The race for data centers is reshaping the landscape of economic development. Once considered behind-the-scenes infrastructure, these massive facilities have become headline projects, commanding billions of dollars in investment and dominating conversations among policymakers, utilities, and economic developers alike.
At IEDC’s Annual Conference in Detroit, data centers emerged as one of the most urgent—and controversial—topics on the agenda, raising critical questions about how communities should weigh short-term gains against long-term costs.
Interested in becoming a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD)?
Applications for the upcoming CEcD Exam are due by Friday, October 10. The CEcD Exam will begin with the written portion on Friday, November 7. Candidates who pass the written exam will proceed to the oral interviews, which will take place between Monday, November 17, and Friday, November 21.
For more information and to register, click below!
The Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) is launching a new series highlighting the work of ERC Fellows and host communities as they bring fresh approaches to economic development. These stories offer a glimpse into how places are building resilience, strengthening local assets, and testing new models for inclusive growth.
The Financial Times’ Climate & Impact Summit North America will convene leaders in business, finance, and policy to engage and create actionable strategies to drive investment, innovation, and policy alignment for a sustainable future while addressing the following:
The Energy Transition in the USA: Regional challenges, grid, modernization, and energy equity
Financing the Future: Catalyzing capital flows into projects and emerging markets
Urban Sustainability: Cities as hubs for innovation
Made in America: Optimizing supply chains
Powering the future: Energy sources for AI data centers and mining centers
Climate Resilience and Adaptation: Safeguard communities and economies
Confirmed speakers include: Ani Dasgupta, President and CEO of WRI, Mindy Lubber, CEO of Ceres, Georgia Levenson Keohane, CEO of Soros Economic Development Fund, Amit Bouri, CEO and Co-Founder of The Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN), plus many more.
As part of the IEDC community, you can save 25% off your pass with the discount code IEDC. Register today!
The Call for Session Proposals for the 2026 IEDC Leadership Summit, March 1-3, opens next week!
Whether you're a seasoned executive, emerging leader, or visionary changemaker, we encourage you to share your expertise and help shape the conversation.
Stay tuned for full submission details—and start thinking about the session you want to lead.
Current membership expires on December 31, 2025.Budget for renewal now or take advantage of early renewal options to ensure that you don’t miss a moment of impact.
Your 2026 Membership Unlocks:
Exclusive Research Access – First look at industry-shaping studies and trends
Next-Level Networking – Premium connections with global thought leaders
Robust Training Opportunities – Expansive professional development
Members-Only Events – Special access to high-impact conferences and networking events
Significant Savings – Up to hundreds of dollars in annual savings on conferences and trainings with member discounts
.png?upscale=true&width=1000&upscale=true&name=IEDC%20Membership%20Renewal%20Slider%20(2).png)
.png?upscale=true&width=1120&upscale=true&name=Learning%20Thursdays%20Instructors%20(10).png)
