This year, Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA) is celebrating a major milestone: 40 years of living, working, and growing alongside rural communities.
When we first opened our doors back in 1986 as the Southeastern Minnesota Development Corporation, we had a simple, clear mission. Forty years later, our mission hasn’t changed: helping small communities do BIG things. Over the last four decades, CEDA has evolved from a regional initiative into a trusted partner across the region. We’ve rolled up our sleeves alongside local leaders, business owners, and residents to help small communities thrive. Whether it’s securing vital grant funding, building out housing initiatives, guiding community planning, or supporting local businesses, our goal has always been to provide the extra hands and expertise that rural communities need to turn big ideas into reality.
Celebrating Our Journey and Our Partners
An anniversary like this isn’t just about looking at a calendar; it’s about celebrating the people who made this journey possible. Throughout the coming year, we are planning a series of special events, stories, and initiatives to say thank you to our incredible partners and showcase the incredible towns we serve.
Here is a look at what we have in store:
- Community Spotlights: We’ll be sharing some of our favorite collaborative projects from over the years, showing the lasting impact of what happens when a community comes together.
- Throwback Stories & Reflections: A look back at CEDA’s roots, sharing the milestones, challenges, and stories that shaped our organization’s history.
- Partner & Client Appreciation: Special initiatives dedicated entirely to saying “thank you” to the local leaders and organizations who trust us to work alongside them.
- A Featured Annual Meeting Celebration: We’ll be bringing everyone together for a dedicated celebration during our upcoming Annual Meeting.
For additional information regarding the 40-year anniversary events, please visit our website www.cedausa.com
The Work Ahead
While it’s rewarding to look back at how far we’ve come, this anniversary is also a powerful reminder of why our work matters just as much today as it did in 1986.
Rural communities are facing complex, modern challenges. Finding real solutions for housing shortages, childcare deficits, workforce gaps, and changing economic landscapes requires dedication and fresh thinking. CEDA remains entirely committed to navigating these hurdles right by your side, bringing creative strategy and strong, reliable partnerships to the table.
Thank you for being a part of our story for the last 40 years—we can’t wait to see what we build together in the next 40.
