Auburn University

Auburn University’s “EDA University Center” (AEUC), a partnership of the Government & Economic Development Institute and the Harbert College of Business, will support EDA’s core mission of promoting innovation and competitiveness while also preparing Alabama regions for economic growth. The AEUC will help fill important economic ecosystems gaps which have been identified through data and publications from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Kauffman Foundation, two statewide plans, and 11 regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies. These gaps include needing to identify and create more community-based entrepreneurs among disadvantaged populations and in underserved areas, as well as assisting existing small businesses in becoming more innovative and resilient. To position Alabama regions for success and resiliency, the AEUC will serve as the state’s economic development training leader by offering its International Economic Development Council accredited, “Intensive Economic Development Training Course” and related training programs to Alabama community leaders.