Salt Lake City's efforts in forging a robust economy haven't gone unnoticed; they've just scored the 2025 Mac Conway Award for Excellence in Economic Development, one of the highest recognitions from Site Selection Magazine. The award, which signifies the city's commitment to investment, job creation, and economic growth, shines a spotlight on the results-driven approach of Salt Lake City's Department of Economic Development.
Bringing home this national accolade, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall expressed the collective pride in a statement, "Salt Lake City stands as a leader in economic opportunity and innovation," and the award "is a testament to the amazing teamwork of our economic development staff and community partners, who are shaping our city into a thriving hub for business growth and investment," as obtained by Salt Lake City. The city's partnership with businesses and the relentless push for development have cemented its status as a key player in economic expansion.
The Mac Conway Award, named after the economic development pioneer and founder of Site Selection Magazine, evaluates organizations on a host of criteria, including the number of total projects, total investment, and jobs associated with those projects, as well as per-capita calculations for these metrics. Salt Lake City's dossier, packed with 23 projects and infrastructures associated with over $621 million and 2,200 jobs, was impressive enough for it to be recognized this year alongside other influential economic organizations across the country.
Lorena Riffo-Jenson, Director of the Department of Economic Development, captured their mission and dedication in her remarks, "This award reflects our team’s dedication to building a strong and resilient economy in Salt Lake City," she told Site Selection Magazine, and "we are honored to stand alongside impactful organizations that drive economic success across the country," as per Salt Lake City. Despite a no-doubt competitive field, the city's strategic pursuit of sustainable economic strategies has differentiated it, laying the groundwork for future prosperity.
