(Photo courtesy of REDI)
Redmond Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is excited to announce the call for nominations for its annual Thrive Award. Launched in 2021, the Thrive Award aims to recognize and reward significant initiatives, programs, projects, or partnerships that have made a meaningful impact on economic development in the Redmond community. REDI seeks to publicly acknowledge individuals, organizations, and collaborations that play a vital role in enhancing the community’s growth and vitality through their dedicated efforts.
Criteria for the award include:
- Economic Impact: Demonstrates significant positive effects on community development through improvements in areas such as education, health and economic opportunities. Key economic impacts include job creation, expansion of the tax base, enhancements in education, workforce development, childcare support, business assistance programs, and foundational projects that foster long-term economic growth and success.
- Community Impact: Secondary effects of the project on the community, encompassing both anticipated and unexpected ripple effects that contribute to broader social and economic changes.
- Innovation and Originality: The introduction of creative approaches in areas such as land packaging, property acquisitions, strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and financing methodologies.
- Achievement and Results: The successful fulfillment of the organization’s stated objectives, accompanied by measurable outcomes.
- Community Relationships: The establishment of robust connections and engagement with the community, fostering widespread support and collaboration.
- Relevance and Transferability: Aspects that have the potential for application in other communities, promoting adaptability and broader relevance.
Sponsored by Mid Oregon Credit Union, REDI was excited to hand out two Thrive Awards last year. One of the awards went to the Redmond Safe Parking Program, which helps those experiencing houselessness by empowering those in need on a transitional basis and helping to build a local workforce. The second winner was the Dry Canyon Arts Association. The Association, through its educational programs, Lend Me Your Walls and first Friday Art Walk in downtown Redmond is testimony that a vibrant visual arts community contributes to a thriving economy by providing quality of life and livability through beautification.
Applications and further information about the Thrive Award can be found at rediinfo.com/about-redi/thrive-award. Nominations are due by 5pm, May 31, 2025. The winner will be announced at the 12th Annual Made in Redmond Tour on June 13, 2025.
About Redmond Economic Development Inc. (REDI):
Redmond Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) is a private, nonprofit corporation established in 1987 as a partnership between private business and the public sector to encourage economic development in the City of Redmond, Oregon. REDI’s Mission is to create prosperity through community and business development.
About Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO):
EDCO is a nonprofit corporation supported by private and public members and stakeholders, whose mission is to create middle-class jobs in Central Oregon by: recruiting new employers to move to the region; helping entrepreneurs start new, scalable businesses; and working with businesses that are already here to grow their operations.
