This report is based upon both the accompanying literature review and the Youth and CED Profiles examining youth involvement in community economic development (CED). The profiles have been produced as part of The Canadian CED Network's efforts to encourage effective practices in youth leadership and engagement to enhance the social and economic conditions of Canada's communities.

The Canadian CED Network's youth committee, Emerging Leaders, identified the need for this research. In order to build on strengths and share resources they felt that it was necessary to learn where CED was being done and led by young people in their communities across Canada. Based on this identified need, The Canadian CED Network found funding for this research to be accomplished. In turn, the research complements The Canadian CED Network's new youth initiative, an internship program called CreateAction. CreateAction is a program designed with young people to provide a relevant six-month work experience placement for out of school, post-graduate youth who have a career focus in CED.