Denton EDP Blog

 

 

“We recognize the Denton Economic Development Partnership for providing successful strategies to promote new standards in economic development in this period of global recovery. They are showing that they are at the forefront of the economic development profession and are using innovative and effective practices that can be replicated in other communities.”

-Dennis Coleman, IEDC chair

 

 

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the largest professional economic development membership organization in the world, serving more than 4,500 members. Committed to providing continued education and assistance to its members through conferences, certifications, professional development, publications, research, advising and legislative tracking, the IEDC aims to assist in the creation of dynamic communities that thrive financially and offer an increased quality of life.

 

This year, on September 18-21, the IEDC held its Annual Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. In addition to the many engaging speakers and seminars, there was a presentation of the Excellence in Economic Development Awards. The Awards distinguish the year’s best economic development programs and partnerships, most instrumental marketing materials, and the most prominent leaders in the world. The program honors organizations and individuals in 28 categories for their accomplishments in fostering positive change in communities.

 

Of the 28 categories, the Denton Economic Development Partnership received Honorable Mention in two for communities with populations of 25,000-200,000: Special Purpose Brochure and Neighborhood Development.

 

Special Purpose Brochure

The Denton Airport (DTO) is an economic treasure for the city. A general-aviation airport, it serves as a super-reliever for DFW in Dallas. It became an Enterprise Fund versus being funded by the city’s general fund in 2010, thus prioritizing marketing and promotion of the airport itself and its surrounding available properties. So, in response to elevated private interests, our Denton Airport Available Properties Brochure was created to supply technical and general facts and to identify the areas for development. Debuting in October 2010 in Atlanta at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), the piece has since proved useful in discussions with interested parties.

 

Neighborhood Development

The Downtown Incentive Reimbursement Grant Program offers a city-funded 50:50 match for the expenses incurred for eligible building improvements such as new awnings, signage, wall repairs, utility upgrades, etc. of downtown businesses up to $50,000.  Since the 2007-2008 fiscal year, 15 grants have been awarded. For every dollar the city invests, the private sector invests $36. Within the past four years, redevelopment has nearly equaled that of the last 17 years combined. The grant aims to encourage others to build and develop the downtown area in order to create a diverse and aesthetic center for Denton. More grant information can be found on our site in the Downtown Development section.

 

Karen Dickson, Vice President, accepted the awards on Tuesday, September 20.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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