Business Retention & Expansion

Global Economy places companies and communities at risk. Global companies hold minimal loyalty to communities, states or countries. Carrying out a Business Retention and Expansion Program is an essential element of any economic development strategy and is a key to future economic growth. This online course looks in detail at how to plan, implement and measure the performance of an effective Retention and Expansion program.

Course Costs and Fees:

IEDC Members: $635    

Non-IEDC Members: $695

• Registration fees are payable to the University of Oklahoma and are due prior to the start of the course.
• The $60 IEDC non-member fee may be credited toward the first year’s membership in IEDC (up to 12 months after the session’s completion.)
• You may register up to the start of the course.

Course Highlights:

• Organizing and managing the BR&E Program
• Information gathering and Analysis
• Workforce Development and BR&E
• Disaster Preparedness and Recovery in the BR&E program
• Assistance for Existing Business

This course meets the core BRE requirement for ED practitioners wishing to pursue the IEDC’s CEcD certification.

The 2024 edition of the Business Retention and Expansion Manual is required for this course. It can be purchased through OU EDI or the IEDC Bookstore.

Instructor Bio - Laith Wardi (pdf)

Register for this Course

Next offering: November 10, 2025 

If already admitted to OU EDI -  Login to OU EDI

If not yet admitted to OU EDI - Apply to OU EDI

Please email edi@ou.edu or call (405) 325-3136 if you have questions or issues.