2026 Basic Economic Development Course
2026 Basic Economic Development Course
June 8 - 11, 2026
ETEC Center at the University at Albany
Held in June, the Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC) introduces attendees to the practices of a broad economic development program. Through instruction, peer learning, and case studies, the New York BEDC offers a comprehensive educational experience in economic development fundamentals.
This course is designed to meet the needs of professionals and volunteers relatively new to the development field. Attendees will learn best practices to help prepare their communities for business retention and expansion, business attraction, and grow an entrepreneurial ecosystem. The course focuses on the development, organization, and operation of economic development activities in both the public and private sectors. The faculty of the BEDC is comprised of seasoned practitioners and consultants recognized for their experience and expertise across economic development practice. The course also highlights leading national and international trends and best practices in economic development.
The New York Basic Economic Development Course meets the core requirements prerequisite for practitioners who wish to sit for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) credential issued by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). To learn more about CEcD certification, visit the IEDC website. The Basic Economic Development course is equivalent to 3 credits in Applied Economic Development, a graduate level course at SUNY Empire State University's Masters in Community, and Economic Development program.
- Concepts of economic development
- Trends in economic development
- Development location
- Practical techniques and best practices of successful development
- Local, regional, and community Economic Development organizations
- Colleges and universities
- Chambers of commerce
- State agencies
- Planners
- Utilities
- Workforce Investment Boards (WIB)
Registration - Now Open! Register Here
Basic Economic Development Course Registration
Member Rate: $695.00
Future Member Rate: $795.00
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship opportunities for this event are now available. Email Stephanie Cavalier or call 518.426.4058 for more information.
Hotel Information
The NYSEDC has secured a limited room block at the Residence Inn by Marriott Albany. Rooms are $159.00 USD per night plus tax, and the last day to book is Friday, May 8.
Course Venue
ETEC Center at the University at Albany
1220 Washington Ave Suite 146, Albany, NY 12226
CLICK HERE FOR CAMPUS MAP + PARKING
2026 Course Syllabus
Course Introduction and Case Study Overview
- Christa Franzi | Vice President & Director of Entrepreneurship, Camoin Associates
Community Development in Theory and Practice
Area Development Survey Spreadsheet
Community Fit Matrix
Full Service EDO Functions
- Mark Waterhouse | President, Garnet Consulting Services, Inc.
Strategic Planning in Economic Development
- Mark Waterhouse | President, Garnet Consulting Services, Inc.
Small Business and Entrepreneurial Development
- Kate Baker | Director, Small Business Development Center, University at Albany
- Ross Pancoe | Senior Vice President, Pursuit
- Kevin O'Connor | CEO of Advance Albany County Alliance, Director of Economic Development for Albany County, NY
Workforce Development and Its Essential Role in Economic Development
- Therese Daly | President and Chief Executive Officer, United Way of New York State
- Brian Williams | Executive Director, Capital Region Workforce Development Board
Business Retention and Expansion
- Sarah Lee | Executive Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation
Global Economy and International Business
- Kathryn Bamberger | Senior International Trade Manager, Global NY Team, Empire State Development (ESD)
- Nick Oringer | Critical Infrastructure Analyst 1, Office of Counter Terrorism, Critical Infrastructure Unit, NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
Note: Slides from Nick Oringer are available during the class period only, in-person.
Financial Packaging and Incentives
- Patrick Kelly | CEO, St. Lawrence County IDA
- Jeff Janiszewski | SVP of Strategic Business Development / Global NY, Empire State Development
Ethics and Civility in Economic Development
- Amanda Fitzgerald | Partner, Barclay Damon
- Christa Franzi | Vice President & Director of Entrepreneurship, Camoin Associates
Marketing Your Community to Talent and Prospects
- Hanna Gbordzoe | Vice President, Digial, Development Counsellors International