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NM-EDE Certification

Build Your Expertise. Grow Your Network. Advance New Mexico.

Economic development professionals are essential to the success of New Mexico’s communities and industries. They are strategists, connectors, and problem-solvers, who drive the growth of businesses, communities, and regions across the state.

That is why New Mexico IDEA is proud to launch the New Mexico Economic Development Expert (NM-EDE) certification, the only state-specific certification for economic development professionals in New Mexico. This program builds on your expertise, strengthens your credibility, and connects you to a powerful network of peers.

What is the NM-EDE Certification?

The NM-EDE is a professional certification that validates your knowledge and readiness to lead economic development work across New Mexico’s diverse communities.

Whether you’re just starting out, transitioning from a related field, or looking to grow in your role, the NM-EDE helps you master the language and tools of economic development; understand the policies, programs  & players unique to New Mexico; and gain recognition for your commitment and capability.

The program and certification is open to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of economic development and its specific application in the State of New Mexico. Attendance can be on an individual basis, but to obtain the certification it requires completion of four total courses (three core courses and one elective) within 24 months of the first course attendance.

Do you need to be a NMIDEA member?

No, it is not required. However, members of New Mexico IDEA will pay a lower rate per course. In addition, being an New Mexico IDEA member offers access to resources, benefits, and networking on a year-round basis providing great value to those working directly or indirectly in the economic development arena in NM.

Is the NM-EDE Certification right for me?

If you have less than five years of work in a dedicated economic development role, this certification is intended to fast track your depth of expertise. The courses in this certification offer a comprehensive overview of key areas like business retention, attraction, and workforce development, providing a solid foundation in the field.

The program’s networking opportunities, connecting you with peers and established leaders, are also a significant advantage. This certification tells employers in New Mexico hiring for economic development roles that you have the needed training to hit the ground running.

The Path to Certification

Within two years, complete three of the core courses and one elective, for a total of four courses.

Two of the total four courses must be attended in-person to qualify for certification.

NM-EDE graduates are announced at the Governor’s Statewide Conference on Economic Development each year, generally in September.

Course Fees:

  • $150 for members of NM IDEA
  • $250 for non-members

Bulk discounts are available if you attend two courses in one day in conjunction with the Governor’s Statewide Conference on Economic Development.

Are you interested in certification?

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career or bring more credibility to the work you are already doing than the New Mexico Economic Development Expert (NM-EDE) certification is for you.

Whether you are new to the field, transitioning from a related sector, or looking to deepen your impact, this certification gives you practical, state-specific knowledge you can apply immediately and access to a growing network of peers and mentors in economic development.

Start your journey toward becoming an NM-EDE by emailing Jason at nmidea@newmexicoidea.org

Explore the Curriculum

Each NM-EDE candidate completes a series of expert-led courses designed to build a strong foundation in economic development practice with the flexibility to tailor your learning through electives.

All courses are at least three hours long and delivered by experienced volunteer instructors from the economic development community.

Core Courses (3 Required for Certification)
  • Economic Development In NM
  • Workforce Development
  • Marketing & Business Development
  • Business Retention & Expansion
  • Entrepreneurship & Small Business Development
Elective Courses (Subject to Change)
  • Incentives & Economic Impact Analysis
  • Research & Statistics in Economic Development
  • Policy & Advocacy

NM-EDE Recertification

Recertification is required every two years, and is done by obtaining 8 points over a two-year cycle. Points are awarded on activities that give back to the profession.

Higher points are given for major events, such as conferences and classes, while other points are awarded for activities such as speaking at an IEDC event, publishing a news article, grading tests, participation in webinars, and other activities. You must have points from every category.

The point system is outlined below.

Education (3 points each; max of 6 points)

  • Panelist on seminar/webinar
  • Presenter at Conference
  • Serve on NMIDEA Board
  • Recruit new certification candidates

Giving Back (2 points each; max of 6 points)

  • Attend a local conference related to economic development
  • Securing sponsorship for NM IDEA
  • Writing a white paper or news article for NMIDEA

Participation (1 points each; max of 3 points)

  • Attend a webinar or Academy course

NM-EDE’s need to keep track of their own points and submit documentation, and pay the $50.00 recertification invoice.

Brief Course Descriptions

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