The Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) is partnering with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) to present a three-day course on economic development finance.

“As economic development professionals initiate programs and projects to improve the economic health of their communities, it is essential for them to have a clear understanding of how these activities are financed,” says Laurie M. Boyer, CEcD, President of MEDA.

The core objective of the economic development finance course is to explain the financial tools used to stimulate private sector investment, resulting in the creation of permanent, private sector jobs, increased productivity, and improvement of the local tax base.

The course will cover a broad spectrum of finance programs, including small business development and real estate development. Specific topics will include small business lending, community development financial institutions, revolving loan funds, real estate financing and new markets, historic preservation, and low-income housing tax credits. Participants will work through case studies to solidify their knowledge of these programs.

This marks the ninth year that MEDA is partnering with the IEDC to provide courses in Maryland that will be credited toward the Certification in Economic Development (CEcD) designation.

MEDA members who are interested in either skills development and/or certification can take advantage of the Lofton Scholarship, mentorship, and other professional development efforts offered through the organization. Applications are available through the MEDA web site.

“The course is open to anyone who wishes to register,” says Heather M. Gramm, CEcD, Professional Development Chair of MEDA.

“There is, however, a reduced rate for MEDA and IEDC members. Being a MEDA member provides a vast array of benefits, including the scholarships and a confidential mentoring program.”

The economic development finance program will be held November 16-18, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily, at the Sheraton Baltimore City Center (101 W. Fayette Street in Downtown Baltimore). Registration for the three-day course is $525 for MEDA and IEDC members before October 5 and $625 for non-members. To register, visit www.iedconline.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Ray Weiss 443-451-7144
or rweiss@weissprassociates.com
ABERDEEN, MD (9/14/11)