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Northwest Arkansas Economic Development District CEDS Update

In February 2023 AEDI began working with the Northwest Arkansas Economic Development District (NWAEDD) to update their Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The CEDS serves as a blueprint for guiding economic development efforts within the region and underscores their commitment to driving innovation and prosperity across Northwest Arkansas.

What region is covered by the NWAEDD?

The 9-county NWAEDD region includes Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Madison, Marion, Newton, Searcy, and Washington counties.

Northwest Arkansas Economic Development District Map

Stats on the NWAEDD region:

  • The total population of the 9-county is approximately 701,180 people
  • The median household income in the region is $60,793
  • The median age of the region is 36.7
  • 64.7% of households in the region are owner-occupied
  • The median home value in the region is approximately $182,831
  • There are seven higher education institutions in the region with enrollment of more than 44,300 students combined

What was the timeline for the development of the CEDS?

The development of the NWAEDD 2024-2028 CEDS was kicked off in February 2023 and submitted to the Economic Development Administration in December 2023. 

Who was involved and what was the process for developing the CEDS?

Through collaborative open discussions involving stakeholders from local and state government, business, education, and community organizations, input was gathered on the direction for the region and a SWOT analysis was developed.

An online survey was also fielded to the CEDS Steering Committee to gain additional input.

The AEDI team worked with the NWAEDD staff to develop informed strategies for fostering sustainable economic growth and prosperity. The AEDI team then researched and crafted feasible action items for the region to pursue.

What was the result of the CEDS?

The NWAEDD 2024-2028 CEDS is a roadmap that guides decision-making, resource allocation, and investment priorities to promote economic prosperity and improve the quality of life for residents in the region. Focus areas for the CEDS include:

  1. Workforce Housing
  2. Workforce Development, Retention, and Education
  3. Healthcare, Law Enforcement, and Human Infrastructure
  4. Regional Infrastructure Improvement

To learn more about the Northwest Arkansas Economic Development District, click here.