CEDA works across the three strategic pillars of economic development – People, Place and Business, and our success is underpinned and enabled by the strength of our relationships with our regional and national partners.

Our core objectives, programmes and activities are all aligned to these pillars, and are designed to create the environment, stimulus, outcomes and impact that will power our economic prosperity and achieve our vision for Palmerston North city and Manawatū district.

These key objectives guide the development of our short and medium-term programmes of work as articulated through our Statement of Intent for 2020/21.

People: Attract, retain and develop talent in the region

Kia whakamanea, kia mau, kia whakawhanake i nga taranata o te rohe

Through our data and research, we know that the biggest barrier to business growth in the region is the ability to attract the right people for the job. The development of a talent pipeline for the region that includes the attraction of those with the skills and experience our businesses need, the training and development of the people they already have, the recruitment of domestic and international students to the region, along with an understanding of the future needs of our sectors and businesses is key to the region being able to grow and prosper by 2025, becoming recognised for our exceptional lifestyle and competitive advantages.

Business: Attract, retain and develop business and investment in the region

Kia whakamanea, kia mau tonu, ka whakawhanake i nga pakihi me nga haumi o te rohe

Business development and expansion in the region, and attracting business and investment to the region, is at the core of economic development and at the forefront of CEDA’s objectives for Manawatū to be a leading distribution hub, be recognised as one of the top three agrifood hubs in the world, and a magnet for investment, business and talent. We have a strong competitive edge to achieve these outcomes with our central location, comparatively affordable land and development costs, a diverse labour pool, and a growing culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Place: Profile the region to attract people, business and investment

Tohu ki te rohe hei kukume i te iwi, pakihi me te haumi

Profiling the region to highlight our strengths, our people and our places through a shared regional identity, targeted storytelling and partnerships ensures Palmerston North city and Manawatū district is renowned for its exceptional lifestyle, competitive advantages and is a magnet for investment, business and talent. A coordinated approach to better showcasing the strengths of our region and profiling our successes is key to achieving recognition as one of the top three global agrifood hubs by 2025.

Relationships: Lead inclusive and sustainable economic development for the Region

Te arahi i te whanaketanga ohanga me te pumau mo te rohe

Our work cannot be done in isolation, and the strengths of our region rely on working together to use our combined strengths, connections and skills to compete nationally and globally.  Collaborative relationships and partnerships with key regional and national stakeholders, central and local government, Māori and iwi are key to ensuring our strategic outcomes for the city and district. 

Our Vision and Purpose.

Want to know more about CEDA and the work underway for the region? Find out more here.

Our Partners

Local

Regional

National