WHO WE ARE
The Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC) is a nonprofit that equips community leaders, policymakers, and practitioners with the insight and tools to solve today’s economic challenges. Since 2000, we have helped regions strengthen workforce systems, advance economic development strategies, and shape data-informed public policy.
OUR VISION
We believe thriving economies are built on smarter strategy, inclusive growth, and leaders who know how to act on data. CREC was founded to support innovative approaches to job creation and regional competitiveness — and we continue to bring that vision to life by applying our core principles in every project.
OUR PRINCIPLES IN ACTION
We believe thriving economies are built on smarter strategy, inclusive growth, and leaders who know how to act on data. CREC was founded to support innovative approaches to job creation and regional competitiveness — and we continue to bring that vision to life by applying our core principles in every project.
Enhancing Understanding: We provide a data-driven picture of regional economies so that a holistic picture can guide planning.
Planning for the Future: We help regions design forward-looking strategies built on consensus.
Setting a New Course: We deliver fresh perspectives and realistic strategies for growth.
Empowering Leaders: We build leaders’ capacity to act with confidence.
HOW WE HELP REGIONS COMPETE
Through research, training, and strategic guidance, CREC strengthens regional economies with:
- Research & Data Analysis – Turning data into actionable insights
- Technical Assistance & Training – Equipping leaders with new skills
- Strategic Leadership & Policy Guidance – Aligning partners for real-world impact
OUR NETWORKS
Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER)
Promoting excellence and leadership among practitioners in support of community, economic, and workforce research.
LMI Institute
Advancing the use of labor market information and workforce intelligence in support of decision-making related to workforce development, economic development, education, and other relevant policy areas.
Projections Managing Partnership (PMP)
Maintaining the national infrastructure for the production of state and sub-state industry and occupational employment projections.
University Economic Development Association (UEDA)
Connecting our members — higher education institutions, private sector businesses, and economic development organizations — to resources that facilitate economic growth in their communities.
Development Districts Association of Appalachia (DDAA)
Supporting Local Development Districts in building healthy, prosperous, diverse, and resilient communities across the Appalachian Region.
State Economic Executives (SEDE) Network
Fostering a forum for principal State economic development officials to exchange information, learn from one another, and advance the practice and impact of state economic development across the U.S.