40 Under 40

Recognizing the next generation of economic development leaders.

The biannual 40 Under 40 in Economic Development Awards, presented by DCI and Jorgenson Pace, Inc. in partnership with IEDC during its centennial year, recognize the rising professionals driving real impact across communities and industries.

For more than a decade, our 40 Under 40 program has recognized professionals who are making a meaningful difference—leaders who innovate, collaborate and push communities forward.

Now, in a milestone year for the industry, we’re amplifying that impact and elevating the individuals who will define the next century of economic development.

About
Criteria
Nomination Period
Ceremony

About

Prestigious Award for Rising Economic Development Stars

Help us recognize the next generation of community leaders.

The 40 Under 40 in Economic Development Awards, presented by DCI and Jorgenson Pace, Inc., recognizes the rising leaders shaping the future of the industry—professionals who are already making a measurable impact in their communities.

Founded by DCI in partnership with Jorgenson Pace, Inc., the program was created to spotlight emerging talent and strengthen the leadership pipeline across economic development.

During IEDC’s centennial year, the partnership expands to include the International Economic Development Council, bringing greater visibility to a shared mission: investing in the next generation of leaders who will guide the industry forward.

Today, the 40 Under 40 Awards are more than a recognition program. They are a platform to elevate professionals who are translating ideas into action, advancing their communities and helping define what economic development looks like next.

Criteria

Nominate a Changemaker

Know someone making a positive impact in their community?

The 40 Under 40 in Economic Development Awards, presented by DCI and Jorgenson Pace, Inc. in partnership with IEDC during its centennial year, recognize professionals under the age of 40 who are already making a measurable impact on their communities, organizations and the industry.

Nominees are evaluated based on the following:

Leadership: Demonstrates strong leadership within their organization and the broader economic development community.
Impact: Has contributed to meaningful, measurable outcomes—whether through business attraction, talent initiatives, policy or community development.
Innovation: Brings fresh ideas, forward-thinking strategies and a willingness to challenge the status quo.
Commitment to Community: Actively works to build stronger, more inclusive communities through their work.

All nominees must be under the age of 40 by January 1, 2027.

Nomination Period

Timeline and Key Dates

Cast your submission today.

The 2027 Awards will follow a structured timeline designed to recognize and celebrate the industry’s rising leaders.

Nominations Open: August 2026
Nominations Close: November 2026
Winners Notified: Mid-December 2026

The selected Class of 2027 will be formally recognized at an awards ceremony held in February 2027 at the IEDC Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.—bringing together the industry’s top emerging and established leaders for a moment of celebration and connection.

Ceremony

Rolling Out the Red Carpet

Award ceremony held at IEDC Leadership Summit.

Each class of honorees is celebrated at a private awards ceremony held in conjunction with the IEDC Leadership Summit, bringing together the industry’s top established and emerging leaders in one place.

This special event is an opportunity to connect, reflect and celebrate the professionals who are already making a measurable impact across economic development. Set against the backdrop of one of the industry’s most influential gatherings, the ceremony shines a spotlight on the rising stars shaping what’s next—and welcomes them into a broader community of leaders driving the field forward.