One of MVPC’s many initiatives includes developing and implementing a five year regional economic strategy, housed within the Community and Economic Development department of the Commission. The strategy, known as the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is supported by the U.S. Economic Development Administration. The CEDS is the guiding economic development document for the region created with input from stakeholders throughout the Valley. 

On February 27th MVPC held its quarterly CEDS meeting at New England Die Cutting (NEDC) in Methuen. NEDC evolved from a garage in Haverhill with a few manual die-cutting machines to a 70,000 square foot facility that facilitates solutions through high quality products utilized in computers, telecommunications, spacecraft, missiles, aircraft, radars, and consumer electronics. NEDC Sealing Solutions now deals with military, medical, aerospace, and consumer markets. NEDC is an SBA, woman-owned business that employs over 55 people and has been run since 1999 by Kimberly and Dave Abare.

Visiting NEDC was an opportunity for workforce development leaders, education leaders, municipal planners, chambers of commerce, and real estate professionals to spend time on a successful, advanced manufacturing floor to discuss the challenges and successes they have. As MVPC moves forward with implementing the Merrimack Valley Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, we will continue connecting with businesses, institutions, and workers to ensure that we create a more resilient, equitable, and prosperous region.