Our History
EDCO is an independent, non-profit, incorporated association of persons engaged in economic development. The Council was organized in 1957 and incorporated in 1962 as the Ontario Industrial Developers Council Inc. In 1991, the Council changed its name to the Economic Developers Council of Ontario Incorporated to reflect the changing nature of the profession.
Today's membership embraces a broad spectrum of development individuals at all levels... each adding their specialized knowledge to the growing accumulation of valuable information available through the Council.
Members of EDCO are regularly exposed to new ideas in the ever expanding field of economic development. The old O.I.D.C. insignia and the new EDCO logo are recognized as the marks of the professional in economic development. Our members' constant contact with all phases of the development process makes them valued individuals within the development network. Through this interchange of ideas, members of EDCO bring a high degree of expertise and awareness to the complex business of community development. These skills are available to industrial/commercial/tourism enterprises as well as municipal policy makers who wish to broaden their community's tax base and employment opportunities.
The Council holds one annual conference and several professional development events in different communities throughout Ontario. These meetings provide a forum for networking and exchange of ideas. In addition, seminars are held in co-operation with various levels of government and the private sector.
The province of Ontario offers outstanding opportunities in every area of economic development. Recognizing and developing these opportunities is a job for professionals. EDCO can smooth the road to success for you and your Company or Community.
Our Vision
Enhance and develop an economically viable and environmentally responsible Ontario.
Our Mission
EDCO will provide leadership to enhance the professional development of its members; advance economic development as a profession and support our municipalities in fostering economic prosperity in the province of Ontario.
Our Key Strategies
- Increase awareness of EDCO as the lead economic development organization in Ontario on the part of government and other key economic development stakeholders.
- EDCO will pursue stronger communications with members, partners and stakeholders with the priority given to the EDCO website.
- EDCO will be known as a leading professional economic development organization with a strong, relevant voice for economic development both in the economic development community and related audiences.
- Support the role and function of the Economic Development Officer though enhanced training and eduction and a strengthening of their position within local government.