The Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (BBCRA) is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Bronze Award for Economic Development Agency of the Year by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). BBCRA staff was acknowledged and honored at the IEDC 2024 Annual Conference in Denver, CO, September 15-18.
Every year IEDC looks specifically for economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives, and programs that have demonstrated consistent, exemplary performance in the economic development profession, leading the execution of projects that have a significant impact on revitalizing communities, and playing a major role in shaping and improving the practice of economic development. This year, over 500 entries were submitted across 26 unique program categories, with 146 organizations receiving a total of 238 distinguished awards.
The BBCRA was selected for this prestigious honor because of its innovative and comprehensive approach to fostering local economic development and community engagement.
Key initiatives that contributed to the BBCRA receiving this award include:
- Coastal Cruiser Rideshare Program: An eco-friendly transportation solution that enhances mobility for residents and visitors, providing convenient access to local businesses, attractions, and services in the BBCRA district.
- Affordable Housing – Heart of Boynton Village Apartments and Shops: A transformative development providing much-needed affordable housing options while integrating retail spaces to support local commerce. This project reflects the BBCRA’s commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in the Heart of Boynton neighborhood.
- Commercial Business Grants: The BBCRA offers various grant programs to assist new and existing businesses with rent reimbursement and building improvements. These grants help stimulate economic growth and ensure the continued success of small businesses in the area.
Business Booster Workshop Series: Designed to empower local business owners with knowledge and tools to grow their enterprises, the Business Booster Workshop Series offers training on topics such as strategic planning, marketing, and financial management. - Business Promotional Activations: Specially tailored activations like Rock the Plaza and the Boynton Beach Night Market bring the community together while promoting local businesses. These activations provide a platform for local merchants to connect with residents, increase visibility, and boost sales.
“The Boynton Beach CRA is setting the standard of excellence for economic development with its economic development efforts. This award highlights the Boynton Beach CRA’s commitment to its community and demonstrates the transformative impact of economic development,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO, “It is with great pride that IEDC presents this award to the Boynton Beach CRA, celebrating their leadership and innovation in the field of economic development.”
“We are absolutely thrilled to announce this year’s award winners. These exceptional projects showcase remarkable dedication and ingenuity within the field,” said Kevin Kramer, Chair of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards Advisory Committee. “The Boynton Beach CRA’s contributions will leave a lasting impact and demonstrate its commitment to creating positive change for its residents.”
About Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (BBCRA)
The Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency is committed to serving the community by guiding redevelopment activities and stimulating economic growth within its 1,650-acre district. The organization focuses on creating a vibrant downtown core, providing affordable housing, revitalizing neighborhoods, and designing programs and initiatives that are supportive to the local business community. For more information on the BBCRA, its programs and activities, call (561) 737-3256, or visit www.boyntonbeachcra.com
About the International Economic Development Council
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers. With more than 4,300 members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth, and provide a stable tax base.
From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, IEDC’s members engage in the full range of economic development practices. Given the breadth of economic development work, our members are employed in various settings, including local, state, provincial, and federal governments, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, universities, and a variety of other institutions. When IEDC succeeds, its members create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions. Learn more at www.iedconline.org today!