Building Community Leadership & Opportunity

CEDA partnered with Clearwater County Economic Development (CCED) and Susan Jacobson on initiatives that strengthen community leadership, partnerships, and opportunities throughout Clearwater County.

The Orofino Community Leadership Program, led by Rural Development Initiatives in partnership with CCED, helps residents build leadership skills, identify community assets, develop partnerships, and turn ideas into action. Participants also receive seed funding and ongoing support to advance community projects.

In 2025, CCED was selected from approximately 200 applicants nationwide to receive planning assistance through Recreation Economy for Rural Communities, a program designed to help rural communities strengthen their outdoor recreation economies and Main Street communities. The process engaged more than 30 local residents and stakeholders and resulted in a community action plan identifying opportunities to strengthen Clearwater County’s recreation economy.

These efforts support several goals outlined in CEDA’s recently adopted 2025–30 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for North Central Idaho. CEDA is proud to support CCED and local leaders as they build partnerships, showcase community assets, and create new opportunities for Clearwater County’s future.