The Kansas Department of Commerce has been honored with the 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) in the Special Event category. The recognition highlights the agency’s extensive Community Impact Tour, a five-day initiative spanning over 2,100 miles and reaching 26 communities across the state. Conducted during National Community Development Week, the tour aimed to spotlight transformative local projects, engage stakeholders, and celebrate progress in both rural towns and urban centers. n nLieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland emphasized the tour’s role in fostering direct engagement with communities. “This wasn’t just a series of site visits—it was an opportunity to connect with the individuals and organizations driving positive change,” Toland said. He noted that strategic state investments are fueling new economic pathways statewide, and expressed appreciation for the national recognition. n nThe Quality Places Division, responsible for organizing the tour, will receive the award at the IEDC’s 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit, scheduled for September 14–17. Nathan Ohle, President and CEO of IEDC, praised Kansas for setting a benchmark in economic development innovation. “The Community Impact Tour exemplifies how proactive outreach can strengthen regional revitalization and elevate the standards of the profession,” Ohle stated. n nEach year, IEDC acknowledges programs and institutions that demonstrate exceptional performance in advancing economic growth and community renewal. Honorees are recognized for leading initiatives that not only stimulate local economies but also enhance overall quality of life through strategic planning and collaboration. n
— news from Kansas Department of Commerce (.gov)
— News Original —
Commerce Receives IEDC Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award
Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the Department of Commerce has been awarded the 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Commerce received the award for the agency’s work in the Special Event category that impacts the entire state population. n nIEDC singled out the five-day, 26-stop, 2,100+ mile Community Impact Tour Commerce’s Quality Places Division took to highlight transformative projects across the state, engage with local stakeholders, and celebrate community progress during National Community Development Week. n n“Our Community Impact Tour was more than a road trip. It was a chance to connect face-to-face with the people and organizations making positive change happen throughout Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The state’s strategic investments are helping spark new economic opportunities in small towns and larger cities alike, and we are honored that IEDC recognized this important work.” n nThe Quality Places Division within the agency will be honored at the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit on September 14-17. n n“The Kansas Department of Commerce is leading the field of excellence in economic development with its Community Impact Tour initiative,” IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle said. “This award shines a spotlight on the state’s commitment to its communities and showcases the significant impact of economic development. And IEDC is honored to present this award to Commerce to celebrate both their leadership and innovation in the field.” n nEach year, IEDC honors an array of entities, initiatives and programs that are consistently demonstrating excellence in the realm of economic development. Those honorees lead transformational projects that revitalize communities and advance the practice of economic development.