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IEDC wishes the city of Toronto, Ontario, Canada a Happy 183rd anniversary!
Here's to another year of greatness. IEDC recognizes that on March 6, 1834, the city of York was incorporated as its native Iroquois name, Toronto, and later became one of the largest cities in the world. IEDC will be exploring this great city of diversity, creativity and innovation this September 17-20 for first ever international Annual Conference.
Join IEDC - Register for the largest annual gathering of economic developers.
"We really feel that IEDC offers us the best opportunity to learn from other large cities." - Dallas Gislason, Project Manager/Advisor, South Island Prosperity Project, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
Check out the conference tracks below to see some of the discussions you'll experience at Annual Conference:
 Cashing in on Creative Capital
Culture, sports, film, music, and other creative industries are major contributors to communities around the world. From major movie productions to backend business and professional services, supporting creative industries can drive a new workforce, generate new revenue streams, and transform local economies. This track will explore how economic development organizations can support the advancement of creative industries to further the workforce, business development, and cultural economy of their communities.
 Building Local Linkages and Expanding Global Trade
Global trade, especially in terms of exporting, is vital to sustained economic growth. It creates local jobs, generates capital investments in machinery and equipment, encourages innovation, increases productivity and attracts foreign direct investment (FDI). This track will explore examples of successful trade and investment relationships between international cities and regions.
 The Nuts and Bolts of Economic Development
From BRE to financing, some of the fundamental tasks of economic developers remain constant throughout the years and are the building blocks on which new trends and initiatives are built. This track is intended to help us revisit some of the nuts and bolts of economic development, take stock of current best practices, and anticipate future trends. This track will cover topics such as real estate development and reuse, marketing and attraction, neighborhood development strategies, and workforce development strategies.
 Nurturing the Startup Ecosystem
Supporting entrepreneurship and small business creation is an economic development trend that will never go out of style. The majority of new jobs and innovation are developed from startups and small businesses. This track will examine the ways economic development organizations can embrace the startup ecosystem strategy within their communities through the bolstering of support for local startups and industry expansion.
 Regional Collaboration for Investment Promotion
The benefits of inward investment are well-known; whether from foreign sources or the next town over, investment brings new capital and jobs to a region and the spillover benefits of new knowledge and talent can give the local economy an innovation boost. This track will look at how you can strengthen your community's assets in order to offer a total and irresistible package for prospective companies.
Here's what an IEDC 2016 Annual Conference attendee had to say:
"I came to the conference this year to be able to have the great networking opportunities and also to take advantage of the educational opportunities here." - Michelle Kershner, Business Development Specialist, City of Frederick, Maryland.
 Headquarters Hotel and Conference Location:
Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
123 Queen Street West
Toronto, ON M5H 2M9
IEDC Room Rate: $249 single/double
Group Rate Cutoff: Friday, August 25, 2017
Book your room now.
Other important dates:
Conference Dates: September 17-20, 2017
Early Bird Registration Rate Cutoff: June 30, 2017
Sponsor Annual Conference
IEDC offers a range of sponsorship packages and exhibit opportunities to fit any marketing budget. Your sponsorship allows us to provide world-class speakers, a dynamic and enlightening program, and a valuable networking forum for economic professionals. Whether you are looking to market your services as an exhibitor or gain unparalleled exposure as an event sponsor, we have the perfect opportunity for you. See sponsorship packages and more information.
Explore the great city of Toronto while taking advantage of networking and learning opportunities designed specifically for you. Register for 2017 Annual Conference now and get the early bird rate.
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