Welcome to the Government and Economic Development Institute (GEDI) at Auburn University. We promote effective government policy and management, civic engagement, economic prosperity and improved quality of life for the State of Alabama and its communities through multiple initiatives, training and workshop opportunities. Our year-round programs offer participants the chance to learn from and network with leaders in our community and cover a variety of topics concerning economic development and government engagement. Explore our current training schedule and flagship events below.
Events
2025 GEDI-EDAA Leadership Institute
The GEDI/EDAA Leadership Institute offers courses focused on educating and engaging elected officials, economic development professionals and other community leaders about key issues in economic and community development. Topics and course locations vary throughout the year. Find out more on how you can enhance or learn new skills via the registration link below.
2025 Course Schedule
- February 20 - Auburn: Retail Attraction and Development
- April 23 - Gadsden: Placemaking for Economic Development
- June 18 - Auburn: Branding and Marketing Your Community for Success
- October 14 - Prattville: Essentials of Economic Development
- November 18 - Auburn: Leveraging Alabama Financing Programs for Local Economic Development
2025 Intensive Economic Development Training Course
This GEDI-sponsored annual course provides a rigorous introduction to economic development over two week-long sessions. This course fulfills one of the prerequisites for those who wish to take the examinations for the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation, and all attendees who complete both sessions will receive a certificate of completion. Visit the link below for more information.
2025 Course Schedule
- July 14-18 - Week One: Overview of general economic development principles. Accredited by the International Economic Development Council.
- September 8-11 - Week Two: Focuses on issues and resources in Alabama.
Government Trainings and Certification Opportunities
In addition to our economic development initiatives, GEDI offers several government certifications and trainings. Certifications include the Local Government Professional Management Certification Program, the Alabama Certified Revenue Examiner Program, the Licensing Administration Certification Program, Property Tax Administration and more. Learn more and explore all of our government programs via the Government Training option in our main menu.
