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2023 Annual Conference

2023 Annual Conference
Dallas, TX is one of the country's most economically and socially diverse cities. The 1920s were an age of dramatic political, technological, and social change for some, yet not for others. In Dallas, we'll usher in the next-generation 'Roaring 20s,' spotlighting how to build thriving, sustainable, resilient, and equitable communities for tomorrow.

Our sights are set on ensuring future prosperity by focusing on economic diversity and resilience now, building on past successes, and inspiring the next ‘Roaring 20s!’ This innovative Annual Conference will explore, modernize, and grow successful industry strategies and practices by focusing on each of IEDC’s five strategic initiatives below.

To pay by check or PO, please download the PDF registration form.

If you require accessibility accommodations please contact cmerritt@iedconline.org and your message will be returned in 48 business hours.

Photo and Media Release: I understand my photograph or video may be taken during participation in any International Economic Development Council function. I hereby grant the International Economic Development Council permission to use my likeness in a photograph, video, or other digital media (“photo”) in any and all of its publications, including web-based publications, social media postings, or any physical or virtual collateral without payment or other consideration.
When
9/17/2023 - 9/20/2023
Where
Hilton Anatole 2201 N Stemmons Fwy Dallas, TX 75207 USA

Program

   

Saturday, 16 September 2023

Description
The 'Silicon Valley of Golf' Tour
Join us for a tour of PGA Frisco, the "Silicon Valley of golf." The PGA Frisco project is developing through a public-private partnership between PGA of America, Omni Hotels & Resorts, the City of Frisco, and the Frisco Independent School District, allowing Frisco residents and students to access its state-of-the-art facilities. The PGA Frisco partnership is estimated to create a regional economic impact of $2.5 billion over 20 years.  

This multifaceted project includes the headquarters of the Northern Texas PGA, two 18-hole world-class courses, a 10-hole short course, and a 30-acre practice facility; it also houses the 500 Omni PGA Frisco Resort with a 127,000-square foot convention center, a unique golf-themed retail experience, a 40,000-square foot clubhouse, and a 10,000-square foot performance center. 

The development occupies 660 acres of the more expansive 2,500-acre mixed-use development named "Fields," which will include corporate, residential, and retail spaces.
Time
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
2:00 PM

Sunday, 17 September 2023

Description
Economic Development Ethics Workshop (Sunday)
Are you faced with ethical dilemmas in your professional life? Do you have the tools to deal with ethical issues? Economic developers regularly encounter situations that require sound judgment and strength of character. Saying no is not always easy but may be the right thing to do. This session will provide essential instruction on ethics in economic development and will provide you with the tools to foster a culture of high standards in your organization. No theoretical lecture, this workshop will focus on real life ethical situations faced by economic developers where your decisions could mean the difference between success and failure in your career and life.

Ethics training is a requirement for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) recertification processes. CEcDs who seek recertification are required to have two hours of ethics training each time they recertify.
Time
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
3:30 PM

International Dinner
Join your colleagues for an informal dinner to celebrate the vibrant network of countries, regions, and cultures that make up the IEDC family. This event is for attendees from around the world who are engaged in international economic development, interested in learning more about economic development best practices in other countries, or looking to network with friends and colleagues from different corners of the world. 

Transportation: Bus 
Location: Texas Ale Project, 1001 N Riverfront Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207 
Audience: Open to all 
Registration required.
Time
6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
6:30 PM

LGBTQIA+ & Friends Reception
As this event's sponsor, Violet PR invites you to join economic development professionals from around the world who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community at this year's LGBTQIA+ & Friends Reception. Take a moment to meet with your colleagues for a light, relaxed networking opportunity to learn how your peers navigate the profession, leverage their unique perspectives, and support inclusive, more diverse communities. 

Location: Meddlesome Moth, 1621 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75207 
Audience: Open to all 
Registration required.
Time
7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
7:30 PM

Young Professionals Networking Reception
Are you newer to the field of economic development, a student, or under the age of 35? Meet with economic developers at similar stages of their careers for a Young Professionals Networking Reception. This event is one of the best opportunities to connect and engage with your colleagues from around the globe in a relaxed setting to get to know one another, share your experiences, and advance your career. 

Location: Community Brewery, 3110 Commonwealth Dr, Dallas, TX 75247 
Audience: Open to all 
Registration required.
Time
8:30 PM - 11:00 PM
8:30 PM

Monday, 18 September 2023

Description
Irving-Las Colinas Urban Center Tour
On this tour, you will experience what sets Irving-Las Colinas apart from the thriving business community and distinct urban center, featuring 125-acre Lake Carolyn and diverse housing, outdoor spaces, and entertainment options. Irving-Las Colinas is at the center of it all, recognized as the "Headquarters of Headquarters," and home to 10 Fortune 500 and four Fortune 1000 companies.

Adjacent to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, companies of all sizes, including Caterpillar, McKesson, Pioneer Natural Resources, Kimberly-Clark, and CHRISTUS Health, continue to take notice of Irving-Las Colinas, making it their new base of operations. Irving-Las Colinas offers 38.5 million sq. ft. of existing office space, 20 million sq. ft. being Class A, and several accessible sites ready to be developed.

This tour features an inside look into some of the leading local industries, highlights of the Irving-Las Colinas urban center, and views of some of the best-in-class lifestyle amenities, including spanning outdoor trails, over 80 recreation spaces, and TPC golf courses. 

You will also experience the Toyota Music Factory, developed by the ARK Group and the City of Irving for $175 million, a world-class entertainment venue in the city's urban center. A true destination, it features a 250,000 sq. ft. live entertainment venue, 100,000 sq. ft. of office space, 300,000 sq. ft. of restaurant space, an outdoor plaza, and a movie theater.
Time
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
9:00 AM

Economic Development Ethics Workshop (Monday)
Are you faced with ethical dilemmas in your professional life? Do you have the tools to deal with ethical issues? Economic developers regularly encounter situations that require sound judgment and strength of character. Saying no is not always easy but may be the right thing to do. This session will provide essential instruction on ethics in economic development and will provide you with the tools to foster a culture of high standards in your organization. No theoretical lecture, this workshop will focus on real life ethical situations faced by economic developers where your decisions could mean the difference between success and failure in your career and life.

Ethics training is a requirement for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) recertification processes. CEcDs who seek recertification are required to have two hours of ethics training each time they recertify.
Time
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
10:00 AM

EDRP Luncheon
If you are an Economic Development Research Partners (EDRP) member, you won't want to miss this year's membership exclusive networking lunch. We will discuss the world's most pressing economic development trends and challenges as we reflect on this year's influence on the profession. Learn and connect with fellow members, peers, and friends in a small, relaxed setting for an excellent opportunity to network. EDRP membership is required to participate. If you are not an EDRP member yet, join today! For further information on EDRP membership, please contact: Louise Anderson, Senior Director of Research, at landerson@iedconline.org. 

Audience: EDRP Members 
Price: Free, Registration required. 
Location: TBD
Time
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
11:30 AM

Defining Issues – How Do We Pay for Slavery?
Reparations - a system of redress for past injustices - are not foreign to the United States or the rest of the world. There are innumerable examples of actions and policies deployed to remedy past injustices that exploited and marginalized people. Although the conversation around reparations for Black Americans is not new, the movement has gained substantial traction as past and present injustices continue to come to light both locally and nationally. Despite attempts to address the egregious injustice of slavery, America has persistently fallen short and has yet to take meaningful, enduring, or impactful action. Join us for this discussion, where we will explore themes of atonement and justice through the eyes of communities trying to find a path forward and perspectives shared by various exploited and marginalized peoples. 

Audience: Open to all 
Location: Sapphire, Hilton Anatole
Time
12:45 PM - 2:00 PM
12:45 PM

Sponsored Lunch and Learn Session
This sponsored session is a great opportunity to put your expertise, products and services on display in front of the largest gathering of economic development professionals in the world. If you are interested in sponsoring this session, please contact Shari Nourick at snourick@iedconline.org for more information. 

Registration required. 
Audience: Open to all 
Location: Chantilly Ballroom, Hilton Anatole
Time
12:45 PM - 2:00 PM
12:45 PM

Women's Empowerment - ReFUEL, ReCHARGE, ReCONNECT
Madam Vice President, Woman of the Year, mother, CEO, entrepreneur, and wife are a few non-exclusive titles that women can and should be proud of. This Lunch & Learn session's theme is all about empowering, encouraging, and appreciating the pursuits of our own, self-defined successes. Hear how acknowledging our personal growth and accomplishments can strengthen, grow, and expand communities and organizations. Walk away from this session owning your presence while supporting and uplifting other women for the greater good of our communities, societies, and world. 

Location: Emerald Room, Hilton Anatole 
Audience: Open to all 
Registration required.
Time
12:45 PM - 2:00 PM
12:45 PM

Young Professional Networking Lunch
In today's competitive job market, the Young Professional Networking Lunch aims to cultivate an environment that brings together ambitious individuals to network and foster meaningful connections. This event offers participants an opportunity to break their regular routines and engage with like-minded professionals in a relaxed, professional setting. Sign up for this year’s YP Networking Lunch for your chance to connect with friends and colleagues at similar stages of your career from all corners of the globe. 

Please note: This event is limited to students and professionals 35 years of age or younger. 

Registration required. 
Location: Topaz, Hilton Anatole
Time
12:45 PM - 2:00 PM
12:45 PM

Tuesday, 19 September 2023

Description
CEcD Exam Essentials Workshop
The CEcD Exam Essentials workshop will provide attendees with a complete overview of the Certified Economic Developer exam process and provide you with tools and techniques that can be used for preparing for the certification exam. This workshop is a requirement for individuals who are planning to sit for the certification exam. If you are planning to sit for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) exam, it's never too early to start planning and learning more about the process. Attendees will learn tools and techniques for preparing for the exam and witness a mock oral interview.
Time
7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
7:00 AM

Urban Revitalization Tour At RedBird's 'The Shops'
The Shops at RedBird is a 100-acre, mixed-use development in southwest Dallas, Texas. Like many similar developments, RedBird provides the community it serves with a combination of high-quality retail, restaurants, medical facilities, offices, and apartments that the community desires, deserves and can afford. RedBird is distinguished by two key characteristics. First, RedBird is located on the site of the former Red Bird Mall, a 1970s-era mall, and is repurposing both the mall and its former retail anchors (Sears, Macy's, Dillard's) as professional and medical spaces. Second, RedBird serves a Black community that has been historically underserved and has not typically been provided with amenities of the appropriate quantity or quality. Tenants to date include: 200,000 sf of medical clinics (UT Southwestern, Parkland and Children's Health); 150,000 sf of offices; 300 Class A apartment units; the only Starbucks in the 200 square miles of Dallas south of I-30; and more.
Time
8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
8:00 AM

Southern Dallas Revitalization Tour at Fair Park
Join us for a tour of Fair Park, the only intact and unaltered pre-1950s world fair site in the United States. Its cultural, historical, and entertainment venues host international visitors annually. Between the art deco, architecture, history, and events, Fair Park reflects an all-in-one, unique destination for all visiting Dallas to experience.

Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1986, Fair Park spans 277 acres east of Downtown Dallas. Opening in 1886 with the Dallas State Fair, several structures, including the Centennial Building and Cotton Bowl Stadium, debuted between 1900 and 1930. Fair Park, however, became a part of the nation's consciousness in 1936 when state leaders chose it to host the world's fair commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Texas Republic. Architects and artists came from around the world to create various elements to establish the unique Art Deco throughout Fair Park; Texas' history, economy, flora, and fauna were highlighted in the buildings, statues, and murals designed for the world's fair.

We will also tour the South Dallas community, see the investments and progress made throughout the Dallas Catalyst Project in partnership with local anchor nonprofit institutions, and explore the revitalization story of the Forest District and Martin Luther King Boulevard.
Time
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
1:00 PM