Economic Development Academy
Course

Economic Development Academy

Jun 4, 2026 - Jun 5, 2026

$610 Enroll

Full course description

Seminar Overview

Co-hosted by UMass Lowell Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Department, and MassEcon, and supported by the Massachusetts Municipal Association, this two-day, in-person, non-credit program will enhance the skills and impact of Economic Development leaders across Massachusetts. Participants will build a strong foundation in economic development practice, with a focus on understanding local economic ecosystems, identifying opportunities, and applying strategies to support sustainable and community-centered growth. 

This highly interactive workshop features guest speakers, practitioner panels, and hands-on activities that allow participants to apply concepts in real time. Through small-group work, case-based exercises, and guided discussions, participants will explore funding and financing tools, assess project feasibility, and examine proven approaches such as downtown revitalization, workforce development, and partnership-driven initiatives. The academy also creates space for dialogue, peer learning, and networking across municipalities and sectors.
 
We'll meet from Thursday, June 4, 2026, to Friday, June 5, 2026 (2 days), from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm at MassEcon 260 Arsenal Place Watertown, MA office. Light breakfast and lunch will be provided. 
 
By the end of the two days, participants will develop a draft economic development concept tailored to their community and leave with actionable next steps, practical tools, and new connections to support their work.

Audience

This course is ideal for Economic Development Professionals, Town Managers, Chamber of Commerce Leaders, Community Volunteers, and Partners. 

Recognition for Completion

UML Credly Badge
Participants who complete the full two‑day seminar will receive a UML Credly digital badge, recognizing their training in the Economic Development Academy. This shareable credential can be displayed on LinkedIn, email signatures, and professional portfolios.

 

 

Marketing Partner

Massachusetts Municipal Association

Additional Notes

Cancellation Policy

Registrants who wish to cancel must write to Corporate_Education@uml.edu within the refund schedule noted below. 

Refund Schedule for Non-Credit Seminars

  • Three (3) business days before the first scheduled date: 100% refund (Minus any credit card processing fees incurred)
  • NO REFUNDS if cancellations are received less than three (3) business days before the first scheduled date

Registration Transfer Requests
In some circumstances, we may accept requests to transfer a registration to another person. Please email your request to Corporate_Education@uml.edu.

Email Notifications

Upon registering, you will receive an automated confirmation email from UMass Lowell Professional Training with an email address of notifications@instructure.com.

Please ensure that you can receive emails from this address, and please remember to check your junk and/or spam folders. 

Additional notifications and important information regarding this seminar may be sent from Corporate_Education@uml.edu and/or other University email addresses ending in @uml.edu.

Still Have Questions?
Please contact: Corporate_Education@uml.edu