A CEDS is a roadmap designed to build resilience and diversify the regional economy. The CEDS brings together public, private and philanthropic sectors and the document is required to qualify for future funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and other agencies.

The goal of the Sierra Economic Development District CEDS is to codify a regional strategy to advance prosperity and improve quality of life in communities that are primarily rural and socio-economically and ecologically diverse. This strategy is designed to increase regional economic capacity, diversify local economies, promote broadband, and guide prosperity and resiliency of the area.