Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

The Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments’ Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a regional, five‐year plan, bringing together private and public interests to create a guide for economic development in Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Marion, and Winston Counties. The CEDS encompasses a broad range of important initiatives to define the economic development landscape of northwest Alabama, and to direct NACOLG in its role as the local Economic Development District. The CEDS acts as a guide to help create jobs, attract public and private investments, promote a more stable and diversified economy, and improve living conditions in the region. The plan sets forth specific goals and objectives designed to address various economic challenges within the region. A CEDS Committee – comprised of local government officials, workforce training providers, chambers of commerce, economic development authorities, institutions of higher education, and community leaders – meet as needed to review and prioritize economic development projects. The CEDS Committee assists in the implementation, development and revision of the CEDS document. NACOLG staff updates the regional CEDS annually and submits a revised CEDS to the Economic Development Administration every five years for review and approval.

Department Contacts:

Peggy D. Mighty, M.S., M.U.R.P, Community Development Specialist/Planner
pmighty@nacolg.org
256-389-0533

2022-2026 Community Economic Development

A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for Lauderdale, Colbert, Franklin, Marion, and Winston Counties

Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy?

A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, commonly called a CEDS, is a regional plan that establishes economic priorities, goals and strategies for long-term growth.

NACOLG’s CEDS guides economic development efforts across Northwest Alabama.

What is the purpose of the Northwest Alabama CEDS?

The CEDS provides a coordinated framework for:

  • Creating and retaining jobs

  • Attracting public and private investment

  • Supporting a stable and diversified economy

  • Improving living conditions

  • Addressing regional economic challenges

  • Prioritizing economic development projects

What counties are included in the CEDS?

The Northwest Alabama CEDS covers:

  • Colbert County

  • Franklin County

  • Lauderdale County

  • Marion County

  • Winston County

How does the CEDS benefit Northwest Alabama?

The CEDS helps communities work toward shared economic goals instead of planning projects in isolation. It identifies regional needs, supports cooperation and helps direct investments toward projects that may create lasting benefits.

Who develops the CEDS?

NACOLG staff develops and updates the CEDS with guidance from the regional CEDS Committee and other public and private partners.

Who serves on the CEDS Committee?

The committee includes representatives from:

  • Local governments

  • Workforce-training providers

  • Chambers of commerce

  • Economic development authorities

  • Colleges and universities

  • Community organizations

  • Other regional leaders

What does the CEDS Committee do?

The CEDS Committee helps develop, implement and revise the regional strategy. Members also meet as needed to review economic conditions and prioritize economic development projects.

How often is the CEDS updated?

NACOLG updates the regional CEDS annually. A revised five-year strategy is submitted to the U.S. Economic Development Administration for review and approval every five years.

Why is the CEDS submitted to the Economic Development Administration?

NACOLG is the federally designated Economic Development District for the region. The CEDS supports that designation and provides the U.S. Economic Development Administration with a locally developed framework for addressing regional economic needs.

What types of projects may be included in the CEDS?

Projects may address priorities such as:

  • Business and industrial development

  • Job creation and retention

  • Workforce development

  • Infrastructure improvements

  • Transportation

  • Community facilities

  • Broadband access

  • Downtown and community revitalization

  • Economic resilience

  • Quality-of-life improvements

Projects must support the region’s economic goals and meet applicable planning requirements.

How can a community submit a project for consideration?

Local governments and eligible community partners should contact NACOLG’s planning staff. Be prepared to provide a project description, estimated cost, location, community need, expected benefits and possible funding sources.

What information is used to prioritize projects?

The CEDS Committee may consider factors such as:

  • Regional and local need

  • Potential for job creation or retention

  • Community impact

  • Project readiness

  • Available local support

  • Infrastructure needs

  • Consistency with regional goals

  • Potential eligibility for funding

Does inclusion in the CEDS guarantee project funding?

No. Inclusion in the CEDS does not guarantee a grant, loan or other financial award. Funding agencies use their own eligibility requirements and competitive review processes.

Can a project receive funding if it is not listed in the CEDS?

Requirements vary by funding program. Some economic development opportunities may require a project to align with or be included in the regional CEDS. Communities should contact NACOLG early to discuss project eligibility and planning requirements.

How does the CEDS help attract investment?

The strategy documents the region’s needs, assets and priorities. This gives public agencies, businesses, developers and community partners a clearer understanding of where investment may support economic growth.

Does the CEDS address economic resilience?

Yes. A strong CEDS helps communities prepare for economic disruptions, adapt to changing industries and develop a more stable and diversified regional economy.

Can businesses participate in the CEDS process?

Yes. Private businesses and industries are important regional stakeholders. Their knowledge of workforce, infrastructure, supply-chain and market needs can help shape effective economic-development priorities.

Can residents and community organizations provide input?

Residents, nonprofit organizations and other community stakeholders may have opportunities to contribute information or feedback during CEDS development and updates. Contact NACOLG for information about current meetings, surveys or public-comment opportunities.

What communities are served by the Northwest Alabama CEDS?

The strategy supports communities throughout Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Marion and Winston counties.

This includes Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, Tuscumbia, Russellville, Red Bay, Hamilton, Winfield, Haleyville, Double Springs and other Northwest Alabama communities.

Where can I read the current CEDS?

The CEDS document is available through the NACOLG Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy page.