The prestigious NAT Top 50 Economic Developer Awards for 2023 have brought to the forefront the remarkable accomplishments and unwavering commitment of economic development professionals across North America. Among the distinguished awardees are Joe Wallace, Diana Velazquez, EDFP, PCED, and Daniel Silverman, whose exceptional contributions have transformed communities and set new benchmarks for innovation and leadership.
Joe Wallace – Pioneering Innovation and Resilience
Joe Wallace, the CEO and chief innovation officer of the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership, stands as a beacon of innovative leadership in challenging environments. His perseverance and strategic thinking have been instrumental in securing a $79 million expansion for a local university, enhancing educational opportunities, and fostering growth.
Wallace’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through as he ventures into leading-edge technology, earning a place on the NASDAQ list and establishing two entrepreneur-based incubation centers. His visionary outlook anticipates economic development’s shift towards democratizing talent through remote work facilitation and attraction.
Diana Velazquez – Transforming Prospects into Reality
Diana Velazquez, Vice President of Economic Development at Greater Irving – Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce, has been celebrated for consistently going above and beyond for every project she undertakes.
Her instrumental role in securing the Wells Fargo project in Irving created 5000 new jobs, underscoring her dedication to improving the lives of families within her community. Velazquez’s passion for fostering relationships and changing lives resonates deeply, as she believes that the impact of economic development goes beyond the surface, leaving a lasting mark on families’ quality of life.
Daniel Silverman – Leading Change on a Regional Scale
Daniel Silverman, Vice President of Foreign Direct Investment at Investissement Québec, has been recognized for his exceptional leadership and team-building skills in his organization and the broader North American landscape.
His expertise extends to economic development facets, including foreign direct investment, trade, talent attraction, financing, start-ups, and equity diversity and inclusion. Silverman’s perspective on economic development’s evolution reflects its multifaceted nature, encompassing initiatives that drive local and regional prosperity.
Consultant Connect’s Commitment to Honoring Excellence
Consultant Connect’s annual NAT Top 50 Economic Developer Awards serve as a platform to recognize and celebrate economic development professionals who have made significant strides in advancing their communities. These awards highlight the transformative impact of economic development on communities and underscore the dedication and passion exhibited by these professionals in their pursuit of excellence.
ECONOMIX 2023: A Hub of Learning and Networking
The awardees will be honored at Consultant Connect’s ECONOMIX event, set to take place in Atlanta, GA, on November 30. ECONOMIX offers a unique opportunity for economic developers to engage in two days of insightful discussions, inspiration, and networking. The event delves into industry trends and site consultant perspectives while fostering meaningful connections through activities like Office Hours and small group interactions.
Conclusion – Celebrating Achievements and Shaping the Future
The NAT Top 50 Economic Developer Awardees of 2023, Joe Wallace, Diana Velazquez, and Daniel Silverman, stand as exemplars of excellence in economic development. Their visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and transformative impact inspire the economic development community, reinforcing the belief that economic growth is not only about infrastructure but about fostering relationships, nurturing talent, and enriching lives.
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