The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is officially accepting submissions for this year’s Excellence in Economic Development and Honorary & Leadership Awards.

Washington, DC – The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) announced the release of the organization’s latest Economic Development Research Partners (EDRP) report titled “Growing Your Workforce: Strategies to Raise Local Labor Force Participation.” The report highlights and explores the topic of labor force participation: how it is defined and measured, historical trends, its uses, and analyses of data sources and limitations. 

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Appropriations Chair Patrick Leahy and U.S. House of Representatives Chair Rosa DeLauro released the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, which is expected to be passed by the Senate and House and signed by the President before the end of the week. The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is pleased to share that the legislation includes $1.12 billion for community economic development through the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), a $724.5 million increase above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level.

The EDP designation requires candidates to have two years of full-time experience in economic development, complete the necessary education requirements and pass the certification examination. It is designed for professionals who work with entrepreneurs and small businesses as well as those that support them via programs, networks and approaches that foster small business and entrepreneurial growth. The 2022 program courses and examination were presented in an entirely virtual format.

How are economic developers addressing the persistent shortage of workers and specific skills? This report examines partnerships that five economic development organizations (EDOs) have developed to help meet businesses’ talent pipeline and training needs. While the case studies share many similar drivers, they also feature unique responses that are aligned with each community’s needs and the EDO’s mission and strengths. Using observations from the cases, the paper identifies roles and recommendations for EDOs that seek to boost talent development in their communities.

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced that the Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $30 million CARES Act Recovery Assistance cooperative agreement with a coalition of organizations to establish and operate a nationwide Economic Recovery Corps program.

Ron Bertasi has been a member of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for six years.

Ron Bertasi has been a member of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for six years.