NWEC as the ADO

What Do We Do??

The Northwest Economic Council holds a key position as the designated Associate Development Organization (ADO) for Whatcom County.  As the ADO, there are several core activities that we are responsible for in this Region.  Our five core responsibilities, along with examples of how we are working in our community, are listed below.

-  Readiness & Capacity/Asset Building
   ex:  Host monthly meetings of economic development practitioners
   ex:  Interact with jurisdictions throughout the County
-  Support for Regional Research & Planning
   ex:  Update targeted studies in the County 
   ex:  Currently developing a Regional Economic Strategy
-  Business Retention & Expansion
   ex:  Provide access to a network of resources
   ex:  Assist businesses in finding/obtaining financing
-  Business Startup Assistance
   ex:  Currently working to establish the Innovation Resource Center
   ex:  Provide resources and confidential business counseling
-  Recruitment/Attraction of Businesses
   ex:  Assist business owners in relocation process
   ex:  Respond to inquiries from site selectors

For additional information on the ADO designation and the role that ADOs play in the State of Washington, refer to the links provided below.

2008 ADO Annual Legislative Report
WA State Dept of Commerce Website

Your local Economic Council is committed to providing professional expertise and exceptional experiences that enhance economic opportunities within the Whatcom Region.