Community & Economic Development
Community & Economic Development
The Cumberland County Community & Economic Development program provides communities with the resources, education, and support needed to address locally identified challenges. Through research-based information and collaborative problem-solving, this program empowers communities to make informed decisions and implement effective solutions for long-term growth and sustainability.
Community & Economic Development Defined
Community and economic development are two closely related concepts that shape the growth and well-being of a region. While both aim to improve the quality of life for residents, they focus on different aspects of progress. Community development encompasses a broad range of initiatives designed to enhance social, cultural, and physical aspects of a community, while economic development focuses on strengthening the local economy by creating jobs, attracting businesses, and fostering financial growth. Understanding these terms helps communities work toward sustainable and purposeful improvements.
What is Community Development?
Community development refers to the process of bringing people together to create positive, intentional change in their community. It involves collaborative efforts to improve local conditions related to education, healthcare, infrastructure, governance, social services, and more. Whether through small grassroots initiatives or large-scale projects, community development ensures that residents have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.
Key aspects of community development include:
- Public Engagement: Encouraging community members to participate in decision-making and planning.
- Quality of Life Improvements: Enhancing access to education, healthcare, and recreational opportunities.
- Civic Leadership & Collaboration: Partnering with local organizations, government agencies, and businesses to address community needs.
- Infrastructure & Housing Development: Investing in roads, utilities, housing, and public spaces to support a vibrant community.
At its core, community development is about fostering a sense of belonging and shared responsibility while creating long-term solutions that benefit all residents.
What is Economic Development?
Economic development focuses on growing the local economy by attracting businesses, creating job opportunities, and increasing financial stability. It involves strategic investments in workforce development, business support, and infrastructure to encourage long-term prosperity.
Key components of economic development include:
- Business Retention & Expansion: Supporting existing businesses while attracting new industries.
- Workforce Training & Development: Ensuring residents have the skills needed for well-paying jobs.
- Entrepreneurship & Small Business Growth: Providing resources and funding opportunities for startups.
- Tourism & Outdoor Recreation: Leveraging natural resources and attractions to boost the local economy.
- Infrastructure & Investment: Enhancing transportation, broadband access, and utilities to support business growth.
A strong economy fuels community development by providing financial resources, employment opportunities, and stability. Together, community and economic development work hand in hand to ensure a thriving and resilient Cumberland County.
Who is Involved in Community & Economic Development Locally?
Community scale changes benefit from representation from the community scale systems. Do you know which people in your community have roles to play in community & economic development (CED)? It is important to understand that CED is a shared effort among several stakeholders, and Extension can play an vital role. Here are just a few who may be in your community:
- Local government
- Civic groups
- Local business or Chamber of Commerce
- Economic development/banking or foundations
- Religious institutions
- Education systems (from primary and secondary to university/formal and informal)
- Health (can include public/private)
- Recreation
Development initiatives that impact everyone in a community are supported more broadly and more sustainably when the members of the community are represented and engaged in the process. While it is nearly impossible to have every person involved in every decision, it is generally true that people like to be involved in decisions that impact them. Thus, development initiatives should utilize processes that promote broad participation and strive for justice, equity, and sustainability.
