The oldest business organization on the Peninsula, the San Mateo County Economic Development Association (SAMCEDA) originated in 1953 and works with businesses, public institutions and organizations on political, economic and social issues vital to the county's growth and well-being. Today, SAMCEDA represents more than 30,000 employees in San Mateo County and the Silicon Valley who work in biotechnology, clean energy and sustainable design, as well as finance, health care, technology and transportation industries.