LEAD is committed to strengthening Louisiana’s economic development profession through accessible, high-quality professional development opportunities that support both emerging and experienced practitioners. Through strategic partnerships and nationally aligned programming, LEAD provides education and training designed to build core competencies, expand applied knowledge, and strengthen professional readiness across Louisiana’s economic development ecosystem.

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LEAD Professional Development

LEAD’s professional development programs are designed to support economic development professionals, Chamber of Commerce staff, elected officials, workforce and community development leaders, and other partners working to strengthen Louisiana’s communities and economy.

 

Our courses emphasize practical, actionable learning that participants can immediately apply within their organizations and communities. Programming focuses on strategic planning, leadership development, organizational effectiveness, economic development fundamentals, and emerging issues impacting Louisiana’s competitiveness.

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Select LEAD courses are IEDC-accredited, providing participants with access to nationally recognized training while supporting professional growth and advancement within the field of economic development. All courses are conducted in person at locations across Louisiana, creating valuable opportunities for collaboration, peer networking, and cross-sector engagement.

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LEADer Master Practitioner Certificate Program

LEAD offers the LEADer Master Practitioner Certificate Program, a structured, nationally aligned professional development pathway created specifically to support Louisiana’s economic development professionals. The program is designed to help participants build foundational and advanced competencies through LEAD programming, applied learning opportunities, and select IEDC-accredited coursework.

 

For more information about the LEADer Master Practitioner Certificate Program and upcoming courses, please click here.

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Certified Economic Developer (CEcD)

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) offers the globally recognized Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation, widely considered the gold standard within the economic development profession.

 

Through LEAD’s partnership with IEDC, Louisiana practitioners have expanded access to accredited educational opportunities that support professional growth, industry knowledge, and career advancement.

 

To learn more about the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation, click here to visit the IEDC website.