As part of IEDC’s 100th anniversary year, we are proud to relaunch the Economic Development Journal (EDJ), a trusted source of knowledge and thought leadership exclusively for IEDC members.

The renewed journal features peer-reviewed research and practitioner-driven insights on the issues shaping communities today, from workforce transformation and entrepreneurship-led development to foreign direct investment, regional collaboration, and more.

This new chapter reinforces IEDC’s commitment to advancing the field through credible, data-driven content that helps practitioners navigate an increasingly complex economic landscape. Explore the inaugural issue and discover fresh perspectives from leaders across the profession.

Access the Journal

A special thank you to Chmura Economics & Analytics for being a thought partner on the Economic Development Journal. Chmura Economics & Analytics is an applied economic consulting firm specializing in delivering advanced economic analysis. Data are at the heart of Chmura. As individuals, organizations, and communities, we rely on accurate, timely data to help make critical decisions and plan for growth and improvement. The team at Chmura is dedicated to developing tools and services with that need in mind. Whether developed through customized consulting projects, delivered via off-the-shelf reports, or compiled through our software tools such as JobsEQ®, our data help you answer complex questions and implement effective solutions. Chmura has the experience and expertise to transform data into information that drives effective strategy.

About the Economic Development Journal

The Economic Development Journal (EDJ) serves as IEDC’s flagship annual applied research publication, advancing the field of economic development through high-quality, data-driven insights. Its purpose is to bridge research and practice by translating empirical findings — whether derived from original data, field-based analysis, or literature synthesis — into actionable knowledge for practitioners, policymakers, and community leaders. Grounded in both rigor and relevance, EDJ seeks to elevate professional standards, inform strategic decision-making, and contribute to a more innovative, equitable, and resilient economic development ecosystem.

EDJ is guided by a leadership model that reflects the strength, continuity, and expertise of the Economic Development Research Partners (EDRP) program. As EDRP’s primary outlet for research and thought leadership, the Journal’s Editorial Board is intentionally composed of current EDRP leadership and recent past Chairs, ensuring that the publication remains closely aligned with the profession’s evolving priorities, emerging challenges, and practitioner needs.

This structure creates a built-in continuum of leadership and institutional knowledge. By combining the perspectives of current EDRP leaders with the experience of recent past Chairs, EDJ benefits from a unique balance of continuity, strategic oversight, research exposure, and practical expertise. The result is a publication guided by individuals who have helped shape the direction of both EDRP and the broader profession, ensuring the curation, review, and dissemination of high-quality applied research that serves the economic development community.

For more information, please contact Yesilernis Pena at [email protected].