According to the predictions of leading economists, in 2010 the United States' economic recovery will be well under way. As our country - and the rest of the world - emerges from this perfect storm of 2008 and 2009, we will undoubtedly encounter a landscape that has been vastly altered.

The old ways of doing business and making deals will no longer be relevant and likely be replaced by more innovative approaches. While caution appears to be the buzzword - affecting everything from credit markets to consumer spending to corporate expansion - history shows us that even in these difficult conditions, success is achieved by forward-thinking entrepreneurs and others willing to think outside the box.

Join IEDC in Columbus, Ohio, September 26-29 for the world's largest gathering of economic developers as we discuss the new paradigms of economic development: new tools, new uses, new ventures, and new directions.

Conference Tracks

New Tools for Recovery
A desk, a phone line, and an opportunity were, at one time, critical components needed to provide for a successful business environment. In these uncertain times, the resources needed for recovery are no longer as simple. The tools utilized by professionals in the economic development realm must adapt to meet the needs of a changing, more sophisticated and at times hostile market environment. This track will explore the full spectrum of tools needed in this ever-changing landscape.

New Uses to Revitalize the Economy
Every urbanized or natural place in the world is under constant evolution and change. As part of that process, many of the best opportunities are often overlooked and historically neglected. In the current situation of recovery, the need for new uses and investment is accelerated. This track will focus on such development opportunities and non-traditional tools to use to undertake difficult projects and diversify your economic base.

New Ventures to Combat Unemployment
Small businesses and entrepreneurs are the most significant generator of jobs and the target of any sound economic development program generally. In times of economic restructuring, stimulating entrepreneurs and small business development takes on a greater urgency as that is where new jobs will come from. One of the building blocks that every community should include in their strategy for job creation is a focus on small business and entrepreneurial development. Sessions in this track will focus on planting the seeds of small business and workforce development and provide a nurturing environment that allows those seeds to take root, grow, and thrive – even under the harshest economic conditions.

New Directions in Rapidly Changing Times
How do economic development organizations effectively manage the myriad of duties when hindered by constrained resources and a restructuring economy? Where can you find resources to drive community reinvestment and to grow jobs? The New Directions track gives guidance and insight on the most critical issues facing economic development organizations.

A Message from IEDC President & CEO Jeffrey Finkle

On behalf of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), it is with great pleasure that I invite you to join me and the IEDC Board of Directors at IEDC’s 2010 Annual Conference in Columbus, Ohio, September 26-29.

This year’s Annual Conference has special meaning to me as Columbus is my hometown (I was actually born and raised in Newark, Ohio, 33 miles away). I am excited to be able to share the Columbus experience with you and hope that you will take advantage of all that the city, as well as the state, has to offer during your stay.

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