“Furthering economic development is rarely a simple task in the best of times, and advancing the cause in the midst of a global financial crisis is nothing less than arduous,” said Ian Bromley, IEDC chair. “As the consequences of the widespread economic turmoil have taken hold, we have seen our members become even more ardent proponents of economic development, flying in the face of one of the most challenging economic environments we have experienced in our careers.” That was a main message delivered during the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) annual conference October 4-7, 2009 at the Silver Legacy Hotel in Reno, Nevada.

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the premier membership organization dedicated to helping economic development professionals create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities and improve the quality of life in their regions. Serving more than 4,600 members, IEDC represents the largest network of economic development professionals in the world. This year’s annual meeting theme was Renewable Communities Leveraging Your Competitive Resources.

Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation is an IEDC member and Charlie Walker, President/CEO attended and was moderator of a session at the conference called Resiliency: When the Factor Closes. The session taught attendees how to look for signs an employer is facing difficulties, how to strategically plan should a major layoff occur, and best strategies like Chippewa County’s “accidental entrepreneurs “ were discussed. 

Mr. Walker took the opportunity to discuss Chippewa County with Department of Agriculture Deputy Undersecretary of Policy and Planning Victor Vasquez. Undersecretary Vasquez holds a pivotal role in domestic economic recovery efforts.  He is a top official that oversees the USDA Rural Development programs.  CCEDC President Charlie Walker and representatives from Site Selection Services also had dinner with four site selectors that attended the conference. This is part of CCEDC’s ongoing external marketing program aimed at exposing Chippewa County to nationwide site selectors.