Economic Development Awards

Celebrating innovation, vision, and collaboration
in North Carolina’s public power communities.

Award Categories

Innovation in Economic Development Award

Recognizing cutting-edge initiatives that advance workforce, infrastructure, and business development.

Example initiatives:
  • Virtual industrial site tours
  • Data-driven workforce programs
  • Creative incentive structures for redevelopment

Horizons in Economic Development Award

Honoring future-ready strategies that support sustainable, diversified economic growth.

Example initiatives:
  • Clean energy industry attraction
  • Smart grid or resilient infrastructure investments
  • Workforce pipelines aligned with emerging industries

Collaborative Impact Award

Celebrating partnerships that foster community-wide economic success.

Example initiatives:
  • Regional recruitment efforts
  • EDO + utility + higher ed training programs
  • Joint public-private small business initiatives

How to Apply

Application Period: May 1–May 30, 2025

To apply:
  1. Complete the application form below
  2. Submit all materials by May 30
  3. Projects must have been completed within the last 12 months prior to the application period.
You may submit entries for multiple award categories and multiple initiatives. If you’re an EDO submitting on behalf of a community, please coordinate with the city or town prior to submission.

Have questions? Contact Audrey Boone aboone@electricities.org

Award Benefits

Winners will receive:
  • A custom award trophy
  • A ½-page feature in Business North Carolina (design support provided)
  • Recognition via ElectriCities’ social media and press outreach
  • Recognition at the ElectriCities Annual Conference

Economic Development Awards Application

"*" indicates required fields

Contact Name*
Email*
Award Category*
(Please describe the initiative, including measurable results, partnerships, and alignment with award criteria)
Drop files here or
Accepted file types: jpg, gif, png, pdf, Max. file size: 100 MB, Max. files: 10.
    This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

    Questions?