Explore Proven Models and Practical Tools for Regional Impact
UEDA offers a collection of publications developed by leaders in university-based economic development. These publications feature real-world examples, case studies, and proven strategies that reflect current practices across regions and institutions. Created with the support of our partners, this library serves as a valuable resource for practitioners looking to strengthen their programs, build regional partnerships, and align campus assets with economic growth objectives. Whether you’re seeking guidance, inspiration, or a model to adapt, these publications are designed to support your work in advancing regional impact through higher education.
University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension & Western Arkansas Planning and Development District Case Study
This case study for the NADO EDD Community of Practice features the partnership between the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension and the Western Arkansas Planning and Development District. The partnership highlights how coordinated efforts in training, data sharing, and community facilitation have evolved into a scalable, locally rooted model for university–EDD partnerships.
Engines of Growth: Higher Education in Economic Development, UEDA Member Report
UEDA is proud to share the results of its 2025 Membership Survey, a sector-wide snapshot of the activities and priorities of member colleges and universities.
Regional Economic Development with EDA University Centers
Over an 18-month engagement, UEDA, with support from EDA, and Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement, studied how EDA-designated University Centers (UCs) operate, sharing best practices, and identifying strategies to amplify regional impact.
University of Tennessee and Upper Cumberland Development District Case Study
This case study for the NADO EDD Community of Practice features the partnership between the University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services and Upper Cumberland Development District. The partnership supports sustainable community and workforce development across Tennessee’s regions.
University of Oregon and Northeast Oregon Economic Development District Case Study
This case study for the NADO EDD Community of Practice features the partnership between the University of Oregon’s Institute for Policy Research and Engagement and the Northeast Oregon Economic Development District University of Oregon. The partnership has demonstrated how universities and EDDs can collaborate to promote economic capacity, disaster preparedness, and workforce development.
Higher Education Engagement in Economic Development: Foundations for Strategy and Practice
APLU and UEDA produced this report to inspire institutions to reinvent the relevant college or university for the 21st century and to think more comprehensively about how economic development and engagement activities connect to each other and to an institution’s core mission activities.
Virginia Tech & New River Valley Regional Commission Case Study
This case study for the NADO EDD Community of Practice features the partnership between Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement and the New River Valley Regional Commission. The partnership strengthens the Southwest Virginia region by increasing the capacity both organizations have, reducing the duplication of efforts, and advancing towards mutual goals.
Utah Tech, Southern Utah University, Five County Association of Governments, & Six County Association of Governments
This case study for the NADO EDD Community of Practice features the partnership between EDDs and post-secondary educational providers on display in southern Utah. The partnership showcases the opportunities that may arise for an EDD by partnering with local universities by having greater access to expertise and resources.
Momentum: UEDA and Economic Development Ecosystems
Funded by the Lemelson Foundation to strengthen ecosystems, the project was a pilot of UEDA’s plans for an Ecosystems Design Network. This report covers the progress of the process, outcomes, and recommendations.
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