NCEDA presents an annual award to recognize NCEDA members who achieved a significant project in communities with varying sizes, character and target markets.

Current Honorees

Small Market

Oppie Jordan

Carolinas Gateway Partnership (Natron Energy)

Mid-Sized Market

Jennifer Lantz

Johnson & Johnson (Wilson Economic Development Council)

Large Market

Josh Hallingse

FedUp Foods (Wilmington Chamber of Commerce)

Past Honorees

• 2024 Small Market Deal of the Year – Gary Lanier (Provalus, Columbus County)
• 2024 Mid-Size Market Deal of the Year – Dylan Finch and Marvin Price (Marshall Aerospace, Guilford County)
• 2024 Large Market Deal of the Year – Kevin Franklin (Toyota, Randolph County)
• 2023 Small Market Deal of the Year – Burton Hodges (Pisgah Labs, Transylvania County)
• 2023 Mid-Market Deal of the Year – Peter Bishop and David Yonkovich-Putnam (Steri-Tek, Alamance County)
• 2023 Large Market Deal of the Year – Michael Smith (Wolfspeed, Chatham County)
• 2022 Small Market Deal of the Year – Josh Hallinsge (Raybow USA, Transylvania County)
• 2022 Mid-Market Deal of the Year – Kevin Franklin and Brent Christensen (Toyota, Randolph County)
• 2022 Large Market Deal of the Year – Ashley Cagle (Apple, Wake County)

This award recognizes an emerging leader whose energy, initiative, and accomplishments are strengthening economic development in North Carolina.

Presented annually for outstanding economic development projects in small, mid-size, and large markets across the state.

Recognizing creative approaches and new ideas that advance the practice of economic development.

Honoring a distinguished career of service and achievement in North Carolina economic development.

Presented at the discretion of the NCEDA President for exceptional contributions to the association and the profession.