Having CEcD after your name makes you more marketable in the job market. Those with the CEcD certification earn a median base salary of $103,500, while those without any certifications received a median of $79,000. Employers seeking expert economic development professionals respect the CEcD certification, and in many cases the certification is highly desired or required in job ads.

Through the process of becoming a CEcD, applicants learn in-depth information on a series of economic development topics as they complete each of the six training courses needed to sit for the exam. The CEcD exam tests applicants knowledge and demonstrates they are extremely knowledgeable in the field of economic development. Once you have earned your CEcD designation, you can proudly display your achievement with your own CEcD pin.

Economic development is a highly multidisciplinary profession, so it is important to be trained in several different areas. In order to achieve the certification, all applicants must complete four core training courses and two elective courses each applicant can choose to explore. This ensures that all CEcDs have a strong baseline knowledge on the fundamentals of economic development, while allowing the candidates to pursue higher comprehension on specific topics of their choosing.

Candidates are also required to have at least four-years of consecutive, paid, full-time economic development related experience. Candidates must be able to demonstrate this experience as this will be tested and revealed during the oral section of the exam. Prior to taking the exam, all applicants must attend a primer to the CEcD exam workshop either in person or online. Once candidates have completed these requirements, they can sit for the exam at any of our conferences or online, and become a CEcD!

Earn at least 12 credits
During a three-year cycle, CEcDs must earn at least 12 credits and attend at least one ethics workshop or web seminar. These credits can come from attending conferences, courses, webinars, volunteering with IEDC and more. Here is an excerpt from the recertification application that outlines how many credits different professional development events are. Tracking Document – Click Here

Recertification Form
All CEcD recertification applicants must complete the enclosed recertification form demonstrating their required professional development activity and submit a copy of their résumé indicating their continued work in economic development over the past three years. Click Here

The Recertification Application Fee
Recertification is $375.00 for members and $555.00 for non-members. The fee must accompany the application and is fully non-refundable. 

Notice of Application Approval
Applicants meeting IEDC recertification requirements will receive notification of recertification.  Applicants whose applications have been denied will be informed as to the reason for the denial.

Volunteer with IEDC for Recertification Credits
Join IEDC’s Knowledge Management & Development (KMD) team in assisting areas affected by disasters through technical assistance. KMD has a number of exciting projects and volunteer opportunities throughout the year. To become a volunteer, please fill out the form below and the KMD team will reach out to you. Volunteer Form – Click Here

**All Economic Development Council of Colorado’s (EDCC) online and in person events are accredited by the IEDC as can be used as a credit. Volunteering on EDCC committees, mentoring, and speaking opportunties with EDCC all qualify as credits as well.

Visit EDCC’s Event page – Click Here

Now is a great time to begin the certification process as all of the courses are offered online. This helps save in time, budget, and travel expenses. 

Learn more on IEDC’s website