Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
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As part of MCOG's Strategic Plan, the region must update the Midcoast Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) Plan (required by the Federal Economic Development Administration; EDA). The CEDS process, necessary for key projects to be eligible for federal funding, will identify a broad array of infrastructure needs to meet the vision, goals, and guiding principles for economic investment in the Midcoast region.
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Staff contact: Max Johnson, mjohnstone@midcoastcog.com.
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Goals
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Accelerate the growth of the Midcoast’s Agriculture and Aquaculture sectors
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Expand job opportunities in the manufacturing and technology sectors across the region
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Increase experiential tourism opportunities which attract new visitors to the Midcoast throughout the year
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Attract and retain young talented people to the region while utilizing the skills and experiences of older talented people in the Midcoast
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Create a resilient regional economy by encouraging diversification in local industries.
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Expand workforce training opportunities for improving accessibility for new Mainers.
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Expand broadband coverage and capability to have at least 80% of the region serviced.
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Grow the 25-44 population
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Increase the adult population with post-secondary education
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Increase the adult population working in the trades industry
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Increase the number of businesses
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Lower the vacancy rate on Main Streets
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Increase affordable and workforce housing opportunities throughout the Midcoast
Mobilize Midcoast Maine
In order to develop the 2021 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, MCEDD, along with the other 6 economic development districts in Maine, are implementing Mobilize Maine – an asset based and community driven approach to economic development.
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The Mobilize Maine initiative is an action-oriented and strengths based approach to economic development. In order to encourage economic growth Mobilize Midcoast Maine focuses on the following:
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1. Promoting private sector participation
2. Leveraging assets unique to the Midcoast
3. Developing measurable benchmarks
4. Utilizing Action Teams composed of people with expertise in key growth sectors
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This new approach to encouraging economic growth is unlike any other economic development initiative undertaken in Maine. It has a proven track record for region in Maine that have begun this work.
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Questions?
Give us a call or an email so we can discuss with you how we can provide these services.