Wisconsin Basic Economic Development Course

Graduation from the Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC) fulfills one of the prerequisites for those who wish to pursue the Certified Economic Developer Designation (CEcD) through the International Economic Development Council. The BEDC is designed to provide an understanding of the basic concepts, theories, methods and practice of economic development and will be taught by many of Wisconsin’s top economic development professionals. In order to receive full IEDC certification credit for this course and a certificate indicating course completion, participants must attend the entire course and stay through the final session on the last day. Please make travel plans accordingly.

View detailed schedule here*

*Subject to change slightly based on instructor availability. Watch [weda.org]weda.org to stay up-to-date. In order to receive full IEDC certification credit for this course and a certificate indicating course completion, participants must attend the entire course and stay through the final session on the last day. Please make travel plans accordingly.

Economic developers, public officials, young professionals in economic development or related industries, ACRE alumni, members of Wisconsin’s EDB Coalition, and others who want an intensive “basic” overview of economic development concepts, methods, strategies, and practices.

The fee for the three-day course is $1149, with discounts for WEDA members. Register early for additional savings! A limited number of BEDC scholarships may be available for the 2026 course for individuals with financial need, small and rural communities, and non-profits. For more information about scholarships, please contact WEDA at Lizar@badgerbay.co.

Classes will be held at Hotel Retlaw in Fond du Lac, WI – 1 N Main St, Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Hotel Retlaw
1 N Main St Fond du Lac, WI 54935
1.833.473.8529
WEDA discounted room rate: $101/p

Please mention Wisconsin Economic Development Association when booking to receive the WEDA discounted room rate ($101/person). Reservation must be made by June 8, 2026.

Please contact Liza at Lizar@badgerbay.co regarding event details and registration questions.

WEDA Scholarship Applications

WEDA is proud to offer a scholarship in order to help individuals and companies attend any WEDA events. BEDC scholarship applications are due by May 1, 2026

WEDA Members

Early Bird Registration
(Until APRIL 18, 2026)

$799

Regular Registration
(After APRIL 18, 2026)

$899

Non-Members

All Registration

$1149

June 22-25, 2026

The BEDC is hosted by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) , Wisconsin Economic Development Institute and Wisconsin Economic Development Association.