​BRAMPTON, ON (August 12, 2026) – The City of Brampton's Economic Development Office has earned a second consecutive accreditation from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO), reaffirming Brampton's position among the world's leading economic development organizations.

Brampton is one of only six AEDOs in Canada and one of just 98 organizations worldwide to hold the designation. Originally accredited in 2022, the Brampton Economic Development Office successfully maintained its accreditation following a comprehensive year-long review. The reaccreditation is valid through 2029.​

The internationally recognized designation reflects the City's continued commitment to attracting investment, supporting business growth and creating opportunities for businesses and residents. It also demonstrates that Brampton meets the highest international standards in economic development leadership, strategy and service delivery, ensuring businesses have access to trusted, high-quality economic development support. For businesses looking to invest, expand and grow in Brampton, the City's IEDC accreditation reinforces confidence in Brampton as a premier destination for business investment.

Strengthening Brampton's competitive advantage

As part of the accreditation, Brampton achieved full compliance across all six critical performance areas evaluated by IEDC: leadership, strategic direction, community support, resources, technology and adaptability.

The assessment also recognized several strengths that continue to distinguish Brampton's Economic Development Office, including:

• A highly skilled team: Reviewers recognized the depth of expertise across the Economic Development Office, along with its commitment to professional development, succession planning and empowering emerging leaders.
• Strong partnerships: The assessment highlighted Brampton's collaborative approach to economic development, recognizing strong partnerships with Council, City departments, post-secondary institutions, innovation partners and the broader business community.​
• Responsive leadership: Brampton's ability to respond to evolving economic challenges was identified as a key strength, with reviewers highlighting the success of the City's Tariff Action Plan, which brought together industry and government partners to support local manufacturers and helped secure additional federal resources for businesses.
  

Together, these strengths reinforce Brampton's competitive advantage and demonstrate the City's commitment to continuous improvement, helping attract investment, create jobs and build a resilient local economy.

About Accredited Economic Development Organization accreditation program

The AEDO program is a comprehensive peer review process administered by the IEDC, the world's largest membership association serving economic and community development professionals. With more than 5,000 members around the world, IEDC provides leadership, professional development, information and advocacy for the economic development profession.

Brampton's reaccreditation followed a rigorous, year-long, two-phase process. The first phase included a comprehensive review of the Economic Development Office's work over the past three years. The second involved a site visit with City leadership, Council members, staff and community partners to validate the information submitted through the application.​

Organizations must successfully complete the reaccreditation process every three years to maintain their AEDO designation. For more information on the AEDO program, visit the IEDC’s website​. ​

Quotes

“Brampton continues to earn international recognition as one of the world's leading destinations for business investment, innovation and economic opportunity. This reaccreditation reinforces our reputation as a city that delivers results for businesses while creating jobs and opportunities for residents. As one of only six Accredited Economic Development Organizations in Canada and among just 98 worldwide, this achievement reflects Brampton's commitment to building a strong, competitive and resilient economy.” - Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

“Maintaining this internationally recognized designation reflects the expertise, leadership and dedication of the Brampton Economic Development Office and the strong collaboration across the organization and with businesses in our community. Congratulations to the economic development team for this significant achievement.” - Marlon Kallideen, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Brampton

“This recognition demonstrates that Brampton's approach to economic development is delivering results. Through strong partnerships, strategic planning and a focus on supporting businesses of all sizes, we continue to strengthen Brampton's competitiveness and create opportunities that benefit our entire community.” - Gurpartap Singh Toor, Regional Councillor, Wards 9 and 10; Chair, Economic Development Committee, City of Brampton

“This reaccreditation sends a strong message to businesses and investors that Brampton has the expertise, partnerships and services in place to support their success. By maintaining internationally recognized standards in economic development, we are strengthening confidence in Brampton as a place where businesses can invest, grow and create jobs.” - Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 and 5; Vice-Chair, Economic Development Committee, City of Brampton

“Maintaining our AEDO designation is an important milestone because it validates the work we do every day to support businesses, attract investment and foster innovation. We are proud to once again be recognized among the world's leading economic development organizations and remain committed to delivering exceptional service to businesses choosing Brampton." - Denise McClure, Director, Economic Development and International Relations, City of Brampton​