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ERDA requests level funding, highlights talent programs, grants and retail outreach
Summary
Economic development staff sought the same funding level as last year and described business retention/expansion work, scholarships, grant activity and new member services to support recruitment and retention.
The Enid Regional Development Alliance (ERDA) presented its fiscal 2025-26 request to commissioners, asking to retain the same funding level as last year while outlining staff activities in business retention, talent recruitment and retail attraction.
ERDA leadership said the organization adopted a strategic plan focused on business retention/expansion, recruitment, quality-of-life partnerships and operational efficiency. Staff highlighted a Work Enid scholarship program administered through the Cherokee Strip Community Foundation offering up to $10,000 over 2.5 years for individuals who relocate to Enid and that four scholarships were awarded in the previous cycle.
ERDA reported ongoing grant activity that supports local businesses and workforce programs; staff listed a pending USDA microenterprise grant of $160,000 and said the microenterprise fund the commission invested in last year will reach $20,000 spent by June 30. ERDA also described a business-membership property-listing service, a May 22 "Biz Boost" session for local companies and restored programming for women in business and young professionals.
ERDA staff said the agency is tracking return on investment for retention and expansion work and will continue to provide monthly reports to its board and the commission. The commission did not change ERDA's proposed funding at the meeting.
