MEMPHIS, Tenn., Oct 9, 2025 –The Economic Development Growth Engine for Memphis and Shelby County (EDGE) hosted its third annual Economic Development & Community Recognition Awards Breakfast today at the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms. The event brought together decision-makers, business leaders, and community members to celebrate individuals and organizations driving economic and community growth across the region.
The celebration featured remarks from EDGE President and CEO Dr. Joann Massey, video messages from U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty and Tennessee Rep. Karen Camper, and keynote speeches from Memphis Mayor Paul Young and Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships and regional collaboration in shaping sustainable growth.
“This year’s honorees represent the best of Memphis and Shelby County. These leaders and organizations are investing in today and building a foundation for long-term prosperity,” said Dr. Massey. “Their vision, leadership, and commitment demonstrate the power of working together to achieve economic progress that benefits all.”
A total of 16 awards were presented, honoring contributions ranging from transformational corporate projects to small business innovation and cultural leadership:
- Economic Impact Project of the Year: AAON, Inc.
- Leadership Award: William B. Dunavant III, CEO & Champion; Richard W. Smith, CEO & Champion
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Frederick W. Smith, Founder & Visionary
- Small Business Impact Awards: Trap Fusion and Hard Times Deli
- Kidpreneur of the Year: Mariah Shield, Mariah’s Suga Rush
- Culture Makers Award: Joanna Crangle and the Memphis Business Journal Staff; Cynthia Daniels, Cynthia Daniels & Co.
- Regional Economic Development Agency of the Year: Cushman & Wakefield
- Awards of Appreciation: Wepfer Marine, Inc.; Hyosung HICO; KTG USA
- Economic Development Collaborator Award: Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development
- Economic Development Marketing Campaign Champion: Bartlett Chamber of Commerce
- Chairman’s Award: Darrell Cobbins
“The progress we’ve seen in Memphis is a testament to the collective efforts of public and private sectors working together,” said Al Bright, Jr., Member at Bass, Berry & Sims and EDGE Chairman. “These awards highlight that collaboration and celebrate the meaningful work being done to ensure our city’s continued growth.”
As EDGE looks ahead, the organization remains focused on building sustainable, inclusive economic opportunities by fostering impactful partnerships and supporting both large-scale development and grassroots entrepreneurship.
About EDGE
Created in 2011 through a joint resolution of the Memphis City Council and the Shelby County Commission, EDGE is the economic development agency for the City of Memphis and Shelby County Government. EDGE provides and coordinates public resources to drive economic development in Memphis and Shelby County. EDGE leverages the benefits of economic development incentive programs to foster public/private partnerships that create jobs, grow the economy, revitalize neighborhoods, attract investments, spark innovation, and encourage entrepreneurship.
To date, EDGE has approved assistance to projects expected to create and retain nearly 40,000 jobs, invest $8.2 billion, and generate $1.7 billion in local tax revenue and $993.7 million in spending with Minority/Women-Owned Businesses in Memphis and Shelby County. For more information, visit edgemem.com.
Arlenia Cole , [email protected]
Beth Wilson , [email protected]