• MEDC becomes one of only two state economic development agencies to receive esteemed AEDO accreditation through rigorous peer review process
• Demonstrates MEDC and State of Michigan’s commitment to highest levels of accountability, transparency, and effectiveness

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has officially been designated as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) – a prestigious honor that recognizes professional excellence among economic development organizations worldwide.

With this announcement, the MEDC is one of 86 AEDO-accredited economic development organizations across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, and is one of only two U.S. state agencies to receive AEDO accreditation, affirming its position as a national leader in economic development strategy, innovation, and execution.

Under the Make It in Michigan economic development strategy, the state focuses on growing Michigan’s prosperity and population by pursuing investments in three core pillars: People, Places, and Projects. The strategy has already delivered results in strengthening Michigan’s workforce, investing in vibrant communities, and winning transformative economic development projects that position the state for long-term growth.

“Team Michigan is working tirelessly to invest in Michigan’s people and places to win projects and grow our economy,” said Governor Whitmer. “This prestigious accreditation is a testament to their commitment and vision. With this recognition, Michigan stands among the best in North America for economic development, proving to businesses everywhere that we’re serious about creating good-paying jobs, attracting investment, and building a stronger economy for everyone who calls Michigan home. Let’s keep getting things done and building a brighter future where every Michigander can succeed.”

“Our number one priority as public servants is to help more people be their best selves and reach their full potential right here in Michigan,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “This accreditation is proof of the progress we are making as we grow Michigan’s economy, build more vibrant communities, and invest in our people. Let’s keep working together to build a bright future for our state.”

“The International Economic Development Council’s AEDO accreditation is the gold standard in economic development, and it affirms what we already know: that Team Michigan is focused collectively daily on creating a place where great ideas, great people, and great companies come together to build a stronger, more inclusive economy,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the MEDC. “It confirms our Make It in Michigan economic development strategy is helping businesses grow, communities revitalize, and Michiganders succeed, creating good-paying jobs and building a future where everyone can thrive. While we know that work remains, I am grateful to the IEDC for this accreditation, and celebrate our partners in Governor Whitmer’s administration, the Michigan Legislature, and fellow economic development organizations, job creators and municipal leaders as we work collaboratively to improve the economic lives of 10-million-plus friends and neighbors.”

As an AEDO, the MEDC joins an elite group of economic development organizations that have demonstrated the highest level of accountability, transparency, and effectiveness. This designation strengthens the state’s reputation among site selectors, investors, and businesses across the globe.

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.

Earning the AEDO accreditation tells the community and prospects that MEDC has attained a measure of excellence assuring their trust is well-placed and their business is in good hands. Maintenance of the AEDO status is required every three years and is accomplished through documentation submission and/or onsite visits by a team of the AEDO subcommittee.

“Congratulations to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation on their recognition as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO). As only the second accredited state agency, MEDC displays the professionalism and excellence that is tantamount to what accreditation represents. Their commitment to implementing best practices, particularly in preparing for Industry 5.0 and through their emerging developers program, demonstrates their forward-thinking leadership in the field. IEDC is pleased to recognize and celebrate MEDC’s ongoing exemplary work and leadership in economic development,” said IEDC President and Chief Executive Officer Nathan Ohle.

“Congratulations to the MEDC for being awarded as an Accredited Economic Development Organization!  There are thousands of EDO’s in North America, but less than 100 have received this designation, making this a significate achievement for MEDC’s high standards and professional excellence!”  said JoAnn Crary, CEcD, FM, HLM.

“Receiving AEDO certification is a tremendous honor and a testament to the MEDC’s commitment to making our state the number one destination where people want to live, and businesses want to grow. Congratulations from all of us at The Right Place, and we look forward to continuing our strong partnership,” said Randy Thelen, President & CEO, The Right Place.

“The IEDC’s recognition of the MEDC as an Accredited Economic Development Organization is not only well-deserved but exciting in that it measures the MEDC against the best in the business. In doing so, it assures residents, employers, businesses prospects and elected officials that their trust in the MEDC is well-placed and that Michigan’s economic development agency is executing its responsibilities capably and professionally, thereby positioning the State for further economic development success.  Congratulations Team MEDC!” said Marty Fittante, CEO, InvestUP.

“We are excited and proud to see the Michigan Economic Development Corporation join our organization and several others throughout the state as an AEDO. This designation shows they are running a best-in-class operation and should also give great confidence to businesses and developers who want to invest in Michigan that the MEDC is a great partner in helping them be successful,” said Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership President/CEO Justin Horvath.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.