Arlington Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the City of Arlington have been recognized with two 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Awards from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The honors include a Gold Award for the Arlington EDC website in the General Purpose Website category and a Bronze Award for the LiftFund Interest Buydown program in the Innovative Financing category.
The awards highlight Arlington’s efforts to strengthen both digital outreach and small-business support. The EDC’s website has already received recognition from the Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers and is a finalist in the 3CMA Savvy Awards, underscoring its role as a leading resource for investment and community engagement.
The LiftFund Interest Buydown program, created through the first partnership between LiftFund and a North Texas municipality, provides interest-free loans to local entrepreneurs. Since its launch, the program has awarded more than $625,000 to 12 businesses, supporting over 100 jobs across Arlington.
Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO, said the awards reflect Arlington’s leadership in economic development. “This award shines a spotlight on Arlington’s commitment to its community and showcases the significant impact of economic development,” he said.
IEDC’s annual awards program recognizes projects and organizations that drive transformational growth in communities worldwide. Winners will be celebrated at the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit, Michigan, September 14–17.
