The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) recently honored the recipients of the 2025 Industry Leaders Awards, recognizing outstanding individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact in the field of economic development. IEDC celebrated the achievements of these leaders and thanked them for their commitment to advancing economic development and improving the quality of life in the communities they serve. The honorees were recognized during the 2026 Leadership Summit on March 2, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

“The Industry Leaders program was created to highlight those who go above and beyond for their communities,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “This year’s recipients have demonstrated extraordinary vision, bold leadership, and a deep commitment to economic development. Their actions are driving transformative change, and we are thrilled to acknowledge their efforts.”

These professionals have led groundbreaking initiatives, strengthened economic resilience, and made a lasting difference in the communities they serve. Their work continues to inspire new approaches and set the stage for future advancements.

Presented annually, the Industry Leaders Awards celebrate professionals and public servants who shape stronger communities, advance economic opportunity, and strengthen the economic development profession. Honorees represent a diverse range of sectors—including local, state, and federal leadership—and exemplify the dedication and vision required to drive meaningful economic growth.

IEDC congratulates the following recipients of the 2025 Industry Leaders Awards: 

• Chairwoman’s Award, Barry Broome | Greater Sacramento Economic Council (CA)
• Community Partner Award, Christine Bryant | Vision Galveston (TX)
• Congressional Leadership Award, Senator Kevin Cramer | U.S. Congress (ND)
• Congressional Leadership Award, Senator Mark Kelly | U.S. Congress (AZ)
• Congressional Leadership Award, Representative Haley Stevens | U.S. Congress (MI) 
• Economic Developer of the Year Award, Jennifer Storm | Buda Economic Development Corporation (TX)
• Federal Leadership Award, Brittany Sickler | U.S. Small Business Administration (DC)
• Future Leader Award, Kreg Haney | Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (OK)
• Future Leader Award, Justin Heather | Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP (TX)
• Future Leader Award, Amy Rencher | Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MI)
• Honorary Life Member, David Leezer | City of Hazelwood (MO) | Click here to read David Leezer's remarks
• Lifetime Achievement Award, Jay Garner | Garner Economics, LLC (GA) | Click here to read Jay Garner's remarks
• Lifetime Achievement Award, Tracye McDaniel | TIP Strategies (TX) | Click here to read Tracye McDaniel's remarks
• Public Sector Champion Award, Sean Scully | City of Lincoln (CA)

These awardees were recognized for their significant contributions to economic development through leadership, policy advancement, community partnership, and innovative programming that support business growth and community prosperity. Their work continues to strengthen the profession and create lasting economic opportunities in communities across the country.

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