As the largest association representing economic development organizations in the United States and around the world, IEDC is the most important voice in Washington, D.C. on the practice and profession of economic development. IEDC engages Congress, the administration, and federal agencies on the policy issues that are most important to economic development. Through a combination of advocacy and education, IEDC works to bring the voice of economic developers to Federal leaders and policymakers.

2026 Policy Priorities

Strengthen Federal Community, Workforce and Economic Development Programs

1. Strengthen the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA)

2. Modernize and Strengthen the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

3. Reauthorize the Farm Bill and include $50 million for the New Rural Partnership Program

4. Support Regulatory Reform to Accelerate Investment and Innovation

5. Strengthen Federal Tools that Support Small Business and Manufacturing Growth

6. Advance Workforce Development and Reauthorize WIOA

7. Reauthorize and Invest in Surface Transportation

Advocacy Resources

2026 IEDC Policy Priorities

• Policy Priorities at a Glance
• Policy Priorities Full Version
  

2026 Federal Policy & Advocacy Toolkit

• Download the Toolkit