Courses & Events

Local Economic Development Certificate Program - Intensive Option
Earn up to 20 points toward the EDAC's EcD designation Starting in Spring/Summer 2023, complete your entire LED certificate in just four months – all four courses will be available during the Spring/Summer term. (You can also choose to take the selected courses that suit your spring/summer schedule and complete the remainder during another term.)

In a series of self-paced, one-hour, online courses, the Community Accelerator helps cities and counties speed toward a thriving economic and social future. Today’s economy is dominated by digital, and the Accelerator courses enable local governments to seize the advantages and avoid the dangers of the digital economy. It provides strategies, policy advice and case studies supported by comprehension testing and additional content. Completion of the 7-course series provides 5 points toward EDAC’s Ec.D. Designation.

The purpose of the seminar is to provide an accessible and practical introduction to using data in economic development. The goal is to demonstrate how the use of data leads to better decision making and strategic planning. Through instruction and hands on learning, participants will learn how to find and interpret data, including data/analysis that is relevant to their specific needs/community.

Why take Year 1? Year 1 is about two things: building a strong foundation of knowledge in economic development, and building connections with your peers. This course helps economic development professionals learn the basics of the field, from what an EDO really does, to measuring success. Generalists will learn strategies for handling the many and diverse tasks they're expected to do. Specialists will learn about the spectrum of economic development activities and become more insightful team members.

Why take Year 2? Advancing Economic Development Opportunities (Year 2) builds on the foundation created in Year 1 and addresses more advanced topics like financial analysis, project management and performance measurement. Just like in Year 1, peer-learning and networking are built into the course.

Economic Developers and other municipal officials must often secure support and engagement from elected officials, but this is often easier said than done. Led by communications expert Kadie Ward, this workshop will help guide participants to the most effective tactics, tools and approaches for successfully engaging elected officials.