Boards

Stronger Together

Strong economic development depends on community leadership, regional collaboration, and long-term stewardship. The Economic Development Division works with dedicated public boards that help guide investment, workforce strategy and opportunity across Humboldt County. These boards bring together local expertise, diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to building a more resilient and prosperous local economy.

Together, these boards help turn strategy into action. Whether advancing workforce solutions, guiding economic investment, or strengthening partnerships across sectors, they play an important role in supporting Humboldt County’s long-term prosperity. Their work helps ensure that economic development is not only strategic, but also locally grounded and community driven.

Workforce Development Board

The Humboldt County Workforce Development Board helps shape the future of the local workforce by bringing together leaders from business, labor, education, Tribal entities, government, nonprofits and public agencies. For more than two decades, the board has played a central role in workforce planning, oversight, and coordination in Humboldt County. Its work supports regional economic growth by aligning workforce programs with employer needs, community priorities and broader economic development goals.

The board also guides local and regional workforce planning under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, helping connect education, training and industry needs. Current workforce plans emphasize access to services, regional partnerships, career pathways, sector strategies and support for populations facing barriers to employment.

Headwaters Fund Board

The Headwaters Fund Board helps direct one of Humboldt County’s signature economic development resources: the Headwaters Fund. The fund was created to serve as an early source of support for projects that strengthen the local economy and expand opportunity across the county. Its purpose is to help create economic opportunities for the people of Humboldt County and support a more prosperous future. 

Through the Headwaters Fund, the board helps steward investment in projects that can spark ideas, partnerships and broader community benefit. Board members bring experience from business, education, nonprofit organizations and the professional sector, helping ensure thoughtful review and community-informed leadership.

Connect With Us

The Economic Development Division is here to help community members, businesses, entrepreneurs and investors in Humboldt County. Whether you are looking for a job, launching a business, expanding operations, or exploring ways to invest on the North Coast, we’re here to help. Call us at 707-445-7745 or Email us.