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Serving Carroll, Jo Daviess, Lee, Ogle, Stephenson and Whiteside Counties |
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Blackhawk Hills RC&D Phone (815) 625-3854 |
Economic Development Blackhawk Hills RC&D is a designated Economic Development District (EDD) by the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA). The RC&D office has a very close working relationship with the EDA. Through this agency, we have assisted local governments and public entities in acquiring funds for a variety of economic development activities. The primary interest in EDA funds has always been for construction of the infrastructure needed for development and expansion of business and industry. However, EDA also provides funds for planning and developing strategies. As an EDD, we are responsible for coordinating economic development activities and offering assistance with regional and community economic development efforts throughout the six-county region. The RC&D works with stakeholders throughout the district for a regional approach to economic development. Communities and counties continually seek ways to increase employment and improve the quality of life. Staff can provide a variety of information and resources that may facilitate economic development activities. EDA also provides information and training opportunities for the Blackhawk Hills staff. This is accomplished through traditional annual conferences and through one-on-one consultation with EDA’s regional staff throughout the Chicago-area district. Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) As part of its relationship with EDA, the RC&D has a number of responsibilities which involve accomplishing tasks clearly defined in a written scope of work. Some of the elements of the scope of work are one-time projects, while others are ongoing. The CEDS document is a useful document that describes the region's economic situation, notable developments in the past year, and regional goals and objectives to improve the economy. Goals and Objectives are developed by the CEDS committee, organized and prioritized by the Blackhawk Hills RC&D staff, and then considered and approved by the CEDS Prioritization Committee. A copy of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Plan can be downloaded from the Publications/Press Releases page on our website. |