Deb Smith is based in Lewiston, Idaho, and has nearly 20 years of experience in economic and community development. In her current role as the Regional Economic Planner for the Clearwater Economic Development Association (CEDA), she provides leadership in the development and implementation of the organization’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), and delivers a range of technical assistance to businesses, government jurisdictions, taxing districts, and non-profit organizations in the five counties of North Central Idaho. During her time at CEDA,

Deb has authored and/or administered over $5.3 million in federal, state, and organizational grant awards. Other accomplishments include executing and authoring the 2018 North Central Idaho Hospitality Training Needs Assessment (which was used to support expansion of the Lewis-Clark State College Hospitality Management Program) and authoring the Port of Lewiston’s successful $1.3 million TIGER IV grant application for dock expansion.

Deb was appointed as Region II Representative for the Idaho Transportation Department Public Transportation Advisory Council (2013–2014) and has held leadership and board positions for a variety of non-profit organizations throughout the region.

Prior to joining CEDA, Deb served as the Membership Coordinator and Tourism Coordinator for the Lewiston Chamber of Commerce and the Tourism Development Director of Visit Lewis Clark Valley.