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16 <br /> 3. What are your board/commission's most important accomplishments during the <br /> report period? <br /> • The Economic Development Advisory Board played a key role throughout 2025 <br /> to assist the Economic Development Department and consultant Crystal Morphis <br /> from Creative Economic Development Consulting firm to develop a new <br /> economic development strategic plan. <br /> • In 2025, the Advisory Board's subcommittee reviewed many small business grant <br /> applications that were submitted by Orange County businesses for the "Small <br /> Business Grant Program" and approved 30 small business grant awards, <br /> totaling $156,232.00 for the year. <br /> • In 2025 the Advisory Board also assisted in the "Agriculture Economic <br /> Development Grant Program" to receive and review applications, approving 13 <br /> grant awards totaling $115,639.00 in support of Orange County's small farmers <br /> and food processors for the year. <br /> 4. Please list any specific tasks, events, or functions performed or sponsored annually. <br /> • The subcommittee of the Advisory Board meets up to three times per year to <br /> review, score, and consider all applications submitted by Orange County small <br /> businesses and Agricultural ventures to the Orange County Small Business <br /> Investment Grant program, and the Orange County Agriculture Grant program. <br /> 5. Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out the <br /> goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the <br /> Strategic Plan is available here. <br /> • The Orange County Economic Development Advisory Board assists the Economic <br /> Development Department to carry out many of the objectives that fall under the <br /> "Diverse and Vibrant Economy" section of the County's Strategic Plan. Specifically, <br /> the board helps to communicate and advocate for the following key objectives: <br /> #4. Provide resources to new and expanding, small, creative, and agri- <br /> businesses that add character and quality of life to our community to <br /> attract employers, employees, and visitors. <br /> #5. Increase access to and awareness of resources and assistance <br /> available to residents and businesses. <br /> #7. Expand the non-residential tax base. <br />