Economic Development

EDFC Projects and Programs

As the coordinator for Economic Development in Mendocino County, EDFC engages in a number of projects to implement economic development. Some of our current projects include:

ZoomProspector – EDFC received a grant from the USDA to pilot the use of an online tool to support economic development in the county. ZoomProspector provides a mapping tool that allows start-up and existing business owners to view available properties in Mendocino County along with zoning information, market data, and demographics. This comprehensive tool is designed to support business start-up, expansion, and relocation in Mendocino County. Search now!

Economic Recovery and Resiliency Planning – EDFC is currently working with the County of Mendocino on developing an Economic Recovery and Resiliency Plan in response to the 2017 Redwood Valley Fire. The plan is expected to be complete in April, 2020 at which time, EDFC will turn its attention to implementation of identified projects and strategies that build economic resiliency in our communities.

Direct Public Offering – In 2015, responding to a lack of access to capital in the community. EDFC’s Board of Directors developed a Direct Public Offering (DPO) which provided a format for local investors to support local businesses. Between 2015 and 2016, EDFC raised over $350,000. The funds were used to support the Mendocino Wool and Fiber Project. EDFC is not accepting new investors at this time. For more information about the DPO or to find out about local investing, please contact our office.

Broadband – EDFC has worked with local jurisdictions to support broadband development in the county. In addition to authoring the Digital Infrastructure Plan, EDFC has worked as the coordinator for the Broadband Program. The Mendocino County Broadband Program is currently being coordinated by the County of Mendocino Planning and Building Services.