New York State Economic Development Council

Nominate the James W. Griffin Rising Star Awardee for 2026

The NYSEDC James W. Griffin Rising Star Award will honor an individual aged 40 or under who has made a significant contribution to the economic development profession in New York State. Consideration will be given to the quality of service and impact on New York’s economy. This influence could be across the state or within an individual community. Nominees must be members of the NYSEDC.

Each of the following criteria must be addressed:

Specific project involvement resulting in economic growth, including increased capital investment and employment for New York
Involvement with the NYSEDC
Innovation in performing his or her job
Community engagement / volunteerism
Specific achievements that have had a direct positive impact on New York’s economy

Submit nominations no later than Friday, April 10, 2026. Awards will be presented at the Annual Meeting Awards Banquet on May 20, 2026.

First Name *

Last Name *

Email *

Organization *

Name of Nominee *

Title of Nominee *

Organization where the nominee is employed *

Years that the nominee has been working in economic development

Please describe specific project involvement resulting in economic growth, including increased capital investment and employment for New York. *

What is the nominee's involvement with NYSEDC? *

How has the nominee been innovative in performing their job? *

Please describe the nominee's community service / volunteerism. *

Please describe specific achievements by the nominee that have had a direct positive impact on New York’s economy.

Headshot of the nominee (JPG preferred)

Nominee's bio

Please sign below using your mouse or your finger on a touchscreen device

Clear

Rising Star Award Nomination Form for 2026