The Southeast Texas Economic Development Foundation, an economic development organization comprised of the Texas counties of Hardin, Jefferson and Orange, recognized the need to showcase the attributes of this region in a comprehensive, unified fashion. Economic development professionals and stakeholders have joined forces to identify this region as a significant contributor to the economy of not only the State of Texas, but to the United States and the world.

Southeast Texas has a long history of stimulating growth with regional economic development efforts. Realizing the need to refocus regional economic development efforts, the SETEDF Board of Director's approved the concept of providing regional economic development services under the umbrella of SETEDF. A steering committee was formed to include economic developers in Hardin, Jefferson and Orange Counties.

SETEDF is a non-profit development company that was formed in 1984 to assist small businesses in the region with long term fixed rate financing for real estate acquisitions, construction and equipment purchases. The Southeast Texas Economic Development Foundation is a Certified Development Company and acts as the servicing agent for the U.S. Small Business Administration's 504 Loan Program. SETEDF processes, closes and services a loan portfolio of projects located throughout the State of Texas.

It is the goal of the Southeast Texas Economic Development Foundation to: "Provide regional economic development services to ensure long term growth and development for the region of Southeast Texas, and the State of Texas, by retaining and maximizing employment while increasing community income."

Regional Economic Development Initiative (REDI)

The Regional Economic Development Initiative is a standing committee organized to promote a collaborative regional vision for economic growth and sustainability through the sharing of ideas and resources brought forward by the membership and the communities represented. Economic development professionals and stakeholders have joined forces to market the region, participate in strategic planning, and facilitate the professional development of the individuals providing economic development services. We recognize the significance of Southeast Texas to the economy of not only of the State of Texas, but the United States and the world.

REDI Members:

• Port Arthur EDC
• Jasper EDC
• Southeast Texas Regional Planning Commission
• Orange County EDC
• Sabine River Authority
• Nederland EDC
• Port Neches EDC
• SBDC Lamar University
• SBDC Lamar State College Port Arthur
• Workforce Solutions of Southeast Texas
• Entergy
• City of Orange
• Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce
• Beaumont Chamber of Commerce
• Orange Area Chamber of Commerce
• Port of Beaumont
• Port of Port Arthur
• City of Beaumont