Group wants to update plans for county economic strategy

The Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County is spearheading an effort to update the county's sevenyearold Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, a document that addresses the county's economic assets and obstacles and is designed to be part of an ongoing economic development planning process.

The strategy provides documentation for the Economic Development Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce and is needed to apply for federal grants to fund projects within the county. To date, the administration has awarded more than $15 million to projects countywide. For future funding, a current strategy needs to be in place.

To complete the document, the collaborative assembled 55-member committee of representatives from the county, local cities, schools, communitybased groups and business leaders. The committee and subcommittees will create a thorough analysis, vision, action plan and evaluation for the county's projected economic development.

The strategy should be completed in about six months and will be presented to both the collaborative's board and county board of supervisors for approval.

The Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County is a private, nonprofit organization that serves as a business-to-government liaison. It offers programs that enhance the economic vitality of the region. The Business Enhancement Program, known as Business 911, is the organization's flagship program and provides free turnaround assistance to small businesses.

For more information about Business 911 and other services available to small businesses through the collaborative, call Michele Pettes at (805) 384-1800, ext. 21, email michele.pettes@edcvc.com or visit www.edc-vc.com.