ADO Innovation
Background & Legislative Proposal
Strengthen the Economic Development Ecosystem
Support ADO Bill – SB 5677 and protection of $5 million (per year, statewide) funding.
ADOs have a mission of confidential, client-based economic development that public-private partnerships are uniquely equipped to provide. ADOs serve as critical conveners and catalysts at the regional level. ADOs are a proven, accountable, cohesive and intergovernmental network that covers the entire state.
Bill Summary
SB 5677
Collective ADO Results
Over the last five years, local ADO/EDC partners have helped over 627 businesses expand or develop new facilities and assisted 1,112 startups.
These companies have invested over $10.2 billion in land, buildings and equipment. These growing businesses have created over 20,444
new jobs, and retained over 21,532 jobs.
EDC business clients are estimated to generate over $100 million in new tax revenues for Washington State and local communities annually.
2025 Legislative Request
WEDA supports the passage of SB 5677 (with amendment) and protection of the existing funding level of $5 million per year. State funding for ADOs catalyzes ADO initiatives that are fostering innovation, sustainability, partnerships and equity, and would provide critical and much-needed support to these organizations. SB 5677 helps address the needs of the state’s most urban and most rural communities.
Associate Development Organizations
Washington State is composed of 39 counties, each one represented by an Associate Development Organization (ADO) that furthers the county’s or region’s economic development goals. These ADOs are funded in part by the Washington Department of Commerce and their performance and expertise is critical to growing the economy and building communities statewide.
Supported by:
