The Tribe’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) was presented to Southern Ute tribal elders on Thursday, Aug. 9, by David Eppich, Economic Development Manager for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s Permanent Fund and the Tribe’s Director of Strategic Planning, Eric Thayer.
Thursday’s meeting was the first of two presentations, intended to both inform and invite feedback for improvement and implementation of the CEDS document. The next session will be held Thursday, Aug. 23 and is open to all Southern Ute Tribal members, in order to generate more input.
The CEDS is an aspect of economic development for the Permanent Fund, with a five-year implementation of the goals and objectives outlined. It will be the foundation for economic projects and grant funding, available to Southern Ute tribal members.
“The resources are out there, they are available, and they want to be used,” Eppich said, encouraging the membership to utilize this opportunity for personal business ventures and economic development.
The regional Economic Advisors Panel (EAP) was on hand to answer questions, and hear comments from the membership and members of Southern Ute Tribal Council. The EAP, a cross functional collaborative group, has been working closely on the development of the plan, which is still in the comment period.
How do we set people up for success? Thayer asked. “This is the framework for what will eventually become the plan. We want to make sure that you have the resources to start your own businesses.”
The next meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 23 in the Southern Ute Growth Fund conference room, 1st. floor.