Name: Darryl Washington

Position: Director of District Development

Organization: Urban Impact, Inc.

Years In Economic Development: 20+ years

Years As A Member of IEDC: 8 years

What is a podcast or book you recommend?

Develop This Podcast for Community and Economic Development Professionals.

What was the first IEDC event you attended?

IEDC Annual Conference in Las Vegas.

Why did you choose to join IEDC?

Networking and professional development opportunities.

How has being a member of IEDC benefitted you and/or your organization?

I’ve established a solid network with professional economic developers around the country. Through attending IEDC training courses I’ve been able to keep up with current industry trends and increase my knowledge of the core principles of economic development. 

What IEDC event do you look forward to attending each year? Why?

Annual Conference and Leadership Summit.

Is there a project your organization is currently working on that you are excited about?

My agency just launched a loan fund developed to provide access to capital for minority and women owned small businesses. This product will serve as a valuable tool for our business retention/expansion and business recruitment efforts.

How has your organization adapted to support your community and/or clients during the pandemic?

Our organization has utilized virtual tools to amplify our district’s outreach efforts and to expand our technical assistance programs for small businesses and property owners. We’ve also established partnerships and used grants to provide our local businesses with free Covid related protection equipment, signage and training.

What is something you and/or your organization have accomplished this year that you are most proud of?

Last year we partnered with the City of Birmingham to launch a new Facade Improvement Grant Program. The program provides an 80% grant to assist property owners with improving the front facade and signage of eligible properties. This new program has served as a catalyst and invaluable incentive for expediting our commercial district revitalization and preservation efforts.

What are some ways you hope you and your organization can continue to support your community and/or clients?

We hope to serve as a valuable resource for the diverse community stakeholders we serve by; filling client resource gaps with our programs and partnerships, leading efforts to creatively promote the district (stakeholders), and advocating for legislation and incentives that benefit the businesses, organizations  and property owners in the District.

Coffee or Tea?

Tea.

Audio Book or Podcast?

Both.

Favorite Movie?

Wall Street.

Favorite Book?

The Autobiography of Malcolm X.

Night out or Night In?

Night out.

Dress-shoes or Sneakers?

Dress-shoes

What is something you like to do in your free time?

Hiking and Mountain Biking.