WASHINGTON, DC -- The Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded three Partnership Planning Investments totaling more than $212,000 for the purposes of developing and implementing a regional comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS). Awards of approximately $70,000 each will be awarded to the Androscoggin Valley County of Governments, the Eastern Maine Development Commission, and the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments.

"These important investments will help communities across our state to develop a long-term plan to strengthen and reinvigorate their regional economy," said Michaud. "EDA investments like these are vital to helping our communities create new jobs and business opportunities."

EDA CEDS investments help communities to develop an economic development strategy that draws on input from both the public and private sector. Nine Maine counties will be served by these investments:

Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments - $70,000
Androscoggin, Franklin, and Oxford Counties

Eastern Maine Development Commission - $72,000
Penobscot, Piscataquis, Hancock, and Waldo Counties

Kennebec Valley Council of Governments - $70,000
Kennebec, Somerset, and Western Waldo Counties