Countywide Strategic Plan: Advancing Economic Development

Shape the Future of Montgomery County Together

In 2021, the Montgomery County Council passed Bill 10-21, designating the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) to lead the development of a countywide economic strategic plan. Updated every four years, the plan serves as a roadmap to align economic development efforts, drive business growth and job creation, strengthen the talent pipeline, and advance long-term economic resilience and competitiveness for the County.

Economic development is more than business growth. It is the engine that funds and sustains public priorities. As the economy grows, so does the County’s ability to deliver services. A strong, growing economy can strengthen the community and enhance quality of life by expanding tax revenues, creating more job opportunities, and driving investment across our County.

Timeline

In February 2026, the selection of SRI International as a partner to develop the Countywide Economic Development Strategic Plan was announced. The plan is currently underway and is structured across six key phases, including: project initiation and discovery; data and economic assessment; stakeholder and community engagement; development of the vision, goals, and strategic framework; implementation planning and metrics; and the drafting and finalization of the plan.

A final draft of the Countywide Strategic Plan will be delivered to the County Executive by July 31, 2026. Following review, the County Executive will submit the plan, along with any comments, to the Montgomery County Council by December 31, 2026. The Council will then review the plan and associated recommendations, with adoption anticipated in March 2027.

Plan Goals

The 2026 Countywide Strategic Plan is guided by clear, actionable goals designed to drive sustainable growth and opportunity across Montgomery County. These goals focus on creating a thriving, connected, and inclusive economic ecosystem, while enhancing the County’s reputation as a top destination to live, work, and do business:

1. Develop an actionable, evidence-based Economic Development Strategic Plan
2. Strengthen connectivity across Montgomery County’s economic ecosystem
3. Advance an inclusive, resilient, and competitive economy
4. Elevate Montgomery County’s brand as a desirable place to live, work, and do business

Progress Monitor

The progress monitor below provides a real-time view of key project milestones and timelines.

Public Input Survey

Your voice can help inform and shape the Countywide Strategic Plan! As SRI begins work on the development of the next Strategic Plan, we invite you to share your perspectives on Montgomery County’s economy by completing this survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MoCoEDSP_Input available until April 30, 2026.

Get Involved

Your input throughout this process matters. Please use the form below to submit any questions, comments, or feedback at any time