The Midwest CDI is part of a national network of training sites. The first CDI was launched in Arkansas in 1987. There are currently three other sites across the U.S.: Central CDI, Northwest CDI, and Texas CDI. The Community Development Council, a national non-profit organization, oversees the CDIs and also administers the Professional Community and Economic Developer certification. For more information about the CDC, visit their website. 

The core curriculum is the same at all CDI sites. It is possible for an individual to take Year One in one location, Year Two in another, and Year Three at a third site, and still be prepared for the PCED exam. Sometimes called “fast-tracking,” this allows an individual to complete the training and qualify for the PCED certification exam sooner.