MEMBER SERVICES

The GLEDC is a leading professional association for economic development practitioners and others interested in the growth and prosperity of the region. We seek to build relations, encourage collaboration, provide resources and share best practices. In short, the GLEDC provides its members with year-round opportunities and offerings to help impact their respective communities.

Enhance your network
The GLEDC places a major focus on connecting economic developers throughout the region with each other, to further understanding, seek common solutions and share best practices.  Networking is a vital component of economic development that keeps members attuned to activities across the Great Lakes.  We accomplish this through the annual conferences, local chapter meetings, educational opportunities and other professional resources.

Broaden Your Knowledge 

GLEDC events are held through-out the year in various locations across the Great Lakes region.  These events feature industry-leading professionals, state and provincial leaders, and subject matter experts on issues related to the Great Lakes region.  They feature community best practices related to place marketing, workforce development and infrastructure. The roster of exciting speakers and outstanding programs serves as a forum for the exchange of ideas on current issues affecting economic development in the Great Lakes. We also offer members an opportunity to expand their knowledge and strengthen skills by participating in seminars and other training programs held in partnership with leading universities and development associations. Resources are archived and available through the Members Only section of the GLEDC website. 

Strengthen Your Community 

With a focus on targeted training and facilitating meaningful knowledge sharing, GLEDC develops and offers its members various resources to assist making communities more competitive.  Providing access to everything from white papers and research reports to marketing support and advisory services, the GLEDC is your best resource for cutting- edge trends in corporate real estate. Our conferences also help communities benchmark their practices through our recognition and awards program.

Marketing and Lead Generation

GLEDC members have access to an online listing of career opportunities on our Career Connections page.  Also by staying informed of best practices, developing relationships with others in the industry and developing leadership skills through volunteer opportunities, members can further their career potential.  Organizations can also list job openings and find the perfect candidate by advertising online. The GLEDC can also provide fractional and interim management of EDOs. 

Organizational Development 

GLEDC members have access to subject matter experts on organizational issues such as strategic planning, technology enhancements, board management, budgeting & finance, and more. Members can thus adopt best practices and improve both performance and competitiveness.  

Stay Informed 

The GLEDC's online resources provide timely information, allows members to browse the Member Directory and register for events. It includes a Members Only section which provides sample contracts, manuals and other organizational forms, access to bulletin boards, legislative news and more. Our newsletter, Next Wave,  updates members on regional development activities, legislative issues, career opportunities, and membership events.