OEV Receives Four International Economic Development Awards

October 15, 2021

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., October 14, 2021 – The Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) has been recognized with four Excellence in Economic Development Awards by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for the following initiatives:

• Data Driver,aproject in the category of Print Brochure.
• Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprise (MWSBE) Division,aproject in the category of Economic Equity and Inclusion.
• Love Your Local,aproject in the category of Digital Media.
• OEV Website,aproject in the category of General Purpose Website.

“This great honor from our industry peers from around the world is truly gratifying and worthwhile,” said OEV Director Cristina Paredes. “I would like to thank our City of Tallahassee and Leon County leadership, the Economic Vitality Leadership Council, the MWSBE Citizen Advisory Committee, and our key partners. As our team continues to further enhance our local economy, these awards exemplify their dedication and commitment to the work that they do.”

IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards recognized the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders. The 25 award categories honored organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities. Awards are judged by a diverse panel of economic and community developers, following a nomination process held earlier this year. IEDC received over 500 submissions from 4 countries.

“The winners of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development awards represent the best of economic development and exemplify the leadership that our profession strives for every day,” said 2021 IEDC Board Chair and Invest Buffalo Niagara, President, and CEO Tom Kucharski. “We’re honored to recognize the more than 100 communities whose marketing submissions, projects, and partnerships have improved regional quality of life.”

The winners of the Excellence in Economic Development Awards were recognized at IEDC’s Annual Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. This year, OEV Director Cristina Paredes and Deputy Director Drew Dietrich were there to accept the awards for OEV.

About the Tallahassee – Leon County Office of Economic Vitality (OEV)

When you are looking to grow, relocate or start your business in Florida’s capital city, the Office of Economic Vitality is your front door to business resources. OEV can guide you in a variety of ways: site location, talent solutions, financial assistance, for instance. To foster a strong business climate, the Office of Economic Vitality provides data, resources and support to site selectors, state partners, and business leaders in the community alike. We serve as the connector between state economic development, workforce development and business.