Industry Leaders Awards

Overview
Why should I apply?
How do I participate?
What do I win?
Questions

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 2027 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 2027 Leadership Summit, with access to premier sessions and networking opportunities
Industry recognition at an exclusive reception during the 2027 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 Alyssa Dole, [email protected] or call (202) 223-7800.

Timeline

Now - October 2	Submit your application via the new portal
October 7-23	Judging
November 16	Winner and non-winner notifications sent
November 16	Winners receive media kit
December 2	IEDC announces winners to the general public
December 3	Winners share achievements with their networks
February 7-9	IEDC honors winners at the 2027 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 September 18)		Standard (Ends October 2)
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 - October 2)		Judging (October 7-23)
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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