A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a strategy-driven plan for regional economic development that is the result of a regionally-owned planning process. It is designed to build capacity and guide the economic prosperity and resiliency of an area or region.
A strong CEDS is more than just a plan — it is a powerful tool for creating real change. Here is what it can do:
At its core, a CEDS empowers communities to unlock federal EDA resources, draw in new investment, and build a collective roadmap toward lasting economic prosperity. As an agency dedicated to economic mobility, ARC will leverage the CEDS as a strategic foundation to advance and implement impactful policies, programs, and projects.
The Pathways to Opportunity framework reflects our belief that a thriving regional economy must work for everyone — not just some.
In 2025, a study from Harvard economist Raj Chetty ranked metro Atlanta last — 50th out of 50 — among the nation’s largest metro areas for upward economic mobility. Put simply: A child born into a low-income household here has a harder time moving up the economic ladder than in any other large U.S. metro area. Things must change.
Progress is possible. A decade-plus effort in Charlotte, N.C. has helped move that city from last on Raj Chetty’s list to 38th in the 2025 report, changing the life trajectories for many young people and the community.
Economic mobility isn’t just a City of Atlanta challenge. It’s a regional problem that requires a regional solution. That’s why the CEDS is a perfect opportunity to bring diverse leaders and organizations together to tackle this issue.
Proposed CEDS Pillars
Your voice matters. This plan is only as strong as the input behind it. We invite you to:
Together, we are building a region where opportunity is not just available — it is accessible to all.
This is just the beginning of a planning process that will last until Fall of 2027. Stay tuned here for more engagement meetings and events, interactive opportunities, a data dashboard and other resources.
How's the Atlanta region's economy doing? We need your input to help us develop an economic competitiveness strategy that fosters Pathways to Opportunity. Use the interactive tool below to let us know our regional strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This "SWOT" analysis will help guide our planning process.
Click the points on the map to explore data of the existing conditions and local government homepages.
For more information reach out to Keri Stevens [email protected]
ARC’s Strategic Partners are committed to fostering collaborative regional approaches that improve quality of life in metro Atlanta. Their support elevates ARC leadership programs, research and events throughout the year. Learn more.
