About Us | Arkansas Economic Developers & Chamber Executives

About Us

Arkansas Economic Developers & Chamber Executives (AEDCE)

Arkansas Economic Developers & Chamber Executives (AEDCE) is the statewide professional association representing economic developers and chamber executives in Arkansas. Previously organized as two separate entities, (Arkansas Economic Developers and Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Executives) the two associations merged in 2016 to create a stronger, more efficient, and unified alliance.  Membership is available to anyone with an interest in the economic and community development of Arkansas. 

AEDCE Mission Statement: To enhance the professional development of our membership and to advocate for community and economic development benefiting the citizens of Arkansas.

AEDCE Objective: To increase the effectiveness of economic developers and chamber professionals in Arkansas by encouraging cooperation, exchange of information, and promotion of professional skills.

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AEDCE Board of Directors

Welcome!

Welcome to the Arkansas Economic Developers & Chamber Executives (AEDCE) community! Our commitment to enhancing the economic landscape and the overall well-being of Arkansans remains unwavering. At AEDCE, we foster a dynamic space for education and professional development, dedicated to empowering our members and contributing to the prosperity of communities across the state.

As we embark on a new chapter in 2024, I am honored to serve as the AEDCE Board President. I invite you to actively engage in our shared mission by participating in the vibrant exchange of ideas, forging meaningful connections, and leveraging the valuable resources we offer. Together, let's propel the growth and vitality of our communities, ensuring that Arkansas continues to thrive.

I encourage you to attend our enriching events and take advantage of the diverse educational programs designed to equip you for success. For further inquiries and to deepen your involvement, don't hesitate to reach out to AEDCE Executive Director, Candice Lawrence, at candice@aedce.org.

Thank you for being an integral part of AEDCE's journey toward building a resilient and prosperous Arkansas. Your dedication and collaboration contribute significantly to the success of our communities. Here's to a year of continued growth and shared accomplishments!

Sincerely,

Gary Troutman, IOM

President & CEO| Hot Springs Metro Partnership/Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce

2024 Board President | Arkansas Economic Developers & Chamber Executives

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Governance

The governance of Arkansas Economic Developers and Chamber Executives is vested in a Board of Directors elected by the general membership and composed of:

  • Two Directors from each of the four Congressional Districts, duly elected by the General Membership.
  • The duly elected officers.
    • President
    • First Vice President
    • Second Vice President
    • Secretary/Treasurer
  • Two at-large directors appointed by the President.
  • Ex-Officio Members
    • Current Arkansas State Director for the Southern Economic Development Council.
    • Immediate Past President of the Arkansas Economic Developers & Chamber Executives.
    • Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.
    • President/CEO of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas.

Activities of Arkansas Economic Developers and Chamber Executives include:

  • Professional Development
  • Economic Development Training
  • Conferences
  • Networking Opportunities
  • Advocacy
  • Sharing of Economic Development and Chamber of Commerce News

Click here to download a copy of the AEDCE Bylaws