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 ...

EcDev Leadership Lab

8:30 AM - 1:30 PM

EcDev Learning Lab aims to empower experienced economic development leaders with the strategic insights and innovative tools needed to navigate complex challenges.

Off the Clock with Marc Valenzuela

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Join us to learn more about Cameron's career journey and her background in economic development! This event is open to everyone; however, the conversation will be geared towards emerging leaders in the economic development industry.

Rural Road Trip: Superior

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Join us for a full day of exploration and engagement in Superior as we tour the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, the Superior Enterprise Center, and Resolution Copper.

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: You are Here - The Power of Place

12:00 AM - 5:00 PM

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

Grey Academy Course - Redevelopment and Urban Planning Fundamentals

12:30 PM - 5:30 PM

This unique course pairs classroom learning and an immersive tour experience to equip economic development practitioners with the knowledge to support redevelopment, adaptive reuse, and attract private investment.

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 ...