Elgin Development Group Accredited by the International Economic Development Council

[Washington, DC] – The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) announces that the Elgin Development Group (EDG), a program of the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, has been recognized by IEDC as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO). “IEDC accreditation of our economic development program confirms that we are committed to excellence. Congratulations to the EDG on becoming one of only 75 Accredited Economic Development Organizations in the U.S., Mexico and Canada,” says Mayor David Kaptain.

“The Elgin Development Group displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor,” said IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle.

The AEDO program is a comprehensive peer review process that measures economic development organizations against commonly held standards in the profession. The program consists of two phases: a documentation review and an onsite visit. Each phase is designed to evaluate information about the structure, organization, funding, programs, and staff of the candidate economic development organization. 

Rick Kozal, Elgin City Manager, stated, “The EDG is an experienced economic development organization with the ability to identify projects and programs that are beneficial to Elgin’s future. Congratulations on their obtaining AEDO status through the IEDC.”

Earning the AEDO accreditation tells the community and prospects that the Elgin Development Group has attained a measure of excellence assuring that their trust is well-placed, and their business is in good hands. “The Elgin Development Group sets itself apart from other communities by becoming an Accredited Economic Development Organization. Existing and new businesses can be assured that they will be taken care of regardless of their size, assistance that they need, or issue,” says Tony Lucenko, Director, Elgin Development Group.

The International Economic Development Council is the largest membership association serving economic and community development professionals in the world. With over 5,000 members nationwide and abroad, IEDC offers the economic development profession one source for information and professional development, one voice for the profession and one force for advocacy. 

“IEDC accreditation is an affirmation that our economic development program is one of the best in the nation and that we stand ready to assist existing and new businesses, while always keeping the best interests of Elgin residents in mind,” says Carol Gieske, Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO.