TranslateCurrent Initiatives
Find out how the EDC is partnering with our local businesses, community nonprofits, and trade associations to support our key industry sectors in Sonoma County.
Broadband
It has become impossible to lead one’s life, or conduct one’s business without adequate broadband access. Throughout the world broadband is becoming recognized not as a luxury, but instead - a necessity. Unfortunately, rural communities across the nation face economic disenfranchisement and failed economies due to inadequate broadband access.
Creative Sonoma
A division of EDC, Creative Sonoma is dedicated to advancing and supporting the creative community of Sonoma County. They produce programs and provide services that serve the needs of Sonoma County's diverse sector.
EDB 3.0
3.0 Action Plan, will guide future economic development by partnering with community and business organizations to address persistent issues that constrain the local economy. The plan seeks to enhance EDC’s (formerly EDB) foundation of business support by expanding its role as a convener to address specific goals such as increasing the earning potential of residents, encouraging investment in high-value local enterprises, and restoring housing affordability in Sonoma County.
Restaurant Week
Restaurant Week is an annual culinary event, celebrating Sonoma County's restaurant industry. Diners flock to participating restaurants, cafes, and eateries for a special prix fixe menu or sweet perk to take their taste buds on a culinary journey. Each year, an economic impact report is produced to highlight the industry's impact. 2024 saw a $5.5 million impact. To learn more about upcoming Restaurant Week events, visit SoCoRestaurantWeek.org.
Sonoma Mendocino Economic Development District
The Sonoma-Mendocino Economic Development District is a two-county partnership, created through a joint power's agreement in 2015, to engage in regional economic development planning. County leaders recognized an important opportunity to coordinate and pool resources in areas where joint planning can accomplish more for the region’s development than either county’s independent efforts. The District is responsible for overseeing completion and implementation of the Sonoma-Mendocino Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS).
Strategic Sonoma
The Strategic Sonoma Action Plan set the economic priorities for Sonoma County five years post 2017 wildfires. It was the culmination of a year-long effort that included feedback and contributions from over 200 residents, community leaders and business owners. The plan provides an economic roadmap for helping Sonoma County gets back on its feet and identified six key priorities— Housing, Workforce and Education, Business Diversification, Sustainability, Transportation, and Fire Recovery.
Tourism
Tourism is one of Sonoma County's main industry clusters. Sonoma County Tourism (SCT) is the official destination stewardship organization of Sonoma County dedicated to promoting overnight stays and creating a sustainable hospitality economy throughout the region. SCT is a private, non-profit 501(c)6 organization. It is governed by a volunteer board of directors, with input from committees, stakeholders, and the general public. Funding for SCT comes from the Sonoma County's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and the Business Improvement Area assessment (BIA) To learn more, visit SonomaCounty.com.