RESOURCES & RESEARCH
EDRP Reports
The Economic Development Research Partners Program is an exclusive membership level of IEDC, which supports practice-oriented research. The publications developed under EDRP's guidance and sponsorship are designed to increase the knowledge base of the economic development profession and help practitioners navigate through today's rapidly changing economy. Through the EDRP program, IEDC excels at its mission everyday: to assist practitioners in successfully competing in the global economy, increasing prosperity for communities at an accelerated pace, and empowering economic development professionals to better define their vision and value.
2025 State of the Field: General Report
2025 State of the Field: General Report
The 2025 State of the Field: General Report provides the most comprehensive assessment to date of the economic development profession’s structure, strategies, and evolving priorities. Drawing on 691 survey responses, cross-sectional demographic coding, and both quantitative and qualitative analyses, the report presents a panoramic view of how practitioners define and deliver economic development across communities, organizational types, and geographies. The analysis integrates findings from IEDC’s original survey, its interactive data dashboard, and complementary literature to establish a field-wide baseline for benchmarking and strategic planning.
Housing as an Economic Development Strategy
Housing as an Economic Development Strategy
Economic developers are reimagining their approach to one of today's most pressing challenges—housing. Our new research reveals how EDOs are applying business attraction methodologies to housing development, using data-driven strategies to recruit developers, and navigating complex political landscapes. Featuring insights from practitioners across the U.S., this report provides actionable recommendations for treating housing as essential economic infrastructure rather than just a social service. Discover how your organization can leverage economic development tools to create housing solutions in your community.
Artificial Intelligence Impact on Labor Markets
Artificial Intelligence Impact on Labor Markets
Discover how AI is reshaping labor markets and what it means for economic development. This paper offers a balanced, evidence-based look at both the opportunities and challenges AI presents, equipping economic developers with practical strategies to support their communities. Gain the insights needed to navigate workforce shifts, drive innovation, and ensure long-term economic resilience.
The Evolving Role of Economic Developers
The Evolving Role of Economic Developers
Economic developers are now tasked with a wide array of responsibilities beyond their traditional roles. These new areas of focus include innovation, infrastructure development, housing affordability, childcare, grant writing, community peacemaking, solar energy, broadband deployment, and AI integration. This expansion of responsibilities represents a fundamental shift in the nature of the profession.
Strategic Planning for Economic Development
Strategic Planning for Economic Development
The report highlights how the economic development field has undergone significant transformation due to technological advancements and the rise of the knowledge economy. EDOs must now adopt more agile, collaborative, and strategic approaches to meet these new demands and effectively support their communities.