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Industry Leaders Awards

  • OverviewOverview
  • Why should I apply?Why should I apply?
  • How do I participate?How do I participate?
  • What do I win?What do I win?
  • QuestionsQuestions

The Industry Leaders Awards program features nine distinct categories, highlighting individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their communities and advanced the field of economic development through their exceptional careers. Winners are recognized in-person at the 2026 Leadership Summit and via IEDC's communications channels. 

Any individual—new to the field or seasoned professional; serving in a community, institution, or government; U.S.-based or international—is eligible and encouraged to participate in this esteemed program. 

Applications may be submitted either by the nominee themselves or by a third party. 

This program is an opportunity to:

  • Gain formal acknowledgment for your achievements
  • Establish yourself as a thought leader and expert in the field
  • Enhance your resume and open doors to new opportunities
  • Cement your contributions and inspire others
  • Assess your work against industry standards

Please review all information listed below on the program's timeline, entry fees, and overall processes to learn how you can participate in this year's program. IEDC is excited to see and honor your great work!

If selected as an award winner, you will receive:

  • Complimentary registration to the 2026 Leadership Summit, with access to premier sessions and networking opportunities
  • Industry recognition at an exclusive reception during the 2026 Leadership Summit
  • Enhanced personal brand visibility and community exposure through IEDC's communication channels
  • A media kit featuring digital assets and a third-party endorsement from IEDC for versatile use

Should you have any questions about the Industry Leaders Awards program, please email Allison Mahnke, [email protected] or call (202) 223-7800.

Timeline

Now - January 18 Submit your application via the new portal
January 20-28 Judging
February 2 Winner and non-winner notifications sent
February 9 Winners receive media kit
February 18 IEDC announces winners to the general public
February 19 Winners share achievements with their networks
March 1-3 IEDC honors winners at the 2026 Leadership Summit

 

Entry Fees

To determine the non-refundable fee you will remit per entry, please identify your application submission date along with your member type.

 Early Bird (Ends January 7)          Standard (Ends January 18)
 Member Type Entry Fee        Member Type Entry Fee
 IEDC Member  $75.00        IEDC Member  $125.00
 Non-Member  $100.00        Non-Member  $150.00

 

Processes

 Application
 (Now - January 18)		     Judging
 (January 20-28)
  • Determine the Awards Category "Description" and "Eligibility" that best aligns with your experience in the field
  • Review the Awards Category "Application" to compile the proper information and digital supporting documentation
  • Log in to the new submission portal to fill in the official application form and pay your non-refundable entry fee via credit card
  
  • Conducted through the submission portal
  • Requires judges appointed by IEDC's Board Chair to review and score all program applications
    • Scoring follows a rubric aligned with Parts II and III of the official application form
  • Average scores are calculated to determine the winners
View All Awards Categories Access Submission Portal
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