WKEDA HISTORY & ORGANIZATION
The Western Kennebec Economic Development Alliance (WKEDA) is a 501(c)4 non-profit organization that exists "...to promote the overall economic development of the western Kennebec region, including but not limited to, helping in the location or retention of industries and commercial establishment for the benefit of the region's tax base. The corporation may, from time to time, recommend to the town governments in the region, plans for strengthening or increasing the tax base and the industrial, commercial and employment growth of the Region data as to sites, availability of utilities, labor, supply, prospective financing, state and federal assistance and in general carry on a vigorous program for the industrial and commercial growth of the region." --Organizational Bylaws
WKEDA was formed in the early 1980's for the purpose of developing the Winthrop Business Park. Since that time, the programs and service area of the organization have expanded to meet the overall economic development needs of the entire Western Kennebec Lakes region.
WKEDA is an active and healthy organization, which is served by a volunteer Board of Directors, strong General Membership, an Executive Director, five standing committees (Finance, Fundraising, Winthrop Business Park, Nominations & Strategic Planning), and a number of adhoc committees. The purpose of each committee is described below:
The Finance Committee oversees the assets, routine spending, and financial management of WKEDA.
The Fundraising Committee is responsible for raising support from the public and private sectors to fund WKEDA programs and general operating expenses.
The Winthrop Business Park Committee is organized to protect the interests of the business park on Route 202, promote growth, and manage related funds.
The Nominations Committee works to recruit new members to WKEDA's Board of Directors, General Membership, and Committees.
The Strategic Planning Committee plans WKEDA's organizational direction, including the mission, goals, objectives, and appropriate programming.
The Microloan Committee is working to develop a local revolving microloan fund for new and existing local businesses.
Western Kennebec Economic Development Alliance - 10 Cross Road, Suite i - Winthrop, ME 04364
(207) 377-2401 - WKEDAmail@gmail.com
ABOUT WKEDA
