What is an ADO? How Does the ADO Help Whitman County?

Photo Caption: Community leaders, economic development managers, business owners and government agencies in Whitman County gathered for the Port’s quarterly Economic Development Informational Meeting (EDIM) on January 10, 2024.

Did you know the Port of Whitman County is the Associate Development Organization (ADO) for Whitman County? The Whitman County Commissioners designated the Port as the County’s ADO for a period of two years, starting July 1, 2023 until June 30, 2025.

What is an ADO?

Each of the 39 counties in Washington State designates an organization as its ADO to serve as the lead agency on local economic development activities. ADOs partner with the Washington State Department of Commerce, gathering data and reporting on economic activity within their county. 

“It will be exciting to work with the Port in this new capacity,” said Whitman County Commissioner Tom Handy in April 2023 when the decision was announced. “We hope to accomplish a lot for the citizens of Whitman County.”

What has the Port been doing in its ADO role since July 1, 2023?

The Port started by meeting with the mayors and clerks of all the cities and towns in Whitman County to discuss their community needs and economic development goals. Through this, the Port noticed a desire for regional community leaders to meet and discuss economic development with other peers. The Port has since developed the Economic Development Informational Meetings (EDIM) program; the Port has hosted four so far. These meetings take place bimonthly and gather economic development community leaders and stakeholders from across the County to discuss shared goals and learn about community needs.

Additionally, the Port is actively working on business recruitment and outreach, grant writing, advocacy, and marketing programs that enhance the County’s economic vitality and quality of life. Port staff have met with businesses across the county to learn more about their economic development needs. The Port also partners with local government in economic development and tourism agreements and explores county-wide opportunities for economic development. 

How can I learn more?

Join the Port’s mailing list on our website to stay up to date on the Port’s economic development efforts in Whitman County, including in its capacity as ADO.

Additionally, current and prospective Whitman County business owners are also encouraged to connect with the Port directly to learn more about the resources available to them by filling out the contact form on the Port’s website.