Blue Mountains Economic Enterprise (BMEE) has received a positive report card after Blue Mountains City Council voted unanimously to renew its funding for a further four years at the last council meeting.
BMEE's mission is to stimulate economic development in the Blue Mountains through advocacy, investment and job creation.
"This funding will allow BMEE to continue its employment-generating initiatives in a range of areas, continue to advocate on behalf of Blue Mountains business and industry and continue to attract investors and opportunities to the region," said BMEE chairman Donald Luscombe.
Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greenhill said BMEE has "made a valuable contribution to developing economic diversity within the city and ensuring that funding and employment initiatives are not lost to other regions".
"The nature of our city, surrounded by a world heritage area, has both opportunities and challenges. In only a few short years, BMEE has met, and, in many areas, exceeded expectations. I am pleased that the BMEE model, put in place by the council, is working as intended."
In addition to the funding from council, BMEE secured more than $260,000 in 2014 from a range of sources. Current initiatives include the Bushfire Building Conference and Expo, and the Local Food Industry Development Project.
"I am delighted that BMEE has been acknowledged by council for providing a good return on its investment. This is testament to the hard work of our team, led by CEO, Jacqueline Brinkman and our dedicated board of directors," said Mr Luscombe.
"We look forward to continuing the various projects that will provide jobs and opportunities for Blue Mountains residents and businesses, including our work to establish a tertiary education campus in the region, the launch of a regional creative industries brand, the positioning of the region as a quality food destination and the transition of the Blue Mountains to a thriving digital economy."