Certification

We believe that a solid foundation in economic development concepts and best practices is important to the strength of our industry. The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and National Development Council (NDC) provide opportunities for economic development professionals at all levels to continue their learning and earn certification in the field.

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IEDC Certification (CEcD)

Why IEDC?

With over 1,110 Certified Economic Developers (CEcD) worldwide, IEDC's certification program is the industry gold standard for excellence in the profession. Training courses, which are offered throughout North America, are the leading source of education for professionals at all levels. Covering both key topics and specialized issues, courses are designed to be interactive and provide an international perspective with a focus on real life experiences, best practices and tools you can use in your community. The CEcD exam intends to unite the field by establishing a baseline of core knowledge for economic development professionals, in both the private and public sectors. By offering this highly sought after and comprehensive designation, IEDC strives to promote the status and credibility, as well as enhance the knowledge and performance of economic developers.

Learn more about IEDC certification

Core Competency Courses (Required)
Introduction to Economic Development or Basic Economic Development Course
Business Retention & Expansion
Economic Development Credit Analysis
Real Estate Development & Reuse

Elective Competency Courses
(must take a minimum of two)
Economic Development Finance
Economic Development Marketing & Attraction
Economic Development Strategic Planning
Entrepreneurial & Small Business Development Strategies
Neighborhood Development Strategies
Management Economic Development Organizations
Technology-led Economic Development
Workforce Development

Continuing Education
Maintaining your CEcD certification is an important way to boost the visibility of your organization and maintain your marketability within the profession. Recertification requirements focus on your attendance at events that offer professional development opportunities. CEcDs are required to attend at least two IEDC events every three years. Recognized state and regional events, including many EDAM events, also count towards recertification.

 

NDC Certification (EDFP)

Why NDC?

NDC training is a nationally recognized certification specially geared to developing knowledge and skills essential to making deals happen. The Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) Certification Program™ is a rigorous, four-course training series that explores the skills essential for the successful practice of economic development – business credit and real estate finance analysis techniques, loan packaging procedures, negotiating and problem solving skills and deal structuring techniques. Course instructors, including community and economic development officials, former bankers, developers, entrepreneurs and government agency leaders, are members of NDC's team of development finance specialists who bring real-world knowledge, a wealth of experience and a timely perspective to the classroom. Participants in the EDFP Certification Program build the capacity to translate development opportunities into results for their communities.

Learn more about NDC certification

Courses
ED101: Economic Development Finance
ED201: Business Credit Analysis
ED202: Real Estate Finance
ED300: The Art of Deal Structuring

Continuing Education
As an NDC-Certified Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP), you are recognized as a leader in your field. Keeping your certification and skills up-to-date will enhance your peer recognition and, more importantly, your ability to serve your community and your organization. Individuals who complete three units of approved activities (generally, one unit is equivalent to one day) will fulfill NDC’s recertification requirements. In order to maintain your NDC certification in good standing, certified individuals must complete the recertification requirement every three years.