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Membership

EDCO provides leadership to enhance the professional development of its members; advance economic development as a profession; and support our municipalities in fostering economic prosperity in Ontario.

The Economic Developers Council of Ontario thrives on a healthy and engaged membership. We are consistently looking to better serve our members and to support and enhance the economic development profession. If you need support in reaching approval of a membership please check out our Justification Tool Kit.

Scholarship Program

The EDCO Scholarship Fund was established by the EDCO Professional Development Committee. The purpose of the fund is to encourage and assist members, especially those new to the profession, in achieving or maintaining one’s professional designation (Ec.D. or CEcD). EDCO's Scholarship Program awards three applicants each annually:

  1. A young professional
  2. A member from Northern Ontario; and
  3. A member from Southern Ontario. 

*The EDCO Scholarship Committee has the discretion to distribute funds differently based on program intake each year.

Mentorship Program

Every mentoring relationship is different and there is no single formula for success. The EDCO Mentorship Program aims to facilitate relationships between two people in economic development where an individual with experience, knowledge, and/or connections can pass along what they have learned to another individual. The mentor will share best practices and leadership, while the mentee receives support to enhance their personal and professional development.

Learn More

Emerging Professionals Network

The EPN (formerly the Young Professionals Network) is a committee of EDCO that aims to engage young and emerging professionals through networking, learning and mentoring opportunities. The group aims to nurture the next leaders in economic development by connecting them to peers and experienced professionals in the field. This is done through the EDCO Mentorship Program.

The EPN is a platform for young professionals to share experiences and to ask questions about career growth and development. The practice of economic development is dynamic and the EPN seeks to provide the resources and tools to enable young talent in the field to stay ahead of the curve. 

Join our LinkedIn Group & Join the Conversation

Economic Development Library

EDCO provides resources to ensure members have the tools they need to succeed. Working with government and academic partners the library aims to provide users with up to date information and research on a variety of topics. EDCO also assists members in reaching out to other members for input on best practices, project development and other related issues.

Visit the Library

Training at Reduced Rates

One of EDCO’s core objectives is the professional development of its members. EDCO professional development events educate and connect industry leaders across the profession.  As a member you have access to a variety of programs, designed to help you reach your full potential through interactive learning opportunities that are relevant and easily transferable to your workplace. EDCO training earns you certification points that can be applied to Ec.D. and CEcD designations.

View Upcoming Events


Supporting Committees

EDCO has a variety of committees that members can engage in to become involved in the association. Most committees meet on a regular basis throughout the year and members can expect to devote approximately 3 hours per month to committee involvement.

The work of the committees directly supports the vision of the Board and assists to carry out deliverables to the membership. Committees include; Professional Development, Stakeholder Relations, Conference, Emerging Professionals Network, Bright Ideas Competition and Awards.

Inquire about Joining a Committee

Discounts on Travel & Hotel

EDCO understands the challenges members face with budgets, as well as the need to travel for meetings, training and well deserved vacations. To assists with this EDCO has secured a partnership with VIA Rail and is happy to offer members a 5% corporate discount on all Via travel using the discount code 810822.

Book with VIA

EDCO has secured a corporate booking rate for 2022 with the Sheraton Centre Toronto hotel. EDCO members can use this for business or personal travel. Follow the link below to book your stay.

Reserve a Room

Attention Members: Add EDCO's logo to your website!

We encourage all members to add our logo to your organization's website! If you would like a copy, please contact grow@edco.on.ca.

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