National Association of Development Organizations (NADO)

FreeCommunity & Government Resourcesnado.org

Represents regional development organizations that administer federal and state economic development funding, including small business loan programs, at the local level.

In plain terms: This national association supports local agencies that manage regional economic development and community programs. You can find your local development district, access training webinars and research, and search for regional planning and development job openings.

#community-resources #federal #free #funding #government #loans #organization #regional-development #resources #rural

Visit nado.org

Coach's summary

Regional development orgs are where rural and small-town loan programs actually live.

NADO represents regional development organizations that deliver federal and state economic programs to local communities. Use its maps and resources to connect with regional development districts and find local business assistance initiatives.

Key programs

EDD Community of Practice
A collaborative network providing webinars, peer learning, and capacity-building resources for Economic Development Districts across the nation.
CEDS Central
A resource hub offering guidance, data tools, and best practices for creating and implementing Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies.
Rural Energy Academy
A training and educational initiative helping regional organizations and rural communities navigate energy-related economic development.
Rural Transportation Resources
Technical guidance and resource collections for regional development organizations and rural planning organizations managing local transportation initiatives.

What to look for

Consult the EDD Map or Member Map to identify your local regional development district.
Check the Jobs and Opportunities board for employment openings in regional economic development.
Access Resource Center webinars covering revolving loan funds, business development, and workforce training.

Relevant links

NADO Homepage

Similar organizations

/dev/colorNonprofit community advancing the careers of Black software engineers through peer accountability groups.

A-SpeakersInternational speakers bureau headquartered in Denmark with US and UK offices, claiming 1,000+ client organizations and access to thousands of speakers worldwide.

ACE NextGenNational community for the next generation of Asian American entrepreneurs and small business owners, with local chapters, events, and peer mentorship.

Ada Lovelace InstituteUK-based independent research institute (established by the Nuffield Foundation) ensuring data and AI work for people and society.

Recommended next

Hand-picked from the hub based on what National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) covers.

OrganizationFreesba.gov

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

This federal website helps you start, fund, and grow a small business. You can explore loan options, find local counseling and training, and get certified for government contracting opportunities.

Why this: Covers community resources and federal too

OrganizationFreembda.gov

Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)

Federal agency dedicated exclusively to the growth of minority-owned businesses, funding a national network of Business Centers offering free counseling on capital, contracts, and markets.

Why this: Covers community resources and federal too

OrganizationFreeomidyar.com

Omidyar Network

This philanthropic investment firm focuses on responsible technology and its impact on society. You can check their careers page to search for open jobs and learn about their work.

Why this: Covers free and funding too

OrganizationFreefordfoundation.org

Ford Foundation

This global foundation funds organizations and individuals working on social issues, workers' rights, and technology. You can search for grant opportunities, apply for fellowship programs, and read research reports on the future of work.