SMEDA Organization and Governance

     The membership of the Southeast Missouri Economic Development Alliance (SMEDA or Alliance) comprises representation from area governments, businesses, and organizations with a vested interest in the area’s economic development. The Alliance is a 501 (c) 6 not-for-profit organization.

     The County Commissions of the six-county area each appoint one member of the Board of Directors, along with an alternate member to help assure full participation. The Regional Business Council (see below) elects five other directors annually. Ex-officio members of the Board include representatives appointed by the University of Missouri, Southeast Missouri State University, Three Rivers Community College, and the Bootheel Regional Planning and Economic Development Commission.

     A significant strength of SMEDA lies in its Regional Business Council, which provides most of the financial resources needed to meet Alliance objectives. Regional Business Council Members are voting members of the organization.

     A significant resource of SMEDA is its Resource Committee, which includes area economic development directors, chamber of commerce officials, representatives of municipal governments, port authorities, small business experts, workforce development organizations, and educational institutions. Resource Committee members act individually and collectively as advisors to SMEDA, and provide a communications link with their respective constituencies. The Committee will meet quarterly to discuss SMEDA plans, actions, and to provide counsel as needed.