Institute for Innovation and Economic Development

About iiED

The Institute for Innovation and Economic Development at California State University Monterey Bay provides a venue for innovative ideas, the commercial transfer of research and technology, and a support network with training through a partnership with the Monterey County Business Council. The Institute also provides education, building the knowledge and capacity of economic development professionals, and enhances the health of the region through long-term economic development strategies.

The Institute works with the greater Monterey Bay area in promoting economic development activities, advising government agencies on specific needs such as plant closures, fishery closures, layoffs and other major impacts to the local economy. It also assists counties in Central California by providing the economic data and statistics they require to attract businesses to the area, mentoring, coaching and financing for construction and training as well as other pertinent information.
 

Missions of the Institute:

• Assist in the development of strategic planning, data collection and analysis, feasibility studies and impact studies.
• Pursue an interdisciplinary research initiative to develop information, ideas, and best practices on economic development sustainability in partnership with the Monterey County Business Council.
• Make available students through internships on a project-to-project basis to organizations seeking assistance.
• Explore how communities can take advantage of emerging technologies.
• Conduct a hands-on economic development lab that provides experience to the next generation of economic development professionals.
• Provide on-line references to available university research, resources, and contacts through the Center’s reports and website.
• Present research at local economic development conferences and workshops.