The Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission received the Silver Excellence in Economic Development Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for the development, implementation and results of its program of work. The silver award was received in the category of Multiyear Economic Development Programming for communities with populations of 25,000 - 200,000.

“Our work at the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission is rooted in the fundamental goal of facilitating economic growth for Albany-Dougherty County and strengthening its brand as the ideal business location,” said Justin Strickland, president of the Albany-Dougherty EDC. “It’s an incredible honor for the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and for our community, to be recognized internationally for our work to attract new business investment and drive the expansion of existing industry.”

“From localized community projects, to large scale endeavors, economic development efforts have played a vital role in the global economy,” said JoAnn Crary, CEcD, chair of the International Economic Development Council and President of Saginaw Future Inc. “As we address new and longstanding challenges, these efforts continue to take on even greater importance. The award serves as a salute to pacesetting organizations like the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission for leading the charge." 

In 2012, the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, with assistance from community leaders, conducted a SWOT analysis of the organization, which ultimately led to a new strategic plan. The plan, which was derived from community input, focused on the most critical elements for economic development success. 

The ADEDC categorized the strategies into three key areas: Recruitment (of industry), Retention (of industry) and Renewal (of community image and pride). Its program, the “Three Rs of Economic Development,” has led to economic development success; improved the agency’s brand; led to the creation of a new community brand and logo; in collaboration with the city of Albany, facilitated the creation of the Albany Job Investment Fund; created ambassadors for the ADEDC and for economic development; and has allowed the ADEDC to tell the story of Albany-Dougherty County in a way that resonates with multiple audiences.

In 2014, the ADEDC was honored for its marketing campaign featuring the “We are Albany” and “Made in Albany” videos. 

The IEDC honor was presented at an awards ceremony during the 2015 IEDC Annual Conference, which was held October 4-7 in Anchorage, Alaska. 

Since fiscal year 2012, the ADEDC has announced 1,218 new jobs and $255,250,000 in new business investment for Albany-Dougherty County. 

These awards, reserved for the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials and the year’s most influential leaders, honor organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities. Receiving the IEDC's Excellence in Economic Development Award attests that the ADEDC is at the forefront of the economic development profession, on an international level.