Intensive Economic Development Training Course

A two-week course introducing participants to all phases of economic development.

The Intensive Economic Development Training Course is an annual two-week course presented by the Government & Economic Development Institute (GEDI).

The course is divided into two one-week sessions and introduces participants to all phases of economic development. Program leaders and faculty have proven success in economic development practices and techniques. Instructors represent the field’s most effective practitioners from throughout the state and nation.

The first week of the Intensive Course is accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and fulfills one of the prerequisites for those who wish to take the exam for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation. It provides an intensive overview of general economic development concepts and principles. It provides an intensive overview of general economic development concepts and principles. In 2025, week one will be held July 14-18.

The second week will be held September 8-11, 2025 and will focus on important issues and resources in our state. It is especially valuable to economic developers and community leaders practicing in Alabama.

With 40 years of experience, GEDI is the state’s leading provider of economic development education and training.

Who Should Attend

Local, Regional, and State-Level Economic Development Professionals
Economic / Industrial Development Board Members
Chamber of Commerce Officials
State / Local Elected Officials
Community Leaders
County Commissioners
Utility Company Representatives
Community / Regional Planners

Course Curriculum

Session I Topics

Trends in Economic Development
Workforce Development and Training
Community Development Fundamentals and Success Models
Marketing and Business Attraction
Business Retention and Expansion
Web and Social Media Marketing Strategies
Strategic Planning for Economic Development
Real Estate Development and Reuse
Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development
Economic Development Finance
Site Selection Case Study Exercise
Economic Development Ethics
Building and Managing Economic Development Organization

Session II Topics

The History of Economic Development in Alabama
Alabama Government and Economic Development
Economic Development from the Company’s Perspective
Alabama Education and Workforce Development
Recruiting Hyundai: The Montgomery Experience
Retail as an Essential Economic Development Strategy
International Trade and Investment
Rural Development Strategies
Alabama Programs and Resources to Support Economic Development
Alabama Economic Development Roundtable

Certificates and Attendance Policy

Session I participants will receive a certificate of completion for the IEDC-accredited Auburn University Basic Economic Development Course. Participants who attend both Sessions I and II will receive a certificate of completion for the Intensive Economic Development Training Course. Only illness, a family emergency, or a business emergency constitute an excused absence.

Attendance and Participation: It is the policy of the Government and Economic Development Institute (GEDI) and IEDC that the entire course must be taken in order to receive full credit and/or qualify to take the exam at the end of the class. All program attendees are encouraged to benefit fully from the course by asking questions, relating experiences and thoughts, and otherwise ensure that they understand and can apply techniques and ideas offered by the instructors.

Intensive Economic Development Training Course

Save the Dates!
Week I is scheduled for July 14-18, 2025 and Week II will be held September 8-11, 2025.
More information coming soon!

Location: The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center 241 S. College St, Auburn, AL 36830
Registration Fees:

July Week ONLY, $850
July & September Weeks, $1,150
EARLY BIRD July & September Weeks, $950

Week 1 is accredited by International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
Week 2 is not offered as a stand alone course.

SAMPLE AGENDAS
Week I Agenda Week II Agenda

Alumni, faculty, and friends of the Intensive Economic Development Training Course are invited to come back to Auburn for a 40-year-reunion event to be held October 28-30, 2024. Participants will have an opportunity to reconnect with old classmates; network with key players; celebrate Alabama’s success in economic development; hear about the present state of the field; and collectively look forward to the future. The agenda will include a balance of useful programming content and ample time for networking. Optional tours will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.

Reunion Information

Agenda

Hotel Information