Pasco EDC Honored with 2026 Excellence in Economic Development Awards from the International Economic Development Council

October 27, 2026

The organization was recognized with three awards in the gold, silver, and bronze categories.

PASCO COUNTY, FLORIDA (October 27, 2026): Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) received three 2026 Excellence in Economic Development Awards from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The awards were bestowed for the organization’s work in the Multimedia Promotion, Annual Report, and Innovation in Economic Development Week categories that impacted over 500,000 residents. Members of the Pasco EDC team were honored to accept the awards last night at the IEDC 2026 Annual Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana.

"Pasco EDC is leading the field of excellence in economic development with its programs. These awards shine a spotlight on Pasco EDC’s commitment to its community and showcase the significant impact of economic development,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “IEDC is honored to present a Gold, Silver, and Bronze award to Pasco EDC to celebrate their leadership and innovation in the field."

Each year, IEDC honors economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives, and programs that consistently demonstrate excellence in the field. The honorees lead transformational projects that revitalize communities and advance the practice of economic development. The following Pasco EDC projects were recognized this year:

The Multimedia Promotion Award in the gold category recognized the Ready Sites Program Videos. Additionally, out of 77 Gold winners, the Ready Sites videos were among just 15 nominated for Best in Show.
1. Pasco EDC revamped its Ready Sites marketing videos to strengthen business attraction and expansion efforts. The initiative included a new program overview video and six individual property videos featuring drone footage, 3D graphics, and animated conceptual renderings. Using years of prospect feedback, the videos highlight key site considerations, including transportation access, utilities, infrastructure, acreage, and development potential. The completed videos support business recruitment through the Ready Sites webpage, email marketing, trade shows, proposals, presentations, and social media.
The Annual Report Award in the silver category recognized the 2024-25 Annual Report.
1. The 2024–25 Pasco EDC Annual Report features a modern and engaging design to highlight key data, accomplishments, and events across the organization’s major program areas, including business development, workforce development, small business support, marketing, partnerships, and legislative successes. The report is published annually following the close of the fiscal year and informs the Board of Directors and investors about the organization’s progress and priorities. It also serves as a recruitment tool for prospective investors and an informational resource for elected officials, media, and others seeking data on Pasco EDC’s programs and impact.
The Innovation Economic Development Week Award in the bronze category recognized the 2025 Economic Development Week social media campaign.
1. Pasco EDC launched a five-day social media campaign for Economic Development Week 2025, guided by the International Economic Development Council’s theme, “Power of Partnerships.” Each day highlighted how collaboration drives economic growth in Pasco County by showcasing Pasco EDC’s leadership, SMARTstart Entrepreneurship Program, workforce development resources, business development initiatives, and Operations & Marketing team.

“We are proud to receive three Excellence in Economic Development awards from IEDC this year,” shared Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC President/CEO. “Through initiatives such as our Ready Sites videos, Annual Report, and Economic Development Week social media campaign, Pasco EDC is committed to showcasing Pasco County as a place to do business and highlighting our organization’s impact on the community through engaging and informative content.”

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.

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