PROGRAM

Calling all changemakers, visionaries, influencers, disruptors, and developers, the IEDC 2024 Annual Conference awaits! Your community, region, country, and world need you in Denver, CO, September 15-18, to join forces with thousands of economic development practitioners and thought leaders from around the globe as we celebrate and champion the unsung heroes of economic development. 

This year's conference is more than just one of our standard gatherings; it's the premier platform to flip the script and transform our profession into one of the world's most recognized, understood, and attractive industries. By spotlighting the innovative work of economic development superheroes, we aim to inspire and equip you with the tools and knowledge to drive positive change and innovation in your community. This is your team's opportunity to unleash your inner economic development superheroes and elevate the economic development profession to new heights in the Mile High City. 

Conference Theme: Championing Economic Development Superheroes 

The conference will explore the following tracks:

  • Marketing and Telling Our Stories: Learn how to share a clear and compelling story about your community and the work of economic development professionals to raise awareness for the profession. 
  • Talent and Workforce Strategies: Dive deep into innovative approaches to talent acquisition, development, and retention. Gain insights into creating resilient, future-ready workforces that drive regional prosperity. 
  • Solving the Housing Crisis: Explore how economic developers can convene businesses, government, and housing partners to develop local housing strategies that support a thriving workforce and ignite economic growth. 
  • Climate Change and Sustainability: Discover how communities can help mitigate potential economic damage from climate change by investing in resiliency and sustainability to diversify and de-risk their current base of industries and workforce skills. 
  • Rural Prosperity: Address rural prosperity through a holistic approach that encompasses various aspects of community development, infrastructure, anchor institutions, economic diversification, and quality of life enhancements. 
  • Entrepreneurship and Ecosystem Building: Build entrepreneurship ecosystems by creating environments that foster innovation, support startup ventures, and encourage entrepreneurship to thrive. 
  • AI Strategies and Implementation: Adapt and respond to an ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and technology.