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Mentorship Program

Program Overview

The AAED Mentorship Program functions under the Emerging Leaders Committee to pair seasoned economic developers with aspiring professionals in the industry. The mentor/mentee appointment is a program in which the pair strengthens and informs each other on Economic Development and professional growth. The program runs July to June each year.

 

MENTOR/MENTEE RULES AND AGREEMENT

Purpose

The AAED Mentorship Program pairs new and aspiring economic development professionals with experienced practitioners to serve as a resource as they begin their careers.

Mentee Requirements/Expectations

  • Less than 5 years of experience in economic development and/or 35 years of age or under
  • Current AAED member, with the requirement to renew if membership expires within the program window
  • Commitment of one year (approx. July 1 – June 30)
  • Will meet at least once per month with mentor (in-person or virtual)
  • Will complete all required documentation and submit to AAED by established deadlines
  • Regular attendance at AAED events 
  • Participation in at least one AAED committee or affinity group 
  • Contribution to AAED newsletter 
  • Attendance at AAED Academy courses
  • It is expected that activities related to the mentorship program may occur during normal working hours. Mentors should ensure that their participation in this program and its associated activities is supported by their organization

Mentor Requirements/Expectations

  • Current AAED member, with the requirement to renew if membership expires within the program window
  • Commitment of one year (approx. July 1 – June 30)
  • Will meet at least once per month with mentee (in-person or virtual)
  • Will complete all required documentation and submit to AAED by established deadlines
  • Within reason, availability outside of monthly meetings (boundaries to be discussed with mentee)
  • Maintenance of AZED Pro certification
  • It is expected that activities related to the mentorship program may occur during normal working hours. Mentors should ensure that their participation in this program and its associated activities is supported by their organization

Mentor/Mentee Benefits

  • Personal and professional development between like-minded Economic Development professionals
  • For the Mentee: complimentary attendance at up to two (2) AAED AZED Pro Academy Courses, to be completed over the course of the Mentorship Program for credit toward the AZED Pro certification or recertification
  • For the Mentor: 3 points toward AAED AZED Pro certification or recertification
  • Recognition at the 2026 Spring Conference for program completion

HOW TO APPLY

The 2025-2026 Mentorship Program applications are now open! Please fill out the appropriate application form below and email the completed application to info@aaed.com.

AAED MENTEE APPLICATION

 

AAED MENTOR APPLICATION

 

Applications will close May 30, 2025.

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Mentorship Program

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