LAKEWOOD – Rebecca Newton and Jeff Gumm with the City of Lakewood received certifications as Economic Development Finance Professionals (EDFP) from the National Development Council (NDC).
EDFP Certification is a professional credential given to individuals who successfully complete NDC’s intensive economic development finance training series. The training provides individuals working in the field of economic development with instruction in business credit analysis, real estate financing, loan packaging, deal structuring and negotiating, and the creation and implementation of development programs. Each of the four EDFP certification program courses is five days in length and concludes with an exam. Upon successful completion of all four courses, the candidate is awarded EDFP certification.
Newton is an economic development specialist with the City of Lakewood bringing nearly a decade of economic development experience. Hired in 2011, Newton’s primary focus has been on business retention and expansion. In addition, Newton assists with startup companies and works with businesses looking to expand or relocate to Lakewood. She provides access to procurement and technical assistance and connection to resources. Her background includes fifteen years in private for-profit advertising and marketing and eight years in private non-profit work.
Gumm as a grants program manager with the City of Lakewood is responsible for managing multiple federal grant programs focusing on economic development, community development and targeted low-income housing. Employed with the City of Lakewood since 2002, Gumm oversees the development of multiple housing and community development projects. Recently, he took on the City’s Section 108 economic development loan program designed to create and expand job opportunities for low-income individuals through business retention and expansion.