Washington, DC – Tulare County Economic Development Corporation was recognized by the International Economic Development Council as an Economic Development Organization of the Year for organizations serving a population between 200,000 and 500,000 people.  The EDC received the award along with the Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission and the New Orleans Business Alliance in this population category.  Montreal International and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council received the honor for population greater than 500,000.  Tulare County EDC is the only EDO to be recognized in California with this honor.

“To be recognized by our International professional association with this honor is a testimony to the Tulare County EDC’s long-term commitment to strategic planning and the success in achieving our goals year after year” stated Paul Saldana in receiving the award.  The honor was presented this week at an awards ceremony during the IEDC Annual Conference, which is currently underway.

In addition to being honored as an Economic Development Organization of the Year, the Tulare County EDC was also given an award for their Covid19 Biz Assist Website, which provided a countywide portal for local businesses from the start of the pandemic.  The EDC was the only California organization recognized for COVID-19 business assistance.

“The winners of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development awards represent the very best of economic development and exemplify the ingenuity, integrity, and leadership that our profession strives for each and every day,” said 2020 IEDC Board Chair and One Columbus CEO Kenny McDonald. “We’re honored to recognize the more than 100 communities whose marketing campaigns, projects and partnerships have measurably improved regional quality of life.”

IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards recognize the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders. 35 award categories honor 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 from around the world, following a nomination process held earlier this year. IEDC received over 500 submissions from 4 countries.

About the International Economic Development Council

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers. With more than 5,000 members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities, by creating, retaining and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth and provide a stable tax base. When we succeed, our members create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions.

About the Tulare County Economic Development Corporation

Since 1983, the EDC has served as the marketing and business recruitment organization for the communities of Tulare County. Locating more than 100 companies and creating over 13,000 new jobs. This activity has resulted in the investment of $350 million dollars in our local economy. The Economic Development Corporation is the regional leader of economic development by attracting, supporting and retaining business and industry for the communities of Tulare County.  The EDC is an internationally recognized Accredited Economic Development Organization.