PEcD Designation
PEcD Designation
The Professional Economic Developer (PEcD) designation recognizes professionals in Alberta who have completed foundational training in community economic development through EDA, and have demonstrated a commitment to ongoing professional standards.
As a PEcD holder, you are recognized for possessing the knowledge, skills, and core competencies that enable you to contribute meaningfully to sustainable growth and prosperity in your community.
Your PEcD credentials reflect competency across a broad set of skills, encompassing strategic, operational, analytical, and community-facing dimensions. These competencies equip you to:
Develop and implement economic development strategies and community investment plans.
Evaluate community economic conditions, analyze market trends, and assess investment or business attraction opportunities.
Support and promote business retention and expansion, investment readiness, and community resilience initiatives.
Facilitate collaboration amongst local government, private sector, community organizations, and residents to foster inclusive, sustainable economic growth.
Communicate effectively, translate data and strategy into clear recommendations, engage stakeholders, and present economic development plans with clarity.
Uphold high ethical standards and professional integrity while serving the broader public interest and community welfare.
In this way, the PEcD credential signals that you are equipped to help your community navigate economic challenges, attract investment, support local businesses, and build a strong foundation for long-term prosperity.
To obtain a PEcD, the following criteria must be met:
- Completion of EDA's Community Economic Development Certificate
- Submit a $100 application fee
- Applicant must be an EDA Member (in good standing)- this includes “Full”, “Affiliate “and “Honorary Life” members
- Submit a reference letter from a third party supporting the application. The reference should come from someone working in, or familiar with, the economic development profession.
The EDA PEcD must be renewed every 3 years. An automated reminder will be generated to commence the process.
To renew:- Retake the Ethics Course
- Application fee- $100
- Fill out online form- advising of any EDA courses/seminars/events they have taken over the past three years, as well as economic development projects they’ve worked on over the last 3 years.
- Updated resume
