4-C Economic Development Authority

4cedaThe 4-County Economic Development Authority seeks to bolster the business environment of Southern West Virginia. 4-C EDA is charged with attracting site-selectors who are relocating or expanding businesses, and providing credible lending programs to businesses in need.

  • Problem: 4-C EDA requested a new website that is search engine friendly, maintains visual appeal and incorporates International Economic Development Council site selection data-generating functions.
  • Hypothesis: A search engine-friendly website loaded with current information, regional photography  and success stories would position 4-C EDA as a responsible leader in sustainable economic development across the New River Gorge Region.
  • Execution: WELD researched rural economic development initiatives nationwide to develop unique marketing strategy for economic development. This led to the development of a powerful database to propagate site selection data standards related to cost of living, business taxation, workforce data and quality of life. As a related project, WELD produced high-definition video spotlighting the area's business opportunities and a website promoting the regional airport, identified as a critical component of economic growth.
  • Result: 4-C EDA's website, www.4ceda.org, now demonstrates sustainable top placement in search results for selected terms, and newly installed analytics are gathering data to measure the effectiveness of future marketing efforts.