The Economic Development Program of the Council consists of economic development
planning and tourism promotion activities.
The U.S. Economic Development Administration designated the region as an Economic Development District in 1978. The primary function of the North Central Florida Economic Development District is to create and update the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for the region. The Strategy provides the framework by which economic development projects in the region qualify for grant funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration. The Strategy is developed by the Strategy Committee which is comprised of regional economic development and workforce development professionals.
In addition, the Council provides technical assistance to local governments and economic development organizations in order to promote economic growth. The Council provides economic impact modeling services and grant procurement and administration services for federal and state economic development infrastructure funding to these entities.
The Original Florida Tourism Task Force is comprised of representatives from each of the participating counties to oversee and direct a regional tourism promotion effort. The Task Force promotes the region for eco-based, cultural-based and heritage-based tourism.
As part of promoting Visit Natural North Florida area, the Task Force conducts print and digital advertising campaigns, attends travel shows, publishes an e-newsletter, and distributes brochures at Florida Welcome Centers, chambers of commerce and tourist development councils.