OneCape 2024: Strengthening our Region’s Economy 

The 2024 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), developed by the Cape Cod Commission and Barnstable County Economic Development Council, outlines a vision for a strong and vibrant Cape Cod—a vision that shaped discussions throughout OneCape 2024. The conference explored the region's potential to lead in climate technology and the blue economy, focusing on how these sectors could drive sustainable growth. Sessions emphasized the importance of strengthening Cape Cod's natural, built, and community systems to ensure economic prosperity. Additionally, strategies for supporting a year-round economy, from fisheries to local businesses, showcased a commitment to fostering inclusivity and long-term economic vitality across the region. 

“I want to make this special place even more special with all of you.” Yvonne Hao, Massachusetts Secretary of Economic Development, led off the plenary session on September 18th, noting the strengths of our region and the multitude of economic opportunities in Massachusetts.   

“This is not the time to coast – we are living in complicated, interesting, macro times,” Hao said. “It is time to work together to lead for future generations.  

“Cape Cod could become a national hub for new resilience technologies, giving first access to life-saving innovations through the testing and demonstration of this technology locally and spurring the development of new climate tech businesses,” said Dr. Emily Reichert, CEO of the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center. Dr. Reichert spoke about the economic opportunities of climate tech, outlining opportunities for partnership and training with our region’s schools and the ability to create economic opportunities from climate change.  Reichert noted the potential for Cape Cod and Southeastern Massachusetts to lead the nation’s blue economy, building on a vibrant research environment with innovative and sustainable ocean-based solutions to some of our most significant challenges.   

Cape Cod Commission Deputy Director Erin Perry and Chief Planner Chloe Schaefer outlined efforts to promote a strong and vibrant Cape Cod, noting the interconnectedness of Cape Cod’s natural, built, and community systems, which all must thrive to advance a strong local economy. Chloe and Erin spoke to the importance of the Commission’s regional plans, all developed with intense stakeholder and community involvement, highlighting the Regional Housing Strategy, Low-Lying Roads Project, 208 Plan, and Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, and the goals and actions laid out within those plans, as evidence that the region is working to advance innovative and necessary solutions to its critical challenges. 

During a breakout session, Cape Cod Regional Technical High School Superintendent Robert Sanborn, Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance Communications Officer Doreen Leggett, Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce Chief of Staff Haley Cote, and Community Development Partnership Director of Business and Credit Programs Pam Anderson, joined Commission Deputy Director Erin Perry in a discussion about resilient, inclusive, and diverse ways to support the region’s year-round economy. Speakers discussed ongoing, targeted efforts and how they contribute to the broader Cape Cod economy and implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy.  

Conference attendees braved the windy, rainy weather on September 19th for a mobile workshop to nearby Saquatucket Harbor to view the working waterfront and hear more about the importance of the region’s fishing industry.