DT #607 Crystal Ball 2026: Nathan Ohle on the Future of Economic Development, Leadership & IEDC at 100
Develop This: Economic and Community Development · Dennis Fraise
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Show Notes
As part of the Develop This! Crystal Ball Series kicking off 2026, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Nathan Ohle, President & CEO of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), for a wide-ranging conversation on where the profession is headed—and how leaders can prepare for what's next.
Nathan shares insights from his extensive travels and conversations with economic developers across the country, highlighting how the role of the practitioner is evolving. From deeper engagement with rural communities to increased cross-sector collaboration, economic development is becoming more complex—and more impactful—than ever.
The discussion also explores the significant transformation underway at IEDC since 2022, including a new membership model designed to lower barriers to participation, major investments in systems and infrastructure, and a renewed emphasis on listening to and elevating member voices. Nathan reflects on how feedback from practitioners has directly shaped these changes.
Looking ahead, the conversation turns to the role of technology and AI as accelerators for economic development work, the importance of training and mentorship for the next generation of leaders, and what the IEDC's 100th anniversary in 2026 represents for the organization and the profession as a whole.
This episode offers a forward-looking, practitioner-focused perspective on leadership, transformation, and collaboration—making it a must-listen for anyone shaping the future of economic and community development.
Key Takeaways
- Elevating the voices of economic development practitioners is essential for the profession's future
- The role of economic developers is expanding through deeper collaboration with public, private, and nonprofit partners
- IEDC's new membership model is reducing barriers and broadening engagement
- Member feedback has driven meaningful organizational transformation at IEDC
- AI is emerging as a powerful accelerator—not a replacement—for economic development work
- Mentorship and training are critical to developing the next generation of leaders
- Strategic investments in systems and infrastructure are improving member services
- IEDC's 100th anniversary in 2026 marks a pivotal milestone for reflection and future vision
- Collaboration and partnerships will define success in the next era of economic development