The Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County has announced Erin Silk, vice-president of business development services, has become Sarasota County’s first certified economic developer (CEcD). Conferred by the International Economic Development Council, CEcD status is recognized globally, and it is the only certification program for economic developers in the United States. It is considered the most prestigious designation in the economic development profession.

Silk’s CEcD designation denotes a mastery of skills in economic development, professional attainment and a commitment to personal and professional growth, which will support the EDC’s mission to diversify and strengthen the Sarasota County economy. There are only around 1,100 certified economic developers in the world and 20 in the state of Florida, including Silk. In order to obtain her certification, Silk completed six courses through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) in a variety of disciplines including finance, marketing and attraction, entrepreneurial and small business development, and workforce development strategies.