Tri-Cities organization wins award for Gateway Region

Acknowledging the Virginia's Gateway Region for its exceptional promotional brochure, the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) presented an award to the Colonial Heights, Virginia-based entity at IEDC's Annual Conference, which took place in Atlanta, Georgia, October 19-22. The organization was recognized for this achievement during an awards ceremony on Tuesday, October 21st.

"Economic development efforts have long been a keystone in the quest to bolster the economy and improve quality of life in every locality across the country," said Robin Roberts Krieger, IEDC chair. "As the nation continues to tackle longstanding challenges in the midst of an inhospitable financial climate, these efforts have taken on an even greater significance. With the award, we laud trendsetting organizations like Virginia's Gateway Region for leading the charge."

Competing in the category of General Purpose Promotion by organizations serving areas with populations exceeding 200,000, Virginia's Gateway Region was a clear standout. The organization exists to enhance the economic development opportunities for the cities of Colonial Heights, Hopewell and Petersburg, and the counties of Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Prince George, Surry and Sussex.

Virginia's Gateway Region is a private, nonprofit organization that is publicly and privately funded to facilitate new business opportunities, work with existing businesses, advance resources that will enhance the economic viability of the region and foster regional cooperation among the public and private entities that are involved in economic development activities. The "Region at a Glance" booklet serves as a guide to hit the major highpoints of the region to spark interest among site selection consultants and prospective companies nationally and internationally. The organization wanted to create a snapshot to educate the readers on why the Gateway Region is the right choice for their business location or expansion.

"Winning this award means a great deal to our organization. We take a lot of pride in our marketing material and strive to create collateral that are distinctive and innovative. The Gateway Region is an area rich with history, culture, world-class companies and people and we work to convey that story through our marketing," said Renee Wyatt-Chapline, executive director of Virginia's Gateway Region.

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is headquartered in Washington. Its mission is to provide leadership and excellence in economic development for communities, members and partners. IEDC's professional economic development awards annually recognize excellence in the economic development profession.