Membership
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.
When you are an EDCO member there are a number of discounts you can access. View Membership Discounts here.
Today's membership embraces a broad spectrum of over 1,200 economic development practitioners from rural and urban Ontario, across a variety of professions and at all levels of the public and private sectors. Much of our membership is made up of municipalities, however EDCO members come from all sectors, including private corporations, Provincial ministries, Federal departments, not-for-profit organizations, educational Institutes, young professionals, consultants, and retirees.
EDCO delivers high quality programming to its valued members including: training, professional development, resources, recognition programs and networking events. Our members receive the support required to achieve success.
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.
Member Benefits
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. An Emerging 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.
Economic Development Resource 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.
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.
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.