Sign In to Register for Events

IEDC 2026 Annual Conference

IEDC 2026 Annual Conference
Built for this Moment: Learning from Legacy, Leading with Impact

Calling all changemakers, visionaries, and developers, the 2026 IEDC Annual Conference is heading to New Orleans, Louisiana, October 25-28 at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans!

Join thousands of economic development professionals and thought leaders from around the world as we gather in a city that embodies resilience and reinvention. Together, we'll explore bold strategies, celebrate community transformation, and accelerate the future of economic development.

If you require accessibility accommodations please contact Carissa Merritt at cmerritt@iedc.org and your message will be responded to in 48 business hours. By interacting with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) or its agents, attending its events, or using its materials, I acknowledge and grant full permission for IEDC to use my likeness, information, photographs, recordings, or other forms of media in its publications without payment or further consideration. 

I understand that all media produced by IEDC, its agents, or contractors will become the property of the IEDC and authorize them to edit, exhibit, publish, or distribute it for any lawful purpose. I waive any right to inspect or approve the finished product where my likeness appears.
When
10/25/2026 - 10/28/2026
Where
Hyatt Regency New Orleans 601 Loyola Ave New Orleans 70113

Program

   
Description
Spouse/Family Rate registrant must:

- be accompanying a registered attendee;
- not an IEDC member, nor a related professional;
- be attending the IEDC Annual Conference in a social capacity only.

Spouse/Family rate registration is being offered to allow spouses and family members of registered attendees to accompany them socially for breakfast and in the Exhibit Hall, including all functions held within the Exhibit Hall (Chair’s Welcome Reception and Ice Cream Social). Spouse/Family registrants may purchase tickets to ticketed receptions, happy hours and tours.  Spouse/Family registration does not include attendance at any breakout or plenary sessions, including the keynote lunch. 

Spouse/Family Guests may not register themselves; guest registrations are affiliated with a fully registered attendee.
10/24/2026

This will be a guided tour of one of the most advanced beverage production facilities in the country with a guided tour of the Niagara Bottling Facility located in Tangipahoa Parish, LA. Get a close look at how Niagara’s high-quality bottled water is produced, from sourcing and purification to packaging and distribution. Learn about Niagara’s commitment to sustainability, innovative manufacturing and more. Important: Photography and videography are not allowed. Prohibited attire: Open-toed shoes, shorts or skirts. Guests wearing open-toed shoes, shorts or skirts will not be permitted to attend the tour.
Time
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
10/25/2026 9:00 AM

Start your conference experience strong with this session designed for first-time and solo attendees. You’ll receive introductions, practical tips, and insights to help make your IEDC Annual Conference experience valuable, productive, and enjoyable.
Time
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
10/25/2026 11:00 AM

Time
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
10/25/2026 7:00 PM

In this interactive Lunch and Learn, the team at Camoin Associates will walk through how economic developers are moving beyond static reporting toward real-time intelligence to spot at-risk businesses before they leave, find hidden growth opportunities, and build more resilient local economies.
Time
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
10/26/2026 12:15 PM

Time
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
10/26/2026 12:15 PM

Time
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
10/26/2026 12:15 PM

Join us for a candid and energizing Lunch and Learn focused on how emerging professionals can navigate, accelerate, and thrive in the world of economic development. Hear directly from dynamic leaders who started where you are and built impactful careers across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Time
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
10/26/2026 12:15 PM

What if your local economy could be dynamically shaped in real time? In this lunch & learn, we’ll explore how cities are using programmable incentives to influence spending behavior, support small businesses, and drive measurable economic outcomes. Learn how modern rewards infrastructure allows you to target campaigns by geography, category, and timing - driving local spending via a flexible, data-driven system. We’ll share real-world examples and practical frameworks learned across 100+ communities in launching and scaling this program. Expect candid stories, actionable advice, and the chance to connect with peers who are just as driven as you are.
Time
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
10/26/2026 12:15 PM

Across the field of economic development, women are advancing bold ideas, building strong communities, and leading with impact, while confronting unique and complex challenges.Hear from a panel of women leaders as they explore the realities of working on a traditionally male-dominated space, sharing personal and professional strategies they have used to thrive.
Time
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
10/26/2026 12:15 PM

Celebrate the power, progress, and potential of women in leadership at this delightful evening reception. Designed to honor the achievements of women across all sectors, this gathering offers a space for connection, collaboration, and inspiration.
Time
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
10/26/2026 6:00 PM

Join us for a dynamic gathering celebrating Black leadership in economic development. Connect, unwind, and engage in meaningful conversations on professional growth, representation, and community impact.
Time
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
10/26/2026 7:00 PM

Join members and friends at this year’s LGBTQIA+ reception. Attendees are sure to enjoy the evening, engaging in meaningful conversations with peers from the ED community. Learn how your peers navigate the profession, leverage their unique perspectives, and support inclusive and more diverse communities.
Time
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
10/26/2026 7:00 PM

Build a foundation in ethical decision-making through guided instruction on key issues shaping the profession. The first portion of the economic development ethics workshop introduces common challenges and practical strategies to help economic development professionals navigate ethical considerations in their work. Part 2 requires attendees to apply skills from the first portion of the workshop to situations that they may face in their actual work. Attendees will review and discuss within smaller groups before presenting their findings and opinions to the entire session. Must attend both sessions to receive credit.
Time
11:00 AM - 3:15 PM
10/27/2026 11:00 AM

10/27/2026 6:00 PM