In the context of CANDO and its membership, EDO most often refers to the individual who is responsible for economic development initiatives in an Aboriginal community. This is because many Aboriginal communities employ an 'EDO', even if the actual job description or title may vary greatly from community to community.
We really do believe that EDOs are unsung heroes of Aboriginal communities and we're proud to be associated with them.
They are often involved in the broader realm of community development, and must have a vision of economic development that is modeled around community values. This might include negotiating deals to establish or diversify economic opportunities; setting up development corporations or other structures to manage the process; or facilitating the development of appropriate partnerships.
The work ranges from being involved in very complex economic ventures to coordinating short-term community job creation projects; promoting local businesses at trade shows, to seeking financial support for ideas and plans no matter how small or large.
The actual tasks may change over time, but what remains constant is that the job is very important-and a great deal of people expect a lot from the person in it.
An EDO is essentially responsible for improving the economic situation of the community, finding ways of creating jobs that will benefit a wide range of skills and talents, helping viable businesses get started, and creating an environment in which the local economy will flourish.
It seems like a tall order, but one that hundreds of EDOs across Canada fill every day, and one that we can help you to achieve.
Remember: the acronym 'EDO' can apply to anyone who works in the field of Aboriginal economic development.