The purpose of the Elmore County Economic Development Authority (ECEDA) is to improve economic growth in Elmore County by encouraging new and expanded business, industry, commerce, quality residential development and tourism. All activities should emphasize maintaining or improving the overall quality of life in the county.

In 2001 the first class of Leadership Elmore County was initiated. The most pressing topic was establishing a central authority to develop and monitor a county-wide economic development program. The class acknowledged that the growth Elmore County was experiencing, it was important that a central authority focused on economic development. The Elmore County Economic Development Authority accepted the proposals by the 2001-2002 Leadership Elmore County class. The Articles of Incorporation were signed and certified pursuant to provisions of 10-3A of the Alabama Business Corporation Act. ECEDA’s objective was to serve the purpose of promoting industry and trade and to assist the governing bodies of Elmore county in their pursuits.