Comprehensive Strategy
People across the Panhandle are telling us what matters most. Housing, business growth, infrastructure, and childcare come up in every conversation we have across the region. These are the areas where we focus our time and funding.
What is the CEDS?
The CEDS (Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy) is the regional plan that guides everything we do. It’s built with input from community leaders, business owners, and regional partners, and it’s updated regularly to reflect changing priorities. Every focus area on this page flows from that plan.
Current 2026-2031 CEDS document (PDF)
Previous CEDS plans and reports: 2021 CEDS (PDF) · 2024–2025 Progress Report (PDF)
Comprehensive Strategy
Business & Economic Growth
The Panhandle’s economy depends on local businesses creating jobs and keeping dollars in the community. We provide gap financing, connect business owners to resources, and work with communities to attract and retain employers.
Bayard Got Its Grocery Store Back
Project details: When a community loses its grocery store, people feel it immediately. In a small town like Bayard, the nearest alternative can mean a long drive, and for residents without reliable transportation, it can...
A Broadband Company in Gering Grew Its Business and Added 12 Jobs
Project details: Vistabeam is a wireless internet provider based in Gering. When the opportunity came up to purchase a new building for their broadband facilities, they needed to move fast. The problem was that they...
Looking for business funding and resources?
Housing
Housing inventory across the Panhandle is low, and much of what’s available is aging. We administer workforce housing funds, manage rehab programs, and help communities access the grants that make new construction and renovation possible.
Fifteen Families Got Help Fixing Up Their Homes
Project details: In a region where quality, affordable housing is already in high demand, keeping existing homes in good shape matters. But for many homeowners, the cost of repairs that have been building up for...
New Workforce Housing Is Going Up in Sidney
Project details: Across the Panhandle, employers face workforce shortages, and one of the biggest barriers to recruitment and retention is housing. Available homes are scarce, and much of what’s on the market is aging. Panhandle...
Exploring Housing Development in the Panhandle?
Our regional housing map brings together development opportunities across the entire Panhandle of Nebraska.
Community Projects & Infrastructure
Most communities in the Panhandle are running on infrastructure that’s decades past its life expectancy. We help them secure funding and manage projects from water systems to broadband expansion.
Sidney’s Fox Theater Got Its Marquee Back
Project details: The City of Sidney and PADD secured a Community Development Block Grant for Downtown Revitalization to fund facade improvements across Sidney’s historic downtown district. One of the most visible projects was a new...
Morrill Fixed a Flooding Problem
Project details: The Village of Morrill had long-standing drainage problems. During heavy rainfall, streets, neighborhoods, and public infrastructure all took the hit. PADD helped the Village secure a Community Development Block Grant through the Nebraska...
Childcare
Without childcare, parents can’t work. Without workers, businesses can’t grow. We work with local organizations to expand childcare capacity through grant funding, facility improvements, and community partnerships.
Alliance Is Expanding Childcare So Parents Can Work
Project details: When the pandemic hit, Alliance already had a childcare problem. COVID made it worse. Parents couldn’t find spots for their kids, which meant they couldn’t work, and local employers were feeling the impact....
Have an idea that fits one of these areas?
Every project starts with a conversation. If you see a need in your community, reach out and let’s talk about what’s possible.