The AEDC was established in 1981 as a partnership between the City of Aurora and the Greater Aurora Chamber of Commerce (GACC) to be the lead economic development agency for the community.  To date over 400 businesses have been attracted and/or retained to the area, creating over 20,000 new jobs and generating an additional $750.00 million in capital investment.

Realizing the they could not just be satisfied with past success, the leaders of the AEDC began planning in 1998 to position Aurora for the next century.  The result of that effort is Seize the Future, a strategic five-year initiative to ensure the continued economic growth and development of Aurora.

AEDC Chairman, John Banbury, and Executive Director, Sherman Jenkins, along with Development Initiative Chairman, Ed Bonifas, have committed Seize the Future to take a proactive leadership role in economic development issues facing Aurora.  Full implementation of this program will require $5 million, payable over a five-year pledge period.  The private sector must be willing to set a strong pattern for underwriting Aurora's economic future.  Local business can be expected to base their support on each firm's individual stake in Aurora, the projected economic benefits to be derived, and the return on investment they receive.

The Need to Continue Economic Growth

Aurora sits in an enviable position with regard to economic development as it heads into the new millennium.  Its strategic position combined with a strong economy gives Aurora nearly unlimited growth potential.  To take full advantage of these opportunities and shape future economic growth in a positive and effective manner Aurora must:

For information on the Seize the Future Foundation and their purpose, click here.