Economic Developers Alberta
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Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E)- In-Person Course (Closed Event)
1/14/2026 - 1/14/2026

Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E)

Core Course – EDA Institute

In this course, you’ll gain a practical understanding of how to support and strengthen your local business community through effective BR&E strategies.

You will:

  • Explore BR&E as a key driver of economic growth and sustainability.

  • Learn how research, data analysis, and Business Visitation Programs (BVPs) help inform meaningful strategies.

  • Examine different types of BR&E initiatives — including Import Replacement Programs (IRPs), Home-Based Business (HBB) initiatives, and downtown revitalization efforts.

  • Understand how to create a supportive environment that encourages business retention, growth, and innovation.

  • Build your ability to measure economic development success using both qualitative and quantitative Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

  • Discover how BR&E activities contribute to community resilience, including preparation for and recovery from economic disruptions or disasters.

Host: Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration – Laura McGown, REDS Team
Trainer: Natalie Gibson


 
Location: Leduc County Business & Entrepreneur Centre
608 18th Ave
Nisku, AB T9E 7V8


The attendee limit has been reached for this event.


Economic Development for Elected Officials Course- Information Session
1/21/2026

Join EDA Past President and current EDA Institute Instructor Trevor Lewington for an informative webinar designed to introduce you to EDA’s Economic Development for Elected Officials course.

Just months after Alberta’s municipal elections, this session is especially timely for those looking to equip local leaders with the knowledge and tools to champion economic development in their communities.

Whether you're interested in hosting this course locally or exploring the flexible online option, this webinar will walk you through what to expect — and give you a chance to ask your questions directly.








Performance Measurement (PM) - Virtual Course (Closed Event)
1/22/2026

Performance Measurement in Economic Development (PM)
Performance measurement provides a structured way to assess and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your economic development activities. This course introduces the key concepts, tools, and frameworks needed to evaluate progress, strengthen decision-making, and demonstrate the impact of economic policies, programs, and initiatives.
Participants will explore the differences between performance management and performance measurement, learn how to apply the Logic Model and SOME framework, define SMARTER outcomes, and select meaningful metrics that align with community priorities. By the end of the course, you will be equipped to track results, identify opportunities for improvement, and clearly communicate success to stakeholders.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
  • Understand core concepts of Community Economic Development (CED) and its measurement
  • Distinguish between performance management and performance measurement
  • Review and interpret economic development performance studies
  • Apply the SOME framework in measurement
  • Identify and prioritize community economic needs
  • Develop objectives based on identified priorities
  • Use the Logic Model to guide measurement
  • Define SMARTER economic development outcomes
  • Identify relevant data sources and select effective performance metrics
  • Track progress and communicate results with clarity
Hosted by Caroline McAuley and BRAED
Trainer: Natalie Gibson
Virtual- Zoom link sent with registration confirmation​
 
 
 

Location: Online

Registration ends on 1/15/2026
There are currently 22 spots remaining out of 35




Wednesday Webinar- Unpacking EDA's Community Investment Readiness Tool
1/28/2026

Get the inside track on EDA's Community Investment Readiness Tool! 

Join EDA and special guest Guillermo Mazier, SVP of Global Business at FT Locations, for a FREE webinar that dives deep into the groundbreaking CIR Tool helping Alberta communities boost their investment readiness.

Our CIR Tool is a first-of-its-kind self-assessment designed to help communities evaluate where they stand — and make more strategic decisions about attracting and sustaining investment.

Developed in collaboration with FT Locations, the CIR tool is available through EDA’s Community Investment Readiness Course through the EDA Institute. (Completion of EDA’s Business and Investment Attraction (BIA) course is a required prerequisite for accessing the full course and tool.)


 






Business Investment & Attraction (BI&A) - In-Person Course
1/29/2026

Business Investment & Attraction (BIA) ls a Core Course with the EDA Institute

During this in-person session you will;
  • Understand the role of economic development and the importance of implementing a BI&A strategy.
  • Assess community investment readiness, leverage competitive advantages, and build capacity.
  • Develop a comprehensive BI&A strategy, conduct market research, and select appropriate marketing tools.
  • Cultivate relationships with investors and entrepreneurs, identify investment projects, and establish protocols.
Hosted by: Martin Ebel, Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration
Trainer: Natalie Gibson
Location: Taber Legion Hall
5205-48 Ave.,
Taber, AB T1G 1S8

Registration ends on 1/19/2026
There are currently 1 spots remaining out of 35





Establishing the Foundation (ETF) - In-person (Closed Event)
2/3/2026

Economic Development – Establishishing the Foundation (ETF)

Your journey starts here.

This introductory course provides a solid grounding in the principles and practices of economic development. As the first course in EDA’s Community Economic Development Training Program (CEDTP), it helps learners understand the field, the role of economic development professionals, and the strategies that drive strong, resilient communities.

Course Outcomes

Participants will learn to:

  • Understand key economic development concepts, including Community Economic Development (CED).

  • Identify the roles and responsibilities of Economic Development Officers.

  • Develop strategic plans using SMARTER goals, data, and local economic analysis.

  • Explore core strategies such as BR&E, BI&A, workforce development, tourism, and marketing.

  • Recognize the importance of collaboration, partnerships, and funding opportunities.

  • Evaluate economic development activities using KPIs and performance measurement tools.

  • Understand how to build community economic resilience and support long-term sustainability.

    Course Date: February 3rd, 2026 10am to 4pm
    Co-hosts :Brad Hestbak, REDS Team and Jennifer Churchill from ANCA 
    Trainer: Holly Sorgen
    Coffee, tea and lunch will be provided

    Please note the EDA In-person training session are awarded course completion certificates that can be used toward your EDA CED Certificate.


Location: Sucker Creek First Nation
Administration Building
Sucker Creek, AB

Registration ends on 1/26/2026
There are currently 29 spots remaining out of 35




Economic Development for Elected Officials - Jasper Region - Registration is Free
2/5/2026

Economic Development for Elected Officials

Economic Development 101! 

Designed specifically for elected officials and community leaders, this foundational course offers a clear, big-picture understanding of economic development and how it connects to local mandates and priorities. Participants gain practical tools for strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and understanding the role of local government in community progress. The course explores core economic development strategies, target market identification, and effective value-proposition building. It also highlights the importance of collaboration, funding mechanisms, and performance measurement using KPIs. Finally, attendees learn how to support community economic resilience and their role in helping communities prepare for—and recover from—disruptions.

Location - Quorum Room, Basement Level of the Library & Cultural Centre, 500 Robson St., Jasper

 Hosted by EDA and Jasper

Trainer: Mark Morrissey
Thursday February 5th from 9 am to 3 pm 

Please note that Lunch and Refreshments will be provided.

 


Location: Quorum Room (Basement Level)
Library & Cultural Centre
Jasper, AB

Registration ends on 1/30/2026
There are currently 16 spots remaining out of 35




Economic Development for Elected Officials - Growing the North
2/20/2026

Economic Development for Elected Officials

Economic Development 101! - Designed specifically for elected officials and community leaders, this foundational course offers a clear, big-picture understanding of economic development and how it connects to local mandates and priorities. Participants gain practical tools for strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and understanding the role of local government in community progress. The course explores core economic development strategies, target market identification, and effective value-proposition building. It also highlights the importance of collaboration, funding mechanisms, and performance measurement using KPIs. Finally, attendees learn how to support community economic resilience and their role in helping communities prepare for—and recover from—disruptions.

Location - Evergreen Park 55051 Township Rd 710, Grande Prairie, AB T8W 5A7

Location website https://evergreenpark.ca

The conference website is https://growingthenorth.com

Hosted by: Grande Prairie County and Hetti Huls
Trainer: Mark Morrissey
Friday February 20th from 9 am to 3 pm - Cost $150 pp

 


Location: EverGreen Park
55051 Township Rd 710
Grande Prairie, AB T8W 5A7

Registration ends on 1/30/2026




Fundamentals of Rural Economic Development - Growing the North
2/20/2026

Fundamentals of Rural Economic Development (RED)

Designed for those working in rural and remote communities, this course focuses on building effective, collaborative economic development strategies tailored to local realities.
Participants learn how to assess community needs and assets, identify opportunities, and develop targeted Rural Economic Development Plans. The course explores key rural strategies, creative resource alignment, and practical tools such as CNAs, asset mapping, and gap analysis. Learners gain skills in community engagement, partnership development, and navigating conflict. The session also highlights rural leadership, governance models, and the role of economic development officers in advancing long-term growth

Location - Evergreen Park 55051 Township Rd 710, Grande Prairie, AB T8W 5A7

Location website https://evergreenpark.ca

The conference website is https://growingthenorth.com

 Hosted by: County of Grande Prairie
Trainer: Holly Sorgen
Friday February 20th from 9 am to 3 pm - Cost $150 pp

 
Location: Ever Green Park
55051 Township Rd 710
Grande Prairie, AB T8W 5A7

Registration ends on 1/30/2026




Mental Well-Being for Community Leaders (MW) - Growing the North
2/20/2026

Leading Through Challenging Times: Mental Well-Being for Community Leaders (MW)

This course supports leaders who shoulder responsibility during crises; community leaders in public-facing roles—economic developers, elected officials, municipal staff, and nonprofit directors, helping them maintain their own well-being while guiding their teams and communities.
Participants learn practical strategies to manage stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity in uncertain situations. The training explores how to build resilience, foster psychologically healthy teams, and create a culture of mental well-being. It also provides tools and resources to support community mental health and navigate high-pressure environments with confidence. Leaders leave with strengthened skills and a network of peers facing similar challenges.

Location website https://evergreenpark.ca

The conference website is https://growingthenorth.com

 Hosted by: County of Grande Prairie and Economic Developers Alberta
Trainer: Leann Hackman-Carty and Joile Wills
Friday February 20th from 9 am to 3 pm 
 
Location: Ever Green Park
55051 Township Rd 710
Grande Prairie, AB T8W 5A7

Registration ends on 1/30/2026





Economic Development for Elected Officials - Hybrid Event (In-person & Online options) (Closed Event)
2/26/2026

Economic Development for Elected Officials

Economic Development 101! - Designed specifically for elected officials and community leaders, this foundational course offers a clear, big-picture understanding of economic development and how it connects to local mandates and priorities. Participants gain practical tools for strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and understanding the role of local government in community progress. The course explores core economic development strategies, target market identification, and effective value-proposition building. It also highlights the importance of collaboration, funding mechanisms, and performance measurement using KPIs. Finally, attendees learn how to support community economic resilience and their role in helping communities prepare for—and recover from—disruptions.

Location - Flagstaff County Office, 12435 Twp Rd. 442, Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0
Please note that this event is free to BRAED Communities.
Coffee, tea and lunch will be served.

 

 Hosted by Caroline McAuley, BRAED
Trainer: Trevor Lewington
February 26th from 9 am to 3 pm

 


Location: Flagstaff County Office
12435 Twp Rd. 442
Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0

There are currently 25 spots remaining out of 33




Business Investment & Attraction (BIA) In-person Closed Event
3/20/2026

Business Investment & Attraction (BIA) ls a Core Course with the EDA Institute

During this in-person session you will;
  • Understand the role of economic development and the importance of implementing a BI&A strategy.
  • Assess community investment readiness, leverage competitive advantages, and build capacity.
  • Develop a comprehensive BI&A strategy, conduct market research, and select appropriate marketing tools.
  • Cultivate relationships with investors and entrepreneurs, identify investment projects, and establish protocols.
Hosted by: Jennifer Hartigh, Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration
Trainer: Trevor Lewington
Tea, Coffee and Lunch will be served
Location: Reynolds Museum 6426-40th Ave., Wetaskiwin

Please note that the deadline to register is Friday February 27, 2026.
Location: Reynolds Museum
6426 - 40th Avenue
Wetaskiwin, AB

Registration ends on 2/27/2026
There are currently 26 spots remaining out of 32




EDA 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM)
3/26/2026

All EDA members are invited to attend however, only Full members in good standing are eligible to vote at  the AGM.

At the AGM we will be electing our 2026-27 Board of Directors. 

All documents required in advance are available on our website, under the members-only section. 


Location: Zoom





"Kick-Start in Kananaskis" Pre-Conference Mixer
4/14/2026

Coming to the conference early?

Kick off your conference experience at our exclusive pre-conference mixer! Connect with new and familiar faces over drinks and delicious snacks.

Our annual Kickstart in Kananaskis will be held at Woody's Pub & Patio at the conference site. To attend, you must register in advance, and conference registration is required before registering for this event.

Enjoy tasty snacks and a complimentary beverage (wine, beer, highball, or soft drinks) as you mingle.

Dress: casual
Location: Woody's Pub & Patio
1 Centennial Drive
Kananaskis, AB

Registration ends on 4/9/2026
There are currently 84 spots remaining out of 105




EDA Xperience 2026 Leaders' Summit & Conference
4/15/2026 - 4/17/2026

EDA Xperience 2026 Leaders' Summit and Conference attracts over 400 local, national, and international experts in economic development, along with elected officials from across Alberta to discuss provincial developments, explore ways to advance the economy, and offer mutual support.

EDA Members must be signed in with their EDA user email and password to access the exclusive EDA member discount.

When registering please ensure the email used matches the delegate who is attending - this is critical to avoid confusion. 

Delegates will gain insights into Alberta’s sector opportunities, receive updates on economic trends and best practices, and enjoy inspiring keynotes, engaging workshops, and interactive networking opportunities.


Location: Pomeroy Mountain Lodge
1 Centennial Drive
Kananaskis, AB

There are currently 66 spots remaining out of 430




2026 EDA Ministry Dinner
10/22/2026

The purpose of the Annual EDA Ministry Dinner is to bring together EDA members and stakeholders with specific Ministers and senior staff from the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta, to network, share information about programs and explore potential partnerships. 

The dynamic format of the dinner involves rotating table visitations to maximize networking during the meal.
Location: Matrix Hotel
10640 100 Avenue NW
Edmonton , AB