ICAD Group Receives Economic Development Award

IEDC Honors ICAD Group 2009 Annual Report

The Iowa City Area Development (ICAD) Group received an Honorable Mention for Excellence in Economic Development for their “ICAD Group 2009 Annual Report” in the category of Annual Brochure for communities with populations of 25,000 – 200,000 from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).

The honor was presented at an awards ceremony Tuesday, September 28 during the IEDC Annual Conference.

“We thank the IEDC for this recognition and I congratulate all of our staff for the work they did to produce this report,” said ICAD Group President Joe Raso.  “In addition to communicating our work to investors and clients, this report has been helpful as a reference document for ongoing development and community projects pursued by ICAD Group.” 

The Excellence in Economic Awards Program annually recognizes the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders.  The program honors organizations and individuals in 28 categories for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities.

“We recognize ICAD Group for providing successful strategies to promote new paradigms in economic development in this period of global recovery,” said William Best, IEDC chair.  “Our awards honor organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in communities.”

For the 2009 Annual Report, the theme was influenced by the organization’s 25th anniversary.  ICAD Group showcased the history of the organization, but still produced a report that was forward looking.  A review of historical material, including past reports, newsletters, and promotional material was undertaken for inspiration.

“ICAD Group is 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,” added Best.

Working with a Robyn Hepker and TruArt, Eric Hanson, ICAD Group Communicaitons Director, created an engaging and educational report that combined the most information ever included in an ICAD Group Annual Report in its 25 year history.  The report integrated historical photos and information, congratulatory letters from elected officials, testimonials from clients, updates of primary programming areas, and financial and fund raising data, all connected to the theme of “Knowledge, Energy, Vision and Action.”

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the premier membership organization dedicated to helping economic development professionals create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities and improve the quality of life in their regions.  Serving more than 4,500 members, IEDC represents the largest network of economic development professionals in the world.  IEDC provides a diverse range of services, including conferences, certification, professional development, publications, research, advisory services and legislative tracking.