BRIAN COOMBES
PENTICTON – Brian Coombes, Chair of the British Columbia Economic Development Association (BCEDA), announced the launch of the Certified Economic Development Professional of British Columbia (CEDP.BC) certification.
The CEDP.BC certification prioritizes practical skills over rigid educational requirements. It recognizes the diverse and interdisciplinary nature of the community and economic development sector, as Economic Development Officers fall under code 41402 – Business development officers, market researchers, and analysts in the National Occupation Classification, the CEDP.BC aims to address the need for certified professionals in this field, potentially influencing future classification updates.
This certification program aims to encompass a wide range of industry-relevant practices, including community development, business development, traditional economic development, and related professions. Participation in the certification process will be optional, providing professionals with an opportunity to enhance their skills and credentials.
Established in 1981, BCEDA has been at the forefront of economic development in British Columbia, with the goal of supporting practitioners and community leaders across various economic development activities.
“The introduction of the CEDP.BC certification is an important step as BCEDA works to bridge the gap in provincial certification programs, while emphasizing the importance of integrating economic development into every community in the Province. This unique certification program will ensure that EDOs have new tools for skills advancement in all aspects of economic development practices,” said Brian Coombes, Chair of BCEDA.
The CEDP.BC certification will:
- Assist Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities in building economic capacity by ensuring professionals meet a minimum standard of expertise and knowledge.
- Establish a standard for ongoing professional development in this vital community role.
- Enhance recognition for economic development professionals by providing a baseline credential for employment in the community and economic development sectors.
- Collaborate with existing certifying bodies nationally and internationally, including CANDO, EDAC, and IEDC.
Business Examiner Staff
