Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the Eastern Shore of Virginia

The Accomack-Northampton Planning District Commission is seeking a consultant to update its Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for the Eastern Shore of Virginia, covering the period from 2027 to 2031. This update follows the previously adopted 2022–2026 CEDS, which consolidated earlier plans into a unified regional strategy. The consultant will be responsible for guiding a collaborative process to revise the CEDS, with a focused emphasis on five key economic sectors: Aerospace, Agriculture/Aquaculture, Forestry/Timber, Visitor Services, and Health Care. The goal is to ensure the region's economic development priorities remain relevant, data-driven, and aligned with current and emerging opportunities. The solicitation, numbered RFP-124585, was posted on July 17, 2026, with a response deadline of August 7, 2026. The commission, operating under the state of Virginia, is inviting qualified firms to submit proposals to assist with research, stakeholder engagement, data analysis, and strategic planning activities necessary to produce a federally compliant CEDS update. All work will be performed within Virginia, and inquiries should be directed to Sherry Dudas at the provided contact information. The process aims to strengthen regional economic resilience and foster sustainable growth through coordinated planning and targeted investments in priority industries.