Economic Development Strategic Plan Consultant

Solicitation #RFP 26-015. Issued by Department of Economic Development. The Cecil County Office of Economic Development (OED) is seeking proposals from qualified consulting firms to develop a comprehensive 2027–2032 Economic Development Strategic Plan. This plan will serve as a forward-looking roadmap for how Cecil County will strengthen its economic position, support business growth, and enhance quality of life over the next five years. Working in partnership with OED, the Cecil County Economic Development Commission, business leaders, and community stakeholders, the selected consultant will: Assess current economic conditions, trends, and opportunities; Identify strategies for business attraction, retention, expansion, and entrepreneurship; Evaluate workforce needs and talent development pipelines; Analyze key sectors including manufacturing, logistics, life sciences, healthcare, tourism, agriculture, and technology; Develop an economic competitiveness strategy that strengthens Cecil County’s position within the region and supports long-term growth; Recommend policies and programs to support inclusive, sustainable economic growth; and Develop a five-year, measurable implementation framework. Cecil County places a strong emphasis on expanding economic mobility and opportunities for all residents. The plan should evaluate how proposed strategies, target industries, workforce initiatives, and development priorities can create pathways to upward mobility, improve family stability, narrow opportunity gaps, and increase long-term prosperity. The final plan should be data-driven, action-oriented, visually compelling, and accessible to a wide audience.