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With its "EDD in the Community" initiative, the California Employment Development Department (EDD) is the first government agency to lead the way in redefining its relationship with citizens in 2025. Employment Development Department
In the case of organizations such as TaxProNext, this carries significant lessons related to trust, outreach, and the role of technology in the service of the people. We will discuss what EDD is up to, why it is important, and how the business can learn about it.
What Is “EDD in the Community”?
Recent announcements made by EDD in September 2025 outlined its expansion strategy of going beyond offices and online portals into the neighborhoods, events, and community hubs.
Key elements:
- Partnering with local groups (churches, community centers, chambers of commerce) so they can bring services to the people.
- Promotion of big public gatherings, such as cultural festivals (Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth). At these events, EDD sets up booths, provides printed resources, and helps people with benefit programs, payroll taxes, identity verification, and more.
- Trust-building and education: Rather than just handing out flyers, EDD is engaging in conversations, answering questions, dispelling misconceptions, and ensuring people know how to use programs like unemployment, disability, or Paid Family Leave.
- Long-term relationships: It is not a one-time appearance but an ongoing relationship that is supported by community groups, newsletters, local offices, and follow-up support.
Why It Matters, Especially in 2025
The strategy of EDD indicates some of the critical changes that any organization (public or private) must pay attention to:
1. Trust and Accessibility Over Broadcast Messaging
When assistance is received within known environments, people will be more receptive. Being present in community areas implies: We belong here.
2. Bridging Digital Divides
Not all people will access online services even with intense broadband and cell phones. Giving printed materials, phone numbers, and face-to-face assistance closes the gaps. EDD does that.
3. Proactive Education Reduces Friction
Most people fail to understand or use benefit programs. Adding up front (at community events) allows EDD to cut down on subsequent confusion, appeals, and support load.
4. Partnerships Amplify Reach
Partnering with trusted local groups scales impact. EDD works with churches, local chambers, and non-profits.
5. Sustained Presence > One-off Campaigns
Since EDD is not only appearing, they are keeping relationships alive; the effect accumulates over time: more trust, better awareness, and more legitimate services are adopted.
What Businesses & Tech Providers Like TaxProNext Can Learn
Although EDD is a state organization, many of its policies are directly applied to the private market, particularly to businesses that serve the communities or depend on trust (fintech, SaaS platforms providing government services, civic tech, etc.).
A. Commit to Local Presence
- Host or sponsor events in neighborhoods.
- Partner with local NGOs, civic groups, or chambers.
- Provide flexible support (pop-up desks, mobile vans).
B. Offer Hybrid Access Models
A digital-only service is not desired by everybody.
- Be available in-person and online.
- Offer printed guides or support hotlines.
- Train users through community trainings to avoid being stuck behind a screen.
C. Embed Education in Service Delivery
Instead of letting users ask questions, go out of their way to educate:
- Use simple language.
- Design pamphlets, brief videos, and local workshops.
- Overcome misconceptions (e.g., whether a contractor or employee).
D. Build Institutional Partnerships
Similar to EDD partnering with churches or local associations, tech companies can partner with:
- Libraries, schools, co-working, NGOs.
- Local Influencers, local leaders, trade associations.
The groups usually possess trust and local access that you lack.
E. Focus on Long-Term Engagement
Don’t use community touchpoints as a marketing stunt.
- Follow up: newsletters, updates, and scheduled workshops.
- Support through local means.
- Get feedback and inquire about the way you provide services.
How TaxProNext Can Mirror “In the Community” for Tech & Payroll
In the case of a firm such as TaxProNext that offers taxation, payroll technology, and business setup, the following are viable methods of directly extending value into communities:
1. Host Local Workshops
Educate small businesses about payroll compliance, new tax laws, and audit readiness through interactive workshops in local community halls, co-working centers, or local chambers of commerce.
2. Pop-up Support Booths
Establish support offices at business expos, trade shows, and community events where business persons can seek their payroll, tax, or business formation questions answered.
3. Collaborate with Local government and Non-Governmental Organizations.
Partner with local agencies and nonprofit organizations, particularly in underserved regions, to empower small business owners with the knowledge of digitization, payroll laws, and the rights of employees.
4. Offer Online + On-campus Resources.
Provide useful checklists, guidelines, posters, and multilingual materials online and offline so that they are accessible even to those who do not have internet access at all.
5. Develop Trust based on Openness.
Demonstrate that TaxProNext provides compliance, protects sensitive data, and provides accurate payroll reporting. Think of providing free Payroll and Tax Clinic days to enable the business people to enhance their operations.
Conclusion
The In the Community initiative run by EDD represents a move towards a push model (sending out messages in offices), where it is more of a walk with people where they are. This proximity is important in 2025, particularly in areas that require trust, regulation, and benefits.
In the case of TaxProNext and other tech-centric firms, the same viewpoint, integrating digital capacity with human engagement, service with education, and local cooperation with scalable solutions, could earn market loyalty, trust, and actual impact.
Technology does not mean much without trust and access. And showing up literally in the community is one powerful way to bridge that gap.
