Center for Economic and Community Development
Driving Impactful Research. Supporting Stronger Communities.
At the Center for Economic and Community Development (CECD), we connect research with real-world outcomes to help communities across Pennsylvania and beyond thrive. As part of Penn State's Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology, and Education, we engage students as active partners in applied research and community-based initiatives that support local and regional development. By working alongside faculty, staff, and community stakeholders, students develop practical skills, professional networks, and leadership experience while contributing to impactful, data-driven solutions.
Whether you're a policymaker, community leader, nonprofit professional, or engaged resident, our work is designed to help you better understand and respond to the economic, demographic, and social changes shaping your community.
What We Do
- Conduct research on topics such as rural economies, broadband access, small business ecosystems, and workforce development
- Collaborate with local leaders to design practical solutions tailored to regional needs
- Provide accessible data and tools to support informed decision-making
- Offer workshops, publications, and technical assistance to empower communities at all levels
Why Work With the CECD?
The Center for Economic and Community Development (CECD) partners with communities, scholars, and institutions to address complex social, economic, and environmental challenges through applied, community-engaged research. Our work is grounded in collaboration, mutual learning, and a commitment to equity, democracy, and justice.
We serve as a connector and incubator, bringing together faculty, extension educators, students, community organizations, and policymakers to co-create knowledge that is both rigorous and actionable. Whether you are seeking research collaboration, student engagement, or community-university partnership, the CECD offers a supportive environment to turn shared questions into meaningful impact.
