federal agencies, requires an approved CEDS for communities to be eligible for funding from a wide variety of programs that promote economic, infrastructure, and workforce development. The approval of these plans also positions California’s regions to further advocate for financial resources from many funders, including philanthropy, private investors, Community Development Financial Institutions, and Community Reinvestment Act bankers.

Willie Rudman
Deputy Director of Communications
Email, HERE