October 3, 2024
The Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) is a new, collaborative initiative designed to address long standing economic disparities in distressed and historically underserved populations, communities and regions throughout the U.S. by connecting host organizations with fellows who have the talent and capacity needed to advance new ways of doing economic development that promote equitable economic resilience and transformative change.
The ERC program is led by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) in partnership with six leading national organizations from across the economic development landscape. Over a 30-month fellowship, 65 fellows are working in under-resourced communities alongside pioneering hosts, including economic development agencies, local organizations and government offices. Together, they are building a nationwide network of diverse, cross-sector talent with the skills and expertise to activate regional strategies and promote innovation. ERC aims to 1) build capacity in under-resourced communities to accelerate locally-led economic development and to drive more equitable economic outcomes and 2) cultivate next generation economic development leaders equipped to promote a new era of economic prosperity that includes everyone.
As the Training and Learning Partner for ERC, Root Change facilitates connection and exchange among national partners, hosts and fellows in urban, rural, and tribal areas. This highly collaborative approach seeks to elevate new practices and transform the field of economic development in the United States.
Root Change coordinates and facilitates regular training and learning events for both partner organizations and hosts, as well as providing them with tailored coaching support. We share our extensive knowledge and skills on the use of iterative action research methodologies. ERC fellows apply action research to collaboratively identify assets, test and generate solutions to local challenges, engage in participatory planning processes, and generate data for progress monitoring. Overall, we structure every engagement as a space for peer learning, where partners, fellows, and hosts come together to share their human experiences, technical expertise, and learn from one another.
Through the training and learning component of ERC, Root Change is leading the development of an equity-focused economic development curriculum that will be used for years to come by economic agencies and organizations across the United States.
