Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (ceds)


           (Click the link to participate!) 
Your input helps shape regional priorities. Community feedback is essential to ensure CEDS reflects the needs, goals, and vision of Whatcom County residents.

What is the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)?

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a federally recognized plan guiding long-term economic growth in Whatcom County. Updated every five years, it outlines regional priorities to support job creation, infrastructure investment, and economic resilience. 

 Maintaining a current CEDS is required to qualify for key state and federal funding, including from the US Economic Development Administration), and ensures local efforts are aligned, strategic, and community driven.

How is Whatcom County planning for its economic future?

The Port of Bellingham is currently leading the update of Whatcom County’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for 2027–2031. This five-year, federally recognized plan will serve as a roadmap for economic growth, infrastructure investment, and community resilience across the region.


Who is involved in the CEDS planning process?

The Port of Bellingham, as the designated Associate Development Organization (ADO) for Whatcom County, leads the 2027–2031 CEDS update. The process is guided by the CEDS External Review Committee, which includes representatives from:

  • All county jurisdictions:

       Whatcom County, Bellingham, Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, Nooksack, Sumas

  • Sovereign tribes (Lummi Nation and Nooksack Indian Tribe)
  • Education and workforce partnerships
  • Non-profit community organizations
  • Public Utility District #1 (PUD #1) and the Whatcom Council of Governments (WCOG)
  • Port of Bellingham economic development staff

What is the timeline for the CEDS planning process?

  • Oct–Dec 2025: Public survey open; private sector and elected stakeholder interviews
  • Nov 2025: Community engagement
  • Jan 2026: Second round of community engagement via public forum
  • Sept–Oct 2026: Public comment period
  • Nov 2026: Final revisions based on feedback
  • Dec 2026: Submit final draft for County Council approval
  • Early 2027: Present approved plan to local government and community


Where can I find the current CEDS (2022-2026)?
The most up-to-date copy of the report will regularly be posted on this webpage: 
 2022-2026 CEDS report. 


 Note: Whatcom County Council approved the CEDS report in November 2021, followed by an amendment in December 2021 setting the reporting period as 2022–2026. The U.S. Economic Development Administration officially approved the plan on April 1, 2022.


How will the public stay informed about progress on the CEDS goals?
The Port of Bellingham releases an annual report highlighting progress on the goals outlined in the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. The report also features updates from partner organizations involved in implementing the strategy across Whatcom County.
 
View the 2024 CEDS Annual Progress Report here.

The 2025 CEDS Annual Progress Report will be posted in January 2026.

CEDS: Questions, comments, or feedback

Email Jennifer Noveck at jennifern@portofbellingham.com.