As Celina proudly marks its sesquicentennial, 150 years of history and progress, the milestone provides a meaningful opportunity to highlight how the Celina Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) is strategically investing in people, businesses, and places to drive continued private investment and long-term economic vitality.
As a dedicated nonprofit organization, the Celina Economic Development Corporation is steered by a 7-member Board of Directors appointed by the Celina City Council. Since its establishment in 1979, the CEDC has been fueled by a ½ cent City sales tax committed to economic development.
The mission of CEDC is simple yet powerful – to achieve economic excellence by fostering a vibrant business ecosystem that enhances the local tax base.
Our vision is to shape Celina's economic future as the premier destination for investment, innovation, and talent, where businesses flourish, community is embraced, visitors are welcome, and residents experience an unmatched quality of life.
At the core of CEDC’s approach is a simple philosophy: when you invest intentionally in your community ecosystem, that investment multiplies. By supporting local entrepreneurs, strengthening partnerships, and making targeted catalytic investments, the organization helps create conditions where businesses choose to locate, expand, and reinvest in Celina.
“We view economic development as community investment,” said Anthony Satarino, Executive Director of the CEDC. “Every investment we make in people, partnerships, and strategic assets signals confidence in Celina’s future. That momentum attracts private investment, expands our tax base, and elevates the quality of life for everyone who calls Celina home”.
Investing in People and Community Partnerships
A cornerstone of the CEDC’s approach is its commitment to local partnerships that enhance workforce development, community engagement, and quality of life, factors that are critical to attracting and retaining business investment.
The CEDC actively collaborates with organizations including the Collin College Foundation, Rodeo Celina Foundation, Celina Garden Club, Celina Education Foundation, Celina Police Association, Downtown Celina Golf Tournament, Helping Hands of Celina, and Anderlin Arts. These partnerships support education, workforce readiness, cultural vibrancy, public safety, and community services, key elements that influence business location decisions and workforce attraction. By investing in nonprofit and civic organizations, the CEDC helps cultivate a thriving environment where businesses and residents want to be.
Strengthening Local Businesses Through Strategic Programs
The recently launched Local Business Support Program (LBSP) represents a major investment in Celina’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Designed to address the real-world challenges facing small businesses, the program focuses on four pillars: business retention and local spending, workforce solutions, startup education, and marketing visibility.
Initiatives include personalized consulting, workforce partnerships with regional colleges, advanced market data tools, and coordinated promotional campaigns. The program is guided by a collaborative committee that includes representatives from the CEDC, City leadership, the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Commission, and regional partners, ensuring alignment with broader economic development goals.
Catalytic Investment in Downtown Celina
One of CEDC’s most significant strategic investments is the acquisition of the approximately 32-acre Willock Tract (formerly Martinek Tract) near the downtown square. This investment represents a long-term commitment to shaping Celina’s future growth through intentional planning and placemaking.
Working with planning firm Norris Design, the CEDC is developing a master plan for a walkable mixed-use destination that could include retail, dining, office space, residential options, entertainment venues, and public gathering spaces. The goal is to create a vibrant district that complements historic Downtown while attracting private development and new economic activity.
Key Downtown Collaborations Driving Economic Impact
Beyond physical investment, the CEDC plays a central role in coordinating Downtown strategy through:
- Strategic planning and alignment with City initiatives
- Business retention and expansion support
- Targeted recruitment and tenant mix optimization
- Event activation and programming to increase visitation and spending
These collaborative efforts ensure Downtown Celina remains both a cultural heart and an economic engine for the community.
Positioning Celina for Continued Growth
Celina’s rapid growth continues to be supported by major commercial investment, including the opening of Methodist Celina Medical Center and new retail development from companies such as Lowe's, Walmart, Costco, and Home Depot. These investments expand the local tax base and support infrastructure improvements needed for long-term sustainability.
Through strategic investments in community partnerships, small businesses, and catalytic development sites, the CEDC is helping shape a future where growth is intentional, balanced, and beneficial for both residents and businesses.
As Celina celebrates 150 years, the message is clear: thoughtful investment today is building the foundation for the next generation of opportunity.
Learn more at CelinaEDC.com