Region 9 Economic Development District has begun work on the 2026 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) update for of Southwest Colorado.
The process begins with the Community Well-Being Survey, which will guide upcoming roundtables, workshops and discussions.
Yo participate in the survey, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RYZN6TC.
The CEDS provides a five-year roadmap to guide economic priorities and investments across Archuleta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan counties, as well as the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute tribes.
“The CEDS isn’t just a compliance document; it’s our chance to define what resilience and prosperity look like in our region,” said Audrey Royem, economic development coordinator for Region 9, who is spearheading this effort. “By combining local data with lived experience, we can ensure that investments and strategies truly reflect community needs.”
Community participation is key to creating a sustainable plan forward, and Region 9 is inviting residents, businesses, governments and partners to help shape this vision.
Colorado recently launched its statewide CEDS publication, offering a framework for shared vision and alignment. Building within this framework, Region 9’s process will focus on bringing the most meaningful local challenges and opportunities to the forefront, ensuring that Southwest Colorado’s unique voices are fully represented.
For more information, contact audrey@region9edd.org.