Deb Smith is based in Lewiston, Idaho, and has over 20 years of experience in economic and community development. In her current role as the Planning Manager for 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 $7.3 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 leading the Economic Development Districts of Idaho’s statewide CEDS – Idaho Strong 2023-2028 Statewide Economic Development Strategy.

Deb has been recognized as a Professional Community and Economic Developer through the Community Development Council since 2012. She is a trained practitioner of WealthWorks, a community-focused approach to economic development that helps build wealth in regions. She joined the RDI board in December 2021 and currently serves as RDI’s Vice Chair.

Deb lives in Lewiston, Idaho, with her retired Marine Corps husband and their rescue pets (two dogs and two cats).