Taney County Partnership Recognized Among Nation’s Top Economic Development Organizations

This is the logo for the Accredited Economic Development Organization - International Economic Development Council

14 Sep 2026


Press Releases, News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
For more information, contact:
Matt Adkins
madkins@taneycountypartnership.com
(417) 243-2126

Only 100 economic development organizations nationwide have received the AEDO accreditation

BRANSON, MO – The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) has recognized Taney County Partnership (TCP) as one of 100 economic development organizations accredited by IEDC as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO).

The AEDO program is a comprehensive peer-review process administered by the IEDC to assess economic development organizations against commonly held professional standards. The program consists of two phases: a documentation review and an on-site visit. Each phase evaluates the structure, organization, funding, programs, and staff of the candidate economic development organization.

“Taney County Partnership displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor,” said IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle.

The prestigious recognition comes as Taney County continues to advance economic growth by strengthening workforce development, growing business opportunities, and investing in quality of life in the region. Earning AEDO accreditation tells the community and prospects that Taney County Partnership has achieved a measure of excellence, assuring them their trust is well placed and their business is in good hands. 

With nearly 3,000 businesses in Taney County and over 50,000 workers, the county’s workforce is a strong foundation for supporting a broad range of businesses and industries. Key industries include healthcare, accommodation and food services, social assistance, and retail trade. But the region’s labor pool extends beyond the Taney County line, with another nearly 3,000 workers commuting to the area from outside the county or state

To strengthen the area's growing economic development, TCP provides businesses with resources and support to help them grow and succeed. TCP supports existing businesses with retention and expansion, connects employers with workforce development resources, and assists companies evaluating Taney County for relocation or investment. Services also include information on available sites and buildings, workforce data, target industries, incentives, and more. TCP assists existing and potential employers in the region by connecting them with community partners, economic development information, and workforce resources. 

Quality of life is another asset supporting Taney County’s economic growth, with amenities that will help attract and retain employees for employers. The area offers a mix of city amenities and small-town communities, with access to the Ozark Mountains, Table Rock Lake, Branson attractions, and more outdoor recreation and entertainment options. 

The AEDO accreditation is a significant achievement for TCP, demonstrating the organization's commitment to economic development. TCP must maintain AEDO status every three years by submitting documentation and/or hosting on-site visits by the AEDO subcommittee.

To learn more about Taney County Partnership, visit TaneyCountyPartnership.com.

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TANEY COUNTY PARTNERSHIP is a public-private economic development organization, composed of Taney County, the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, the county’s incorporated cities and villages, and a dedicated group of business sector stakeholders. It promotes business growth, talent development, and regional collaboration throughout Taney County, Missouri. The organization is committed to building a stronger, more prosperous future for all who live, work, and invest in the region through proactive marketing, strategic planning, and partnerships.

The International Economic Development Council is the largest membership association serving economic and community development professionals worldwide. With over 5,000 members nationwide and abroad, IEDC offers the economic development profession one source for information and professional development, one voice for the profession and one force for advocacy. For more information on IEDC or the AEDO program, call Dana Crater at (910) 821.0245; fax (202) 223.4745; write to IEDC at 1275 K Street NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20005; email aedo@iedc.org; or visit IEDC’s website at www.iedconline.org