EDA Annual Awards of Excellence Program

This program celebrates the outstanding economic development programs, partnerships, and professionals in Alberta, acknowledging their significant contributions to the field.

This exclusive opportunity is a benefit of EDA membership.

The next awards will be presented over 2 evenings at EDA Xperience 2026 Leaders' Summit and Conference April 15-17 at the Pomeroy Mountain Lodge in Kananaskis AB.

EDA Annual Awards of Excellence 2026

TIMELINE

November 17, 2025: Call for Entries

March 13, 2026: Submission Deadline

April 15 & 16, 2026: Awards Presented

ELIGIBILITY

Any EDA member, Full or Affiliate, that is in good standing and resides within Alberta.

ENTRY FEES

Community Awards of Excellence - $115 (+ GST)

No Charge:

Emerging Talent in Economic Development
Economic Developer of the Year
Gerry Gabinet Mentorship Award

CATEGORIES

Community Awards of Excellence
Recognizes outstanding work from economic developers across Alberta and showcases best practices in economic development. There are 4 categories and 3 population sizes for a total of 12 awards.

Economic Developer of the Year
Recognizes an EDA member that has made a significant contribution to the economic development profession within the province of Alberta.

Emerging Talent in Economic Development
Recognizes an EDA member that demonstrates notable professional accomplishments to date with less than 5 years experience as EDO.

The Gerry Gabinet Mentorship Award
Recognizes an Economic Development Professional who has demonstrated a commitment to mentoring others in the profession.

The Chair's Award
This award is presented by the EDA Chair to recognize a member that has contributed to the Association.

Alex Metcalfe – Best of Show
In honour of Alex Metcalfe, one of EDA's founding members, and first President in 1974, this award is judged from the overall community award winners with one (1) best of show candidate chosen in each population size for a total of 3 Awards.