MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Economic Development Growth Engine for Memphis and Shelby County (EDGE), today hosted its second annual Economic Development & Community Recognition Awards Breakfast. Held at the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms Park, the event gathered key decision-makers, business leaders, and community members to celebrate contributions to the region’s economic and community development. Photos from the event are linked here.
The celebration featured remarks from EDGE President and CEO Dr. Joann Massey, a video message from U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty, and keynote speeches by Memphis Mayor Paul Young and Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris, who emphasized the value of public-private partnerships and regional collaboration in driving sustainable growth.
A total of 15 awards were presented, including the prestigious Economic Impact Project of the Year, given to the I-55 Bridge Funding project and accepted by Congressman Steve Cohen. The Leadership Award was given to Mayor Lee Harris, Mayor Paul Young, and Shelby County Commissioner Charlie Caswell. Mark Herbison received the Lifetime Achievement Award. These honors acknowledge individuals who have made a transformative impact on Memphis and Shelby County.
“We are thrilled to recognize the achievements of these outstanding leaders who are shaping the future of our region,” said Dr. Massey. “Their commitment to driving economic development in our communities demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships and collaboration.”
The ICED Loan Impact Business of the Year was awarded to Riko’s Kickin’ Chicken for its community influence through EDGE’s Inner-City Economic Development Loan. Princeton Jones of Fab Dawgs & More received the Kidpreneur of the Year Award for his entrepreneurial spirit. The inaugural Culture Maker Awards went to Curtis Givens of CGI Entertainment and Tamara Cook, executive director of the Cooper Young Business Association, for helping to mold Memphis’ cultural scene.
EDGE Board of Directors Chairman, Al Bright, emphasized in a prepared statement the collaborative spirit that has made these successes possible. “The progress we’ve seen in Memphis is a testament to the collective efforts of public and private sectors working together,” Bright stated. “These awards celebrate teamwork and highlight the meaningful work being done to ensure our city’s continued growth.”
As EDGE remains committed to facilitating impactful partnerships, its vision for the future is focused on creating sustainable, long-term economic opportunities for all Memphians.
About EDGE
Created in 2011 through a joint resolution of the Memphis City Council and the Shelby County Commission, EDGE is the economic development agency for the City of Memphis and Shelby County Government. EDGE provides and coordinates public resources to drive economic development in Memphis and Shelby County. EDGE leverages the benefits of economic development incentive programs to foster public/private partnerships that create jobs, grow the economy, revitalize neighborhoods, attract investments, spark innovation, and encourage entrepreneurship.
To date, EDGE has approved assistance to projects expected to create and retain nearly 40,000 jobs, invest $8.2 billion, and generate $1.7 billion in local tax revenue and $993.7 million in spending with Minority/Women-Owned Businesses in Memphis and Shelby County. For more information, visit edgemem.com.
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