The newest buzzword in economic development is “data centers.” Economic development leaders are touting new data center projects almost daily, and it was one of the most talked-about items at IEDC’s Annual Conference in Detroit. Companies are investing billions of dollars to build and develop new data centers to support artificial intelligence (AI) and other large data needs—at levels far beyond anything we have seen before.

Detroit was electric this September as thousands of economic developers from across the globe gathered for IEDC's Annual Conference. Over four incredible days, professionals and thought leaders immersed themselves in plenaries, breakout sessions, and tours that showcased how a city and region have catalyzed growth through collaboration and become a blueprint for resilience and reinvention.  

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is excited to unveil the winners of its 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Awards. These projects and organizations were selected by an esteemed cohort of judges and demonstrate the ingenuity and commitment necessary to foster transformative economic growth and prosperity in communities across the globe.