4 Reasons Every Young Economic Developer Should Join SEDC

4 Reasons Every Young Economic Developer Should Join SEDC

Being a young professional can be daunting—especially in a field like economic development, where the competition is fierce and the landscape is constantly evolving. You likely entered the field because you want to make a meaningful impact on the community you love—but how do you get started? How do you grow, connect, and find your place in a career that’s as demanding as it is rewarding?

Fortunately, if you’re building your career in the American South, you’re already in one of the most exciting regions for economic development. It’s not just a great place to live because of our extraordinary communities—it’s also the premier place to do business in the world. Spanning 17 states, the South collectively forms the third-largest economy on the planet. But its strength lies in something greater than its size or economic output—it is in the unique balance of competition and collaboration that defines the region.

Southern states compete fiercely for investment, businesses, and talent, and this competition drives excellence. It pushes each state to refine its marketing strategies, strengthen its workforce, and develop innovative solutions that attract industries from across the globe. Yet, in tandem with this competitive spirit, there is a deep understanding that no economic developer succeeds alone. Relationships are the foundation of success in this field.

For more than 75 years, the Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC) has been the key player in fostering these relationships, bringing together the best economic development professionals in the region and equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive. If you are a young professional looking to build a successful career in this industry, joining SEDC is one of the smartest moves you can make. Here’s why.

1. Learn from the Best of the Best

SEDC is home to the best economic developers in the South—and consequentially, the world—who know that this industry is driven by knowledge, skill, and collaboration. By joining, you’ll be surrounded by top-tier professionals who have shaped the region’s economic landscape and who are eager to share their insights.

Opportunities to network with and learn from these industry giants can be career-defining. Casual conversations at a conference, direct mentorship, or simply observing how the best in the business operate, exposes you to a level of excellence that can elevate your own skills and approach.

2. Build a Network that Will Support Your Success

The South thrives on relationships and a spirit of reciprocity—and SEDC cultivates and strengthens that culture. It is a community of professionals who believe that when one community succeeds, the entire region moves forward.

Through SEDC, you have the opportunity to meet industry leaders with a vast array of professional experiences. No matter what challenge you face, there is always someone ready to offer guidance. From mentors who will shape your professional growth to peers who will become lifelong collaborators, joining SEDC is about becoming part of a network that will support you throughout your career.

3. Gain Access to Top-Tier Professional Development

Economic development is an evolving field—staying ahead means constantly improving your skills. SEDC offers its members a wealth of educational resources, ensuring that professionals have access to the latest insights, most innovative strategies, and best practices in the industry. These resources include:

• Webinars & Professional Resources – Stay updated on industry trends and policy changes.
• Industry Publications – Get expert insight on what’s shaping economic development in the South.
• Online Training & Tutorials – Gain skills and knowledge to stay at the top of the field.

SEDC provides the tools and resources to help you become excellent at what you do—because in this competitive industry, competence is necessary for success.

4. Attend the Best Conferences in the Industry

SEDC’s conferences are the gold standard in economic development. These events bring together hundreds of professionals from across the region—from seasoned veterans to emerging leaders—to exchange knowledge, share success stories, and form valuable connections.

And if you’re a young professional, these conferences will help you grow:

• The Site Selection Summit is the event that brings together site selection consultants, economic development experts, and business leaders to shape the future of investment and growth.
• The Annual Conference is the flagship event that gathers the most influential economic developers in the South to hear from high level speakers, discuss emerging issues in the region, and celebrate and promote new growth.
• The Emerging Leaders Conference is specifically designed for young professionals, focusing on leadership development, innovative strategies, and relationship building.

These conferences are where you can learn from the best of the best and start developing those critical relationships. They are where careers take off, partnerships form, and the future of economic development is shaped.

Invest in Your Future with SEDC

SEDC knows that the future of the South’s economic strength depends on investing in the next generation of professionals. In an industry as competitive as economic development, excellence is not optional—it’s essential. The best economic developers are those who continuously learn, build strong networks, and seize opportunities to grow and the South is determined to continue being the best place in the world to do business.

For over 75 years, SEDC has helped generations of professionals become leaders in this field. If you’re serious about making an impact, serving your community, and advancing your career, there’s no better place to start than with this organization.