DEDA's mission is to drive economic prosperity in the City of Duluth.
DEDA accomplishes its mission by leading significant development initiatives, being a catalyst for sustainable development and redevelopment, and prudently investing unique resources that leverage other investments.
As the City of Duluth's economic development agent, DEDA works to stimulate business investment, expand economic prosperity, grow the local tax base and strengthen public-private partnerships. DEDA’s partnerships and initiatives are paying off with a vibrant, diversified economy and business climate that creates jobs, builds prosperity, and secures a strong tax base to fund vital City services to sustain healthy neighborhoods.
DEDA's initiatives in result in the following returns on investment:
- High quality employment opportunities
- Increased tax base
- population growth
- Healthy vibrant neighborhoods
- Business growth or expansions
DEDA's initiatives are based on the following values:
- Balance risk and return on investment
- Partner in a collaborative manner
- Provide prudent stewardship over public resources
- Leverage our region's unique economic and environmental assets
- Respect the culture and people that make Duluth special
- Recognize the unique contributions of public and private partners
Commissioners
DEDA is governed by seven Commissioners made up of three City Councilors and four citizens:
| Connor Randall | President |
| Roz Randorf | City Councilor, Treasurer |
| Dan Markham | Commissioner, Secretary |
| Janet Kennedy | City Councilor |
| Arik Forsman | City Councilor |
| Chiamaka Enemuoh | Commissioner |
| Anna Bailey | Commissioner |