Yes, we're in the top 15% in the country. We're not just bragging, we've got data to back it up. Each year, Policom Inc. compiles economic and demographic data on 576 "micropolitan" areas in the United States. Since 2006, our community has ranked in the top 15%. Check out the ratings here.
Who We Are The Redwood Region Economic Development Commission is a collaboration of Humboldt County communities dedicated to expanding economic opportunity in Humboldt County.
Our Mission Our mission is to expand the capital available to local businesses and organizations and provide leadership in regional economic development.
Our History RREDC was formed in 1977 to create a countywide economic development strategy and to make decisions on the allocation of grant funds given to the County as economic mitigation for the expansion of Redwood National Park. We were Humboldt County’s first economic development loan fund. To date, this fund has made over $18 million in loans to local small businesses. RREDC makes loans to businesses that do not qualify for traditional financing. Interest from the loan program funds RREDC’s operations and adds to the funds available for lending. RREDC receives no outside financial support for its operations.
Thanks to RREDC we were able to acquire the additional necessary money we needed to help capitalize our new business venture after all efforts through commercial lenders were exhausted. RREDC was also very helpful in assisting us with our business plan. All of their personnel are wonderful to work with.
In 2000 when I began planning to purchase a lot and build a custom tofu-manufacturing plant in Arcata's Aldergrove Industrial Park, RREDC provided invaluable professional advice and moral support during the business plan phase, and ultimately, supplemental financing to make the plan a reality. Their continued support since has helped Tofu Shop Specialty Foods survive and thrive.
In 1999, my business partners and I applied for a working capital loan at RREDC. They made it easy and possible for us to start our venture as the new owners of Dalianes Travel.
We were in the midst of a difficult $1,000,000 renovation project after our building got red-tagged for earthquake safety. Banks were leery of loaning to us because our non-profit income stream did not look dependable to them. RREDC had a wider vision and came through for us at a critical moment.
Without RREDC the loan for our business would not be possible. Thanks to them we are in operation today. Thank you for your help.
The Redwood Region Economic Development Commission has been very responsive to individuals and businesses that we have referred to them. The staff is both knowledgable and caring. We have no reservations recommending RREDC to our clients who can benefit from their services.
Ten years ago my husband and I hoped to open a dinner restaurant. No one would lend us for such a "risky" project. We had a great local reputation and 45 combined years of experience in 4 star restaurants. RREDC made it happen for us! Now we are the premier restaurant in our area, creating jobs and training for young people, paying living wages, providing health care benefits and giving back generously to our community. Thank you RREDC for recognizing our potential!
I literally wouldn't be a business owner without the help of RREDC. I was in an unique situation where I didn't qualify for a bank loan and RREDC took a chance on me. I have now owned my audiology practice for nearly 5 years!
RREDC's support has been instrumental in our successes developing additional air service destinations and in providing the necessary airport infrastructure needed for those services.
RREDC not only helped with financing our expansion, they also offered advice and support along the way.
Without RREDC, growing our business would have been nearly impossible. They can help when larger institutions can't.
