The International Economic Development Council has selected Jennifer Storm, CEO of the Buda Economic Development Corporation, as its 2025 Economic Developer of the Year. Storm is the first recipient from Texas to earn this honor, which acknowledges exceptional leadership, innovation, and measurable impact in the field of economic development. The award specifically celebrates an individual's outstanding professional achievement, creativity, and dedication to advancing economic prosperity.
Under Storm's strategic guidance, Buda has enhanced its reputation as a center for high-wage job creation and knowledge-based enterprises. Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO, remarked that strong economies are built by leaders like Jennifer Storm who recognize that lasting progress demands vision, trust, and a profound commitment to the communities and individuals they serve. He expressed enthusiasm about recognizing Storm with the 2025 award.
Key initiatives spearheaded by Storm and the Buda EDC include attracting Perseus Defense, a Y Combinator-supported aerospace and defense firm establishing its national headquarters in Buda. Another major accomplishment is the US Foods expansion, involving a $120 million investment that generated 160 jobs. The organization has also prioritized entrepreneurship through programs such as the Buda HIVE incubator and the THRIVE small business loan initiative.
Supporting local businesses has been fundamental to Storm's approach, with the Buda EDC distributing roughly $267,000 in LEAP incentives to 52 local businesses. These resources have facilitated business retention, expansion, workforce development, marketing, and downtown renewal projects. Storm acknowledged the honor by crediting the Buda EDC team and board for their relentless efforts to promote commerce and community.
Storm will be officially honored at the IEDC 2026 Leadership Summit scheduled for March 1–3, 2026, in Washington, D.C. The International Economic Development Council serves as the largest global association for economic development professionals, offering support through education, networking, research, advocacy, and international partnerships. Additional details about the organization are available at https://www.IEDC.org. The Buda Economic Development Corporation, focused on encouraging sustainable economic growth and improving quality of life in Buda, Texas, provides more information at https://www.budaedc.com.
