2025 Holiday Luncheon

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Join us for our annual holiday lunch, a festive gathering to celebrate the season with fellow members and guests!

Member Orientation & Info Session

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Have you recently joined AAED as a member, or are you considering joining? Discover our organization's core mission, initiatives, and benefits designed to foster economic development in Arizona. Learn about key programs, networking ...

2026 Legislative Lunch on the Lawn

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Join us for the Legislative Lunch on the Lawn as we meet with our legislators and their key staffers to discuss the vital role of statewide economic development policies for the long-term stability of Arizona’s economy.

AAED Board Info Session

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Considering applying for the AAED Board of Directors? Join AAED staff and current Board members for an overview of expectations and duties, as well as an opportunity to ask questions.

Port of Douglas Tour

2:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Get a behind the scenes look at the new Port of Entry in Douglas followed by light appetizers and drinks at the Gadsden Hotel.

2026 Arizona Basic Economic Development Course

The Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC) provides attendees with a foundational understanding of economic development to grow and enhance community wealth, attract and retain jobs and investment, and improve quality of life.

Member Orientation & Info Session

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Have you recently joined AAED as a member, or are you considering joining? Discover our organization's core mission, initiatives, and benefits designed to foster economic development in Arizona. Learn about key programs, networking ...

Green Academy Course - Economic Development in Arizona

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

This course overviews Arizona's economic development and key economic drivers. Topics covered are Arizona's leading industries, legislative processes, rural and tribal economic development, strategic planning, and best practices.

2026 Spring Conference

12:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Registration and sponsorships for the 2026 Spring Conference are now open!

Member Orientation & Info Session

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Have you recently joined AAED as a member, or are you considering joining? Discover our organization's core mission, initiatives, and benefits designed to foster economic development in Arizona. Learn about key programs, networking ...

Orange Academy Course - Arizona Workforce Development

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

This course provides attendees with an overview of workforce development, and its relationship with economic development in our communities. Topics covered include workforce development stakeholders, the role of public policy, and strategic planning ...

Member Orientation & Info Session

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Have you recently joined AAED as a member, or are you considering joining? Discover our organization's core mission, initiatives, and benefits designed to foster economic development in Arizona. Learn about key programs, networking ...

Gold Academy Course - Arizona Taxation, Finance & Incentives

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

This specialized course is designed to deliver expert training to economic development professionals on the nuances of Arizona's business tax environment and the comprehensive array of state business incentives. Participants will gain a deep ...

Red Academy Course - Marketing and Business Development

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

This course will highlight different strategies for economic development practitioners to market and attract businesses to their communities. Hosted by the  Professional Education Committee ! Thank you to our Classroom Sponsor! ...

Blue Academy Course - Business Retention & Expansion

11:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Discover the importance of business retention and expansion (BRE) in economic development, explore the unique opportunities and challenges faced by tribal, rural, and urban communities, and learn about various BRE programs, including those implemented ...

Purple Academy Course - Entrepreneurship & Small Business Development

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

This course provides attendees with an understanding of the role of entrepreneurship and small business development in economic development. Practitioners will learn strategies to support start-ups and small businesses. This course is hosted by the ...