EDA University Center for Community & Economic Development
The mission of the UM-Flint EDA University Center for Community & Economic Development is to coordinate, inform, and contribute to economic development efforts that (1) cultivate innovation, (2) create a path for proof-of-concept development and commercialization, and (3) provide employer-identified workforce development programs needed to build and sustain a resilient and inclusive economy throughout the I-69 Thumb region of Michigan.
The EDA University Center will receive direction and guidance from:
- Stakeholders who rely on its services and research and
- A Regional Advisory Board, consisting of a representative cross-section of the I-69 thumb region.
Focus Areas
Economic Development
- Applied research to support the work of economic development partners
- Data collection & analysis, freely accessible to the public
- I-69 Thumb Region Comprehensive Economic Development Asset Mapping Platform
- Regional Data Dashboard
Community Development
- Applied research funding to support faculty/student teams
- Faculty/Student teams in 2018’s Applied Research Spotlight and Reports
- Community meetings and focus groups
- Dissemination of information to help strengthen local communities