OCED Training #1: Economic Development 101

Join us in Salem for OCED Training #1: Economic Development 101

Build a strong foundation in the tools, strategies, partnerships, and real-world practices that drive successful economic development in Oregon communities.

This full-day training will take place at the Salem Convention Center just before the opening event of the 2026 Annual Conference, the Welcome Reception, scheduled for Sunday evening at 5:00 pm.

Not sure whether your organization is an OEDA Member? Please email info@oeda.biz before registering so we can help confirm your membership status and ensure you do not miss out on significant registration discounts and member benefits.

IMPORTANT REGISTRATION NOTE: Although this OCED Training Course is being held at the Salem Convention Center in conjunction with the 2026 OEDA Annual Conference, it is a separate event with separate registration from the Annual Conference. Registering for OCED Training #1: Economic Development 101 does not automatically register you for the Annual Conference, and registering for the Annual Conference does not automatically register you for this training course. If you plan to attend both the training course and the Annual Conference, please be sure to complete registration for each event separately and book hotel accommodations accordingly.

COURSE OVERVIEW

The Economic Development 101 course is designed for practitioners, public-sector leaders, educators, industry and community partners, and any professional seeking a stronger understanding of the core principles, tools, and practices that support business growth, community prosperity, and long-term economic resilience.

Attendees will learn from expert consultants, economic development leaders, and successful industry practitioners about the basic tools, processes, and metrics that shape economic development work.

This immersive, full-day course will introduce participants to foundational economic development concepts while creating opportunities for discussion, peer learning, applied exercises, and real-world case study analysis. Participants can expect a dynamic learning experience that includes expert-led instruction, individual and group activities, course assignments, case studies, and valuable networking with practitioners and leaders from across Oregon.

Registration includes a full day of professional training and all course-related resources, including:

• Expert-led lessons and instruction
• Individual and group assignments and activities
• Case study analysis and applied learning exercises
• Access to instructor profiles and course materials
• Networking with economic development peers and partners
• Catered breakfast
• Catered lunch
• Coffee and refreshment breaks

AGENDA OVERVIEW

• Doors open at 7:30 am
• Class begins promptly at 8:00 am with class introductions
• Catered breakfast and lunch included
• Snacks and refreshments provided throughout the day
• Pop Quizzlers and Extra Credit Assignments for special treats and prizes!
• Classes conclude at 4:00 pm

ENROLLED OCED STUDENTS:

• Attendance is taken 15-minutes after the start of class and again following the lunch break.
• Complete attendance and timely assignment submissions are required for course credit, as well as full participation in all course activities, Q&A, and group discussions.
• If completed, this training equals eight (8) credit hours toward certification.

VENUE & HOTEL INFORMATION

VENUE DETAILS

The Salem Convention Center is located in the heart of downtown Salem and is connected to The Grand Hotel in Salem.

Salem Convention Center

200 Commercial Street SE

Salem, OR 97301

Phone: (503) 589-1700

PARKING: Complimentary underground parking is available for Grand Hotel guests and Salem Convention Center event attendees.

Underground parking garage entrance:

201 Liberty Street SE

Salem, OR 97301

Enter from Liberty Street at the front of the hotel.

HOTEL RESERVATIONS

OEDA has secured a special room block at The Grand Hotel in Salem for both the OCED Training Course and 2020 Annual Conference attendees! The Grand Hotel is located just a few indoor steps from the Salem Convention Center, making it a convenient option for our guests.

The Grand Hotel

201 Liberty Street SE

Salem, OR 97301

Phone: (503) 540-7800 or 1-877-540-7800

Underground parking garage entrance:

201 Liberty Street SE

Salem, OR 97301

Enter from Liberty Street at the front of the hotel.

OEDA Room Block Rates

Deluxe King Rooms: $179 + tax

Deluxe Double Queen Rooms: $189 + tax

Planning to Attend the Annual Conference Too?

The OCED Training Course will be held on Sunday, October 25, immediately before the 2026 OEDA Annual Conference Welcome Reception from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

The full Annual Conference runs October 25–27, 2026, so attendees who plan to participate in both the OCED Training Course and the Annual Conference should book their hotel stay accordingly. At minimum, conference attendees will likely need to reserve at least one additional hotel night beyond the training course date.

GET INVOLVED

The Professional Development Committee identifies, organizes and delivers educational training opportunities and manages the Oregon Certified Economic Developer (OCED) certification program.

As a member of the Professional Development Committee, you collaborate with a network of your peers across the state to design and produce the educational offerings that you would like to see. Committee members serve important leadership roles in the field of economic development. Members can participate from anywhere in the state. We invite you to join this dynamic and collaborative volunteer committee!

THANK YOU TO OUR PROGRAM INVESTORS!