Pros
NDC is a decent place to learn the basics of economic development (ED). They claim to be the "oldest nationwide ED non-profit" incepted in 1969 and the dated, archaic ways they work and think show it. You will work hard (not so much work smart). Work travel is good when it's balanced and the clients are nice people that are passionate about the work they do. You are given a travel budget, but beware of saying yes to meeting requests that might get you over-budget (you will be publicly called out). Insurance benefits are great, especially if you have a family (your whole family gets it!)
Kontras
Drama, drama, drama! Much of the staff that has been here so long barely have a modicum of respect for their peers. Some directors like to make themselves look good by saying condescending comments about others. It can be quite toxic. Once you've been here awhile, you realize it's like a dysfunctional family. My division's meetings were very unstructured and directionless. And there are a lot of meetings so you're better off focusing on what's in your control and not getting sucked in. I agree with the other reviewer that NDC is a misogynistic environment, and only a few of the men will admit it. One male superior told me my experience would be different "if I had a p*nis." Also, I question the organizations "community impacts" compared to others in the field. If you want to really innovate community impacts (much like the founders did in 1969), then try another org. NDC doesn't like to step outside it's narrow box and, therefore, doesn't advance our field or communities. Since working at NDC, I have collaborated in-depth with other ED non-profits. It was such a breath of fresh air to experience how nice it was working with smart, professional people that treated you with respect and focused on delivering a great work product that made an impact. I'm not saying everyone at NDC is a jerk, but you'll definitely have to interact with them, more in some cases than others. Sharpen those office politics skills.