The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) has named Jennifer Storm, CEO of the Buda Economic Development Corporation (Buda EDC), as the recipient of its 2025 Economic Developer of the Year award. Storm becomes the first Texan to receive this prestigious honor, which recognizes exceptional leadership, innovation, and measurable impact in economic development. The award celebrates individuals who demonstrate outstanding professional achievement, creativity, and dedication to advancing economic prosperity.
Under Storm's strategic direction, Buda has strengthened its position as a hub for high-wage job creation and knowledge-based businesses. Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO, stated, "Strong economies are built by leaders like Jennifer Storm who understand that lasting progress requires vision, trust, and a deep commitment to the places and people they serve." The recognition highlights how targeted economic development strategies can transform regional economies and create sustainable growth.
Notable achievements under Storm's leadership include attracting Perseus Defense, a Y Combinator-backed aerospace and defense company establishing its national headquarters in Buda. Another significant project involved US Foods' $120 million expansion creating 160 jobs. These developments demonstrate how strategic business recruitment can bring substantial investment and employment opportunities to communities.
Beyond corporate recruitment, Storm's initiatives have focused on supporting local entrepreneurship through programs like the Buda HIVE incubator and THRIVE small business loan program. The Buda EDC has also awarded approximately $267,000 in LEAP incentives to 52 local businesses for retention, expansion, workforce upskilling, marketing, and downtown revitalization. This balanced approach to economic development—combining external business attraction with internal business support—provides a model for other communities seeking comprehensive growth strategies.
Storm expressed her appreciation for the recognition while emphasizing the collaborative nature of the work. "I'm deeply honored to receive this award from IEDC. The true champions are the Buda EDC team and board, who work tirelessly to champion commerce and community," she said. The award will be formally presented at the IEDC 2026 Leadership Summit taking place March 1–3, 2026, in Washington, D.C.
For business and technology leaders, Storm's recognition underscores the importance of strategic economic development in creating environments where innovation can thrive. The success in Buda demonstrates how coordinated efforts between economic development organizations, local government, and business communities can attract knowledge-based industries while supporting existing enterprises. More information about the International Economic Development Council is available at https://www.IEDC.org, while details about the Buda Economic Development Corporation can be found at https://www.budaedc.com.
The implications of this recognition extend beyond individual achievement to highlight effective economic development practices that other regions might emulate. As communities nationwide seek to build resilient economies in an increasingly competitive landscape, the strategies implemented in Buda offer valuable insights into balancing business recruitment with local business support, workforce development, and community enhancement initiatives.
