Join the KEDC Board and Shape Kodiak’s Future
Are you prepared to contribute to Kodiak’s growth and prosperity? The Kodiak Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) is seeking dedicated community members to join our Board of Directors. This volunteer opportunity offers a meaningful way to guide the economic future of our island, ensuring it remains a vibrant, thriving place for all residents. Whether you are a longtime resident with deep roots or a newer member of our community eager to contribute, we value your voice and vision. Applications are open now, and we look forward to welcoming fresh perspectives to our team.
What Is an Economic Development Organization?
An Economic Development Organization (EDO) like KEDC works to strengthen and diversify a community’s economy. We focus on creating opportunities that benefit businesses, residents, and industries alike. This involves promoting sustainable growth, supporting entrepreneurship, and addressing challenges that hinder our community, such as housing shortages, workforce needs, and business vitality. For Kodiak, KEDC serves as a catalyst, bringing together local leaders, organizations, and citizens to build a more resilient island economy. From revitalizing downtown through programs like the Storefront Improvement Program to planning for workforce readiness with initiatives like the Career Expo, we are committed to making Kodiak a place where people can live, work, and thrive.
How KEDC Helps Our Island
Kodiak faces unique opportunities and challenges, and KEDC is positioned to address them effectively. Consider an island where local businesses flourish with support and resources, where housing becomes more accessible for our workforce, and where young people find pathways to meaningful careers locally. This is the vision we pursue. Through strategic projects, such as developing a Housing Action Plan to address our housing crisis or fostering mariculture to create new jobs, KEDC is laying the groundwork for long-term success. We collaborate with partners to turn ideas into action, ensuring our efforts reflect the needs and strengths of our community. By joining the KEDC Board, you will help steer these initiatives, making a tangible difference in the lives of Kodiak residents.
Who Can Join the KEDC Board?
Serving on the KEDC Board is open to anyone with a passion for Kodiak’s future. Prior board experience or a specific professional background is not required; we seek only a commitment to our island and its people. We welcome Kodiak residents from all walks of life, whether you are a business owner, a teacher, a retiree, or someone working in one of our key industries like education, services, fishing, or tourism. The primary requirement is a genuine interest in seeing our community grow stronger. Diversity of thought and experience strengthens our board, and we encourage applicants who bring fresh ideas to apply.
What’s the Time Commitment Like?
We understand that life in Kodiak can be demanding, so we have designed the board role to be meaningful yet manageable. Serving on the KEDC Board typically requires about 2 to 4 hours per month. This includes attending board meetings, which happen every other month, where we discuss strategy, review projects, and set priorities. Additional time may be spent preparing for meetings or participating in occasional committee work, depending on your interests. The commitment is structured to fit into most schedules while offering a chance to have a real impact. These meetings also provide an opportunity to connect with other community leaders who share your dedication to Kodiak.
Why Volunteer for the Board?
Volunteering for the KEDC Board offers a unique opportunity to make a difference. As a board member, you will help shape policies and projects that directly influence Kodiak’s economic health. You will have a role in addressing significant issues, such as housing affordability and workforce development, while celebrating successes like new business growth or community revitalization. This position allows you to give back, connect with others who care about Kodiak, and leave a legacy of progress. Our current board includes a mix of volunteers from various backgrounds, all united by a shared goal: building a stronger, more sustainable island. Your perspective could be the key to unlocking new solutions.
How to Apply to KEDC Board?
The application process is straightforward. Interested individuals should complete the application form available to download here. The form asks for basic information about yourself, your interest in KEDC, and how you would like to contribute. Once submitted, our team will review your application and contact you to discuss next steps. We seek individuals who are enthusiastic, thoughtful, and ready to serve Kodiak. Applications are open now, so we encourage you to submit yours soon. (CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD)
Be Part of Something Bigger
Kodiak is a distinctive place, defined by its people, its natural beauty, and its resilience. At KEDC, we believe our island’s best days lie ahead, and we need community members like you to help us realize that potential. Serving on the KEDC Board is more than attending meetings or planning; it is about building a future where businesses thrive, families find stability, and opportunities grow for everyone. Whether you have lived here your entire life or recently made Kodiak your home, your voice can help shape what comes next. Join us in this important work, apply today, and let us create a stronger, more prosperous Kodiak together!
