LIDEA Professional Development
Become a CLED (Certified Louisiana Economic Developer)!
Louisiana's economic developer certification program is second to none! Beginning with the Basic Economic Development Course, recognized by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), it teaches participants the very latest cutting edge best practices in creating economic growth!
More info on how to become a CLED.
About LIDEA
The Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association (LIDEA) is a non-profit
trade organization whose mission is to increase the effectiveness of individuals involved
in the practice of economic development in Louisiana through education, public policy
advocacy, and collaboration; LIDEA is the voice of the profession in Louisiana.
LIDEA started the Certified Louisiana Economic Developer program in 2008 to help practitioners
become the best in the nation at growing economies in their communities.
Our partners include LED (Louisiana Economic Development), USDA Rural Development
and the Delta Regional Authority. We are able to offer affordable, best in nation
training due to their generous support!
We also enjoy generous support from AEP (American Electric Power) and GNO, Inc (Greater
New Orleans, Inc.), who have both been supporters of helping community leaders learn
economic development best practices for many years!
Classes Offered
Classes are constantly updated to make sure they include the most current best practice information and reference to the most up to date technologies available to accomplish the goals of professional economic development practitioners.
Meet the Leadership and Faculty
Our faculty and leadership team is made up of certified economic developers and current practitioners in the field. Our Dean is a PhD, with decades of experience working with communities all over the nation.
More info on current and past instructors.
Our Program Hosts
The Certified Louisiana Economic Developer (CLED) training program is a joint effort
between LIDEA, Southeastern Louisiana University, and Louisiana Economic Development.
Most courses are offered on the Southeastern Louisiana University campus. Event registration
will have information on classroom location.
LIDEA Professional Development Programs are an Equal Opportunity Provider. Special
accommodations will be made by participants with disabilities or special needs.
