International Economic Development Council (IEDC) 2012 Annual Conference

Economic developers can’t afford to use the same strategies they’ve always used and expect different results. Instead, everchanging dynamics in business and the economy require creative new responses.

The International Economic Development Council’s 2012 Annual Conference, September 30 - October 3 in Houston, Texas, will address the challenges and opportunities of growing jobs and investment in today’s global economy. By energizing and empowering regional partners through shared messaging, resources, and best practices, communities small and large can reap the benefits and remain competitive. The conference will explore key questions facing the economic development profession, including:

• How can communities capture opportunities today to catalyze growth for tomorrow?
• What tools and strategies are essential to making communities relevant and resilient in the changing global economy?
• How can economic developers sharpen their skills to become more flexible, adaptable leaders?
• How can communities identify and develop assets that are cost-effective and complement their strengths?

After tough times in the 1980s, Houston-area leaders laid a foundation for growth based on sound planning, a regional approach, and global competitiveness. Now, as the last U.S. region to enter the Great Recession and the first to emerge, Houston is a model of economic resiliency. Through a program of top speakers, cutting-edge topics, and educational tours, conference attendees will not only experience the region’s spirit of cooperation and innovation, but leave with new tools and strategies to take their organizations to the next level.