The Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO) was created to build a resilient, equitable, diverse, and competitive economy by driving the retention and creation of quality jobs, entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment in Jefferson Parish. JEDCO accomplishes this work through a variety of resources and partnerships, bringing new business into the community and supporting existing businesses through small business financing, tax incentive guidance, site selection, and parish interface.
“We are a significant resource to support businesses as they grow and thrive in Jefferson Parish,” says Jerry Bologna, JEDCO President & CEO. “Our work is dedicated to ensuring that Jefferson Parish continues to be a destination for business and hub for innovation.”
The organization—whose focus spans beyond day-to-day business to include housing, education, neighborhoods, infrastructure, and more—was established in 1987 and today employs 18 people. JEDCO is governed by a Board of Commissioners that represents the Jefferson Parish President, Jefferson Parish Council, and a number of local business organizations.
A Certified Economic Developer, Bologna has played a significant role in industry recruitment, business retention, and major projects throughout the parish since taking the helm in 2000. Under his leadership, JEDCO brokered the $1B investment of global industry leader Dyno Nobel America and played an influential role in the acquisition of the Avondale Shipyard, one of the region’s greatest physical assets. Jerry has also overseen the attraction of international headquarters and publicly-traded brands to the area.
JEDCO is accredited through the prestigious International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and was recognized in 2020 as an Economic Development Organization of the Year.
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, JEDCO recently finalized and released the Jefferson EDGE 2025, a long-term economic development strategic plan with core principles of Social Equity, Resilience and Competitiveness that will position JEDCO and Jefferson Parish for tremendous growth following the pandemic.
700 Churchill Parkway, Avondale
504-875-3908 | info@jedco.org | www.JEDCO.org
