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 is the first Texan to receive this prestigious honor, which celebrates exceptional leadership, innovation, and measurable impact in economic development. This recognition matters because it highlights the critical role of local economic developers in building resilient communities and creating sustainable prosperity through strategic business recruitment and support.
The award honors an individual who has demonstrated 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 that 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 IEDC is the world's largest association for economic developers, and more information about its work can be found at https://www.IEDC.org.
Notable projects led by Storm and the Buda EDC include Perseus Defense, a Y Combinator-backed aerospace and defense company establishing its national headquarters in Buda, and a US Foods expansion representing a $120 million investment creating 160 jobs. The organization has also launched the Buda HIVE incubator and THRIVE small business loan program to support entrepreneurship, while awarding approximately $267,000 in LEAP incentives to 52 local businesses for retention, expansion, workforce upskilling, marketing, and downtown revitalization. These initiatives demonstrate how targeted economic development can directly impact job quality, business innovation, and community vitality.
Storm expressed deep honor in receiving the award from IEDC, crediting the Buda EDC team and board as the true champions who work tirelessly to champion commerce and community. She will be formally recognized at the IEDC 2026 Leadership Summit, taking place March 1–3, 2026, in Washington, D.C. The Buda Economic Development Corporation is dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth and enhancing quality of life in Buda, Texas, and additional details about its mission are available at https://www.budaedc.com.
This award underscores the importance of local economic development organizations in shaping regional economies. For communities nationwide, Storm's recognition serves as a model for how strategic leadership can attract significant investments, support small businesses, and create high-quality employment opportunities. The implications extend beyond Buda, offering a blueprint for other municipalities seeking to balance growth with community needs through innovative programs and partnerships that drive measurable economic impact.
