The Steuben County Economic Development Corporation Earns Prestigious National Accreditation

The Steuben County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) has officially joined the ranks of top-performing economic development organizations in North America by earning the Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) designation from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).

Only 110 organizations across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico hold this certification. Within Indiana, SCEDC becomes just the third to achieve AEDO status, joining Muncie–Delaware County Economic Development Alliance and the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership.

What AEDO Accreditation Means for Steuben County

The AEDO program is a rigorous, third-party evaluation of organizational performance, structure, strategy, and service delivery. Earning this accreditation confirms that SCEDC operates at the highest level of professional economic development practice.

This accreditation matters for one reason: impact.

Investors, site selectors, and public-sector partners now have formal assurance that SCEDC possesses the necessary systems, leadership, and results to support business growth. Accreditation validates SCEDC’s ability to attract capital, recruit talent, and drive long-term development outcomes.

Direct Benefits for the County

The AEDO designation is more than a title. It brings practical, ongoing value to the organization and community:

Increased Credibility with Investors and Funders

Accreditation serves as a signal to public and private stakeholders that SCEDC meets national standards of excellence. This increased credibility improves the region’s positioning during capital campaigns, public funding opportunities, and political transitions.

Stronger Investor Recruitment

The AEDO brand carries weight with executives and site consultants. It supports conversations with businesses considering Steuben County as a location for expansion or relocation.

More Efficient Internal Operations 

As part of the review process, SCEDC underwent a thorough organizational audit. The resulting report provided targeted recommendations to improve alignment, increase efficiency, and enhance service delivery.

Enhanced Talent Retention and Attraction 

AEDO status is a talent magnet. High-performing professionals in the economic development field recognize the value of working with a nationally accredited organization.

Ongoing Strategic Support

The AEDO process creates lasting connections. Accredited organizations gain access to a peer network and expert advisors who understand the demands of operating at a high level and are available as sounding boards for future guidance.

Positioning for Long-Term Growth

With this accreditation, SCEDC reinforces its strategic role in advancing Steuben County’s economic future. The AEDO process has refined operations, enhanced credibility, and expanded resources, all to better serve the businesses, residents, and partners who rely on the organization every day.

Learn What AEDO Status Means for Your Business

Business leaders, developers, and community stakeholders are encouraged to contact SCEDC to discuss how this new accreditation aligns with current and future opportunities in Steuben County.

Contact SCEDC to start the conversation.