Basic Economic Development

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This introductory course is designed for economic development professionals employed by public, nonprofit, and private organizations and individuals new to the field. It is also appropriate for more experienced professionals seeking to update their knowledge and skills.

The course is a comprehensive educational experience that integrates theoretical and practical perspectives and provides participants with the foundation needed to organize, plan, and implement economic development programs. Expert instructors will cover trends, strategies, and the core tools of the trade. This UNC course is officially accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and fulfills a requirement needed to sit for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) exam. It is also a required course for the NC Certified Economic Developer (NCCED) designation.

Course sessions include:

Trends in Economic Development
Ethical Dilemmas
Strategic Planning
Workforce Development
Business Attraction and Site Selection
Business Retention and Expansion
Entrepreneurship
Development Finance
Real Estate Development
Community Development
Managing EDOs

Scholarship Information

Civic Local Foundation Scholarship

Members of Civic Federal Credit Union (Civic) and Local Government Federal Credit Union (LGFCU), who are local government employees, are eligible to apply for a scholarship towards tuition for conferences, classes, and seminars offered by the School of Government. There are four deadlines to submit applications:

March 1 (for courses starting between April 1 and June 30)
June 1 (for courses starting between July 1 and September 30)
September 1 (for courses starting between October 1 and December 31)
December 1 (for courses starting between January 1 and March 31)

Visit the Civic Foundation for more information and to submit an application

Additional information

Attendees: Economic development professionals employed by public, civic, or private development agencies and individuals new to the field.
Certification: The course is accredited by the International Economic Development Council and qualifies as a professional development training requirement needed to sit for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) examination. The course is also required for the NC Certified Economic Developer (NCCED) program.

International Economic Development Council Website

1275 K Street NW, Suite 300
Washington, DC 20005-4083