Robert joined the CEDA team in 2019 (and rejoined in 2021). He is a graduate of Carleton College and holds a B.A. in Environmental Studies with a specialty in development and conservation. As an undergrad, Robert was the co-founder and director of Heart of the Heartland, a workforce development initiative focused on agriculture in southern Minnesota.

Prior to joining CEDA, Robert worked for the largest regional chamber of commerce in MN as the Public Policy and Employer Engagement Manager. In this role, he extensively engaged stakeholders from the private, public and nonprofit sectors to advance priorities related to transportation, housing and workforce development in the metro region.

Robert’s goal is to bring a holistic and creative lens to community and economic development.

Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA) announces
the promotion of Robert Harris III to Director of Strategic Initiatives. Mr. Harris III will continue in his community work serving the community of Mapleton,
Minnesota as well as serving as part of the CEDA Government Relations Department. He will also continue to work closely in the CEDA Entrepreneurial effort called RBIL – the
Rural Business Innovation Lab. His duties will also include working closely with external
partners to move forward a range of strategic initiatives.