Prince William Sound Economic Development District

PWSEDD’s Organization

Prince William Sound Economic Development District, a regional non-profit organization, represents the communities of Chenega Bay, Cordova, Tatitlek, Valdez and Whittier.  PWSEDD is one of 12 Alaska Regional Development Organizations (ARDORS) http://www/dced.state.ak.us/econdev/ardor.htm and receives funding from the Alaska State Legislature.  Originally an economic development council, the organization was granted Federal Economic Development District status in 2001. PWSEDD has an Economic Development Administration, U. S. Dept. of Commerce approved, Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, to guide the region’s immediate and long range planning.

Prince William Sound Economic Development District was founded in 1991, by local business and civic leaders from the five communities, to work collectively in advancing responsible economic development in this scenic coastal region of Alaska.  PWSEDD focuses on small business development, the fishing industry, tourism, transportation and workforce development  

All five communities are involved in environmental concerns and the safe transport of oil, as Valdez is the terminal for the Trans-Alaska pipeline. The Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Trustees have provided funding for many projects in the region, including safe transport of oil, monitoring air and water quality and a variety of natural resource issues.  PWSEDD has provided management services for many of these projects.

PWSEDD is a membership organization comprised of municipal members, such as cities, towns, village and tribal councils, as well as non-profits, small businesses and corporate entities.  Membership in PWSEDD provides public and private sectors the opportunity to meet and discuss vital issues important for the region’s growth and sustainability.