A partnership between the American Planning Association (APA) Colorado chapter and the Economic Development Council of Colorado (EDCC) is a significant collaboration that unites two key disciplines—urban and community planning and economic development—to build a vibrant and prosperous future across Colorado. This new partnership is founded on a shared mission to build strong, resilient, and thriving communities throughout the state. By joining forces, APA Colorado and EDCC can align their expertise and resources to tackle complex challenges.
Strategic Collaboration in Action
The organizations will leverage each other’s events and educational programs, including workshops, conferences, and webinars, to offer a blended perspective on planning and economic development. These programs will provide valuable insights and professional development for members of both groups. Furthermore, the collaboration will focus on policy and advocacy, with both parties working together to support state-level legislation that promotes sustainable and inclusive community building.
Why This Partnership Matters
This collaboration represents a forward-thinking move to break down traditional silos between planning and economic development. Historically, these two fields have operated independently, often leading to misaligned goals and inefficiencies. This new partnership aims to change that by fostering a culture of cooperation and shared purpose. It allows planners to better understand the realities of economic development within their communities and helps economic developers appreciate the critical role of thoughtful, long-range planning.
By combining forces, APA Colorado and EDCC are poised to have a greater collective impact on the state’s economic landscape, ensuring that Colorado’s path forward is not only robust but also well-planned, equitable, and sustainable for years to come.