Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
Southern Oklahoma Regional Economic Development Plan
The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a long-term, data-driven plan designed to strengthen economic growth, resiliency, and opportunity across Southern Oklahoma. Developed through a collaborative regional planning process, the CEDS serves as a roadmap for building a strong and sustainable economic future.
The strategy guides local governments, businesses, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders in identifying priorities and investing in projects that support regional prosperity.
What Is the CEDS?
The CEDS is a strategy-focused regional economic development plan that outlines goals, priorities, and projects to improve infrastructure, create jobs, and expand economic opportunities. The process is community-driven and encourages collaboration across public and private sectors.
- The CEDS helps:
- Strengthen regional competitiveness
- Identify infrastructure and workforce development needs
- Improve community resilience
- Support business growth and innovation
- Promote long-term economic stability
- Enhance regional coordination and planning
The plan also integrates local, state, federal, and private resources to support economic development throughout the region.
Why the CEDS Matters
A current CEDS is required for eligibility in several federal funding programs. Communities in the Southern Oklahoma region benefit from this plan by gaining access to critical resources and technical assistance.
- Key benefits include:
- Qualification for funding through the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA)
- Improved access to public works and infrastructure grants
- Support for economic recovery and resilience initiatives
- A shared vision and coordinated approach to regional growth
Regions must update their CEDS every five years to remain eligible for EDA programs and maintain designation as an Economic Development District.
Get Involved
We invite residents, business owners, and stakeholders to share their ideas and priorities by completing our short economic development survey. Your feedback helps shape strategies that support job creation, infrastructure improvements, workforce development, and economic resilience.
Economic development is most successful when it reflects the priorities and vision of the community. We encourage participation from local leaders, business owners, and residents throughout Southern Oklahoma.
To learn more about the CEDS or how to get involved, contact the Regional Planning & Development team today.
How SODA Supports Economic Development
The Southern Oklahoma Development Association provides technical assistance, planning expertise, and project support to help communities implement the CEDS and pursue funding opportunities.
- Our services include:
- Strategic economic development planning
- Grant research and application support
- Infrastructure project development
- Regional data and analysis
- Community engagement and collaboration
- Implementation support and reporting
Through these efforts, SODA helps local governments and organizations turn economic strategies into real projects that improve quality of life and strengthen regional economies.