The Town of Queen Creek’s Economic Development Department recently became an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The accreditation demonstrates professional excellence, with only 61 organizations receiving the designation.
“The Queen Creek Economic Development Department displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor,” said IEDC President and CEO Jeff Finkle.
The AEDO program is a comprehensive peer review process that measures economic development organizations against commonly held standards in the profession. The program consists of two phases: a documentation review and an onsite visit. Each phase is designed to evaluate information about the structure, organization, funding, programs, and staff of the organization.
“This important designation demonstrates Queen Creek has attained a measure of excellence,” stated Queen Creek Mayor Gail Barney. “We have professional and dedicated economic development staff working hard to support our current businesses, as well as attract new businesses to the area. The AEDO accreditation confirms they are using best practices and the necessary tools to help Queen Creek thrive.”
Consistent with the Department’s commitment to excellence in the field, Queen Creek’s Economic Development Coordinator Marissa Garnett recently completed the IEDC Certified Economic Developer program. The certification is the leading industry designation and ensures the individual possess the necessary expertise and skills through education and extensive certification process.
“Marissa continues to be an asset to the organization, the community and the region,” stated Economic Development Director Doreen Cott. “Her certification furthers her knowledge of the field and will enhance our ability to serve current and future businesses.”
The International Economic Development Council is the largest membership association serving economic and community development professionals in the world. With over 5,000 members nationwide and abroad, IEDC offers the economic development profession one source for information and professional development, one voice for the profession and one force for advocacy. For more information on IEDC or the AEDO program visit IEDConline.org.
For more information about Queen Creek’s Economic Development Department, visit QueenCreek.org/InvesttheQC or follow Twitter.com/InvesttheQC. For detailed information about investment opportunities in Queen Creek, visit InvestTheQC.com. To view a list of new businesses coming to Town, visit QueenCreek.org/NewBusinesses.
Media Contact:
Constance Halonen-Wilson, Public Information Officer
480-358-3195