2025 GEDI-EDAA LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE COURSE SCHEDULE

Retail Attraction and Development
Auburn University Alumni Center

This is a GEDI-EDAA Leadership Institute Course focused on retail attraction and development.

Topics addressed will include: the local economic development impact of retail development; retail development and attraction trends and strategies; planning and financing retail and commercial projects; and working with developers.

Placemaking for Economic Development
Back Forty, Gadsden, AL

This is a GEDI-EDAA Leadership Institute course focused on Placemaking. It will include classroom instruction and engagement, as well as a local walking tour.

Placemaking is a multi-faceted approach to the planning, design, and management of public spaces, which capitalizes on a local community’s assets, inspiration and potential, with the intention of creating public spaces that promote people’s health, happiness and well-being.

Branding and Marketing Your Community for Success
Auburn University Alumni Center

This course will focus on: Developing a unique, asset-based identity; creating a strong brand; and successfully marketing a community/region.

Effective branding and marketing can help leaders and citizens build a strong sense of community pride and belonging; retain and expand existing businesses and attract new residents, businesses, and visitors.

Essentials of Economic Development
Central Alabama Electric Cooperative – Prattville, AL

This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of economic development. Course participants will have an opportunity to apply what they have learned by competing in a case study project recruitment exercise.

“Essentials of Economic Development is the core course required as part of the GEDI-EDAA Leadership Institute Certificate program.

Leveraging Alabama Financing Programs for Local Economic Development
Auburn University Alumni Center

This course will include an overview of Alabama economic development financing programs. Instructors will provide tips and examples for leveraging state-level programs to support local economic growth and development.

Week I is scheduled for July 14-18 and Week II will be held September 8-11.

The course is divided into two one-week sessions and introduces participants to all phases of economic development. Program leaders and faculty have proven success in economic development practices and techniques. Instructors represent the field’s most effective practitioners from throughout the state and nation.

This program fills up every year. Reserve your seat now!