Code of Ethics

The Kentucky Association for Economic Development is the Commonwealth’s premier professional development provider, a meaningful partner in Kentucky’s economic development, an advocate for ethics in the profession, and the voice of practitioners for state and federal governmental affairs.

KAED has adopted the International Economic Development Council Code of Ethics “to ensure a high ethical standard for those involved in economic development.” KAED members are required to review the Code upon confirming and renewing membership with the Kentucky Association for Economic Development.

Kentucky Economic Developers Shall:

1. Carry out their responsibilities in a manner to bring respect to the profession, the economic developer and the economic developer’s constituencies.
2. Practice with integrity, honesty, and adherence to the trust placed in them both in fact and in appearance.
3. Hold themselves free of any interest, influence, or relationship in respect to any professional activity when dealing with clients which could impair professional judgement or objectivity or which in the reasonable view of the observer, has that effect.
4. Be mindful that they are representatives of the community and shall represent the overall community interest.
5. Keep the community, elected officials, boards and other stakeholders informed about the progress and efforts of the area’s economic development program.
6. Maintain in confidence the affairs of any client, colleague or organization and shall not disclose confidential information obtained in the course of professional activities.
7. Openly share information with the governing body according to protocols established by that body. Such protocols shall be disclosed to clients and the public.
8. Cooperate with peers to the betterment of economic development technique, ability, and practice, and to strive to perfect themselves in their professional abilities through training and educational opportunities.
9. Assure that all economic development activities are conducted with equality of opportunity for all segments of the community without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, marital status, or socioeconomic status.
10. Refrain from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature.
11. Not exploit the misfortune of federally declared disaster-impacted regions. This includes actively recruiting businesses from an affected community.
12. Abide by the principles established in this code and comply with the rules of professional conduct as promulgated by IEDC.