Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission Attends 2026 NADO & DDAA Washington Policy Conference

Staff from the Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission (OVRDC) recently traveled to the Washington, D.C. area to participate in the 2026 Washington Conference hosted by the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) and the Development District Association of Appalachia (DDAA). The annual policy conference, held March 8–11 in Arlington, brings together regional development organizations, local development districts, federal partners, and policy leaders from across the country to discuss the future of regional economic and community development.

Throughout the conference, OVRDC staff participated in sessions focused on key federal programs and policies impacting rural and regional development. Topics included federal workforce policy, transportation investment, disaster resilience, and strategies for strengthening economic opportunity in rural communities. These sessions provided valuable insights into emerging federal priorities and funding opportunities that directly affect communities across Appalachia.

While in Washington, OVRDC representatives met with staff from the offices of Senator Bernie Moreno, Senator Jon Husted, and Congressman Dave Taylor. During these discussions, OVRDC shared the importance of federal programs such as those administered by the Appalachian Regional Commission and the U.S. Economic Development Administration, which help advance infrastructure improvements, workforce development, and economic diversification throughout southern Ohio. OVRDC extends its sincere appreciation to these offices for taking the time to meet and discuss these important issues affecting our communities and region.

Participation in the NADO & DDAA Washington Conference allows OVRDC to stay informed on evolving federal policies while continuing to advocate for the needs of the region. Insights gained during the conference will help guide the organization’s ongoing work to support economic development, infrastructure investment, and community vitality throughout the Ohio Valley region.

For more information about the Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission, please visit ovrdc.org.