The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is excited to unveil the winners of its 2026 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.

View all award winners in the online searchable gallery here.

"This year's winners embody the spirit of innovation and excellence in economic development," said IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle. "Their outstanding accomplishments have not only enhanced their own communities but also serve as shining examples of impactful and sustainable economic development worldwide.”

The Excellence in Economic Development Awards program has 26 unique categories that highlight impactful programs, projects and people in the economic development field. The creativity, dedication, and leadership of the 2026 award winners is supporting communities now and will benefit generations to come.

IEDC will celebrate the 2026 Excellence Awards winners at the upcoming Annual Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana, October 25–28.

This year's awards take on special meaning, as IEDC celebrates its 100th anniversary. In recognizing excellence in economic development, IEDC and its partners are celebrating successes and shining a spotlight on programs that inspire and prepare the field for the next century of economic development.  

About the International Economic Development Council (IEDC): Based in Washington, D.C., IEDC is the world’s largest association for economic developers. Originating a century ago, IEDC is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization that represents the entire economic development profession. Members include practitioners in economic development through local, state, provincial, and federal governments, non-profits, public-private partnerships, entrepreneurial support organizations, chambers of commerce, utilities, universities, and a variety of other organizations.  

IEDC is the leading voice in driving the future of the field. IEDC provides professional development through courses and certifications, networking, conferences, research, policy advocacy, partnerships, and other valuable offerings to economic development professionals across the globe. For more information, please visit www.IEDC.org.