Investing in Community Growth Through Economic Development Education

From May 4th to 8th, the ECI Regional Planning District’s Officer of Community Engagement, Anna King-Cross, participated in Ball State University’s Indiana Economic Development Course, an intensive week-long program designed to strengthen knowledge and leadership in community and economic development.

Anna attended the course through a sponsorship provided by Indiana Michigan Power, whose support helped make this professional development opportunity possible.

For more than 40 years, Ball State’s Economic Development Course has equipped professionals with foundational knowledge in economic, industrial, business, entrepreneurial, workforce, and community development. Recognized as the official “basic course” for the International Certified Economic Developer Certification, the program offers a comprehensive educational experience in the theory and practice of strategic approaches to building and sustaining thriving communities.

The course has welcomed more than 2,200 alumni over the years, including local economic development officials, community developers, consultants, nonprofit leaders, and elected officials who serve communities across the country.

Through this experience, Anna gained valuable insight into strategies and best practices that can support long-term community growth and regional collaboration throughout East Central Indiana. Opportunities like this reinforce ECIRPD’s commitment to investing in leadership development and strengthening the communities it serves.

ECIRPD extends its appreciation to Indiana Michigan Power for sponsoring Anna’s participation and supporting continued learning in the field of community and economic development.