About ECIEDD
The East Central Illinois Economic Development District (ECIEDD) is comprised of Champaign, Douglas, Ford, Iroquois, Piatt, and Vermilion Counties. In its 4,355 square miles, the District has an estimated population of 358,713, or about 2.7% of the state population.
The District has identified six primary goals for furthering quality economic development. These goals reflect national and state interests and accentuate the unique qualities of the six-county area. Key concepts of these goals include:
- Maintenance, modernization, and expansion of transportation and utilities infrastructure;
- Promoting better employment opportunities and business expansion;
- Sustainable growth and development through public-private partnerships and other resources;
- Promoting emerging technologies and interagency communication and coordination;
- Improving upon the existing quality labor force; and
- Protecting the District's natural resources.
Strategies for the ECIEDD in achieving these goals include implementing projects that foster quality of life and further investment in the community, enhancing relationships with agencies and all levels of government, and continually seeking funding for research, new technologies and construction of essential infrastructure. The ECIEDD intends to constantly and positively evolve its economic development initiatives in light of changing times and needs.