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) is IEDC's flagship peer-reviewed scholarly journal, published annually during the first week of May in celebration of Economic Development Week. Its purpose is to advance the profession's body of knowledge by publishing original research, new methodologies, literature reviews, and evidence-based analyses that contribute to the academic and professional understanding of economic development.

In essence, EDJ answers the question:

"What does the profession need to know?"

Submission Process

• The annual call for papers opens each October.
• Author guidelines and submission deadlines are published with the call.
• Acceptance is based on a double-blind peer-review process and Editorial Board review.
• Please note: All contributions are voluntary and unpaid. 

Call for Papers – Economic Development Journal 2027

The Economic Development Journal (EDJ) invites submissions of applied research addressing current and emerging issues in economic development practice. Submissions should be empirically grounded, draw on identifiable data sources, clearly describe the research methodology and analytical approach, and explain practical implications for economic development practitioners.

Research may use IEDC's State of the Field data (Track A) or other relevant primary or secondary data sources (Track B). Quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods, evaluation, and empirically grounded case study research are welcome. Manuscripts should be written in clear, accessible language for a practitioner audience.

Submission deadline: December 1, 2026.

Selected manuscripts will undergo the EDJ review process for potential publication during Economic Development Week in May 2027.

 Submit Your Manuscript

Become an EDJ Reviewer

IEDC is also inviting economic development practitioners, researchers, and subject matter experts to express interest in reviewing manuscripts for the 2027 Economic Development Journal.

Interested reviewers can complete a short registration form identifying their research methods, areas of expertise, and reviewing capacity, along with uploading a current CV. Selected reviewers will receive additional information about assignments, review timelines, and requirements.

Register to Become a Reviewer

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