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.

2025 Policy Priorities

Strengthen Federal Community, Workforce and Economic Development Programs

• IEDC supports fully funding the U.S Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).

• IEDC supports $4.2 billion in funding for the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG).

• IEDC supports a long-term reauthorization of the Farm Bill with specific focus on the Rural Development Title.

• IEDC supports reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

• IEDC supports comprehensive tax reform legislation that promotes economic growth and investment.

For more information, click here (PDF).

Advocacy Resources

Economic Development Policy

• Re-authorize the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA)
• The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) in Appropriations in FY 2025

Rural Development Policy

• Re-authorize the U.S. Farm Bill
• Support the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Programs

Community Development, Workforce Development, and Housing Policy

• CDBG Appropriations
• WIOA Reauthorization

Infrastructure Policy

• IIJA Reauthorization (coming soon)