Ithaca, NY, (August 24, 2023) – Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) has once again been recognized as one of only 73 economic development organizations accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO). Originally accredited in 2020,IAED was reaccredited by IEDC following three successful years of activity as an AEDO member.
“AEDO accreditation validates that IAED is an established and well-run institution. It lends credibility to our external relations with partners and customers, and confirms that our internal operations are equally competent,” stated Heather McDaniel, IAED President. “I am proud of what our professional team continues to accomplish with our partner organizations. This recognition affirms our commitment to economic development Ithaca, Tompkins County and Central New York State”.
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, program, and staff of the candidate economic development organization.
“Ithaca Area Economic Development displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO.
Earning the AEDO accreditation tells the community and prospects that IAED attained a measure of excellence, assuring that their trust is well placed, and their business is in good hands. Maintenance of the AEDO status is required every three years. In its most recent report, the IEDC noted that “seldom in the experience of these reviewers have recommendations been so fully addressed by the AEDO.”
