Buda EDC Earns Highest Professional Accreditation for an Economic Development Organization

Buda, TX — October 27, 2026 — The Buda Economic Development Corporation (Buda EDC) has earned accreditation from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), becoming an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO). Buda is one of only 12 communities in Texas to earn the designation. Of the 101 accredited organizations worldwide, Buda EDC is one of the 10 smallest by population.

The AEDO program recognizes professional excellence, high performance, and accountability among economic development organizations worldwide. Earning AEDO accreditation validates how Buda EDC operates as a whole, not just the success of a single project or program. The process requires a detailed documentation review and an on-site peer evaluation by experienced economic development professionals before IEDC’s AEDO Committee votes on accreditation. The designation places Buda EDC among an elite network of organizations. It also signals to businesses, site selectors, and residents that Buda’s economic development program operates at the highest professional standard.

“AEDO isn’t an award for one project. It’s the accreditation of the entire organization. It means experienced economic development professionals from across the nation looked under the hood—at Buda EDC’s governance, finances, strategy, policies, staff, programs, and results—and determined that this organization operates at an internationally recognized standard of professional excellence,” said Jennifer Storm, Chief Executive Officer of Buda EDC.

Buda EDC’s application ran 540 pages, responding to all 20 AEDO-required categories with 75 unique documents and exhibits. The review concluded with a three-day site visit, during which evaluators interviewed more than 25 partners, EDC board and City Council members, as well as business owners and community members.

The review evaluated Buda EDC across core areas, including strategic planning, financial stewardship, business retention and expansion, business recruitment, and stakeholder engagement. In recent years, Buda EDC has taken meaningful steps that align with AEDO best practices, including:

• supporting catalytic developments that shape quality growth

• investing in infrastructure and site readiness

• prioritizing business retention through direct engagement with local employers

• investing in quality-of-life and tourism amenities that draw visitors and make Buda a great place to live and work

• expanding its target industries to include technology, aerospace, and dual-use technologies, opening new opportunities to attract innovative companies and strengthen Buda’s growing business ecosystem

Buda EDC has also strengthened regional partnerships, supported entrepreneurs, and advanced initiatives that connect workforce needs with emerging industries.

For companies considering Buda, accreditation adds another reason to take a close look. Buda sits along the I-35 corridor, the first exit south of Austin, the capital of Texas. It offers convenient access to one of the country’s fastest-growing metro economies while holding on to the heart and heritage that make it feel like home.

“This recognition tells every business looking at Buda that they’ll find a strategic, transparent, and results-driven partner here, one that holds itself to internationally recognized standards. We voluntarily went through this process because the businesses and families who call Buda home deserve nothing less,” said Storm.

About the Buda Economic Development Corporation (Buda EDC)
The Buda Economic Development Corporation (Buda EDC) champions commerce and community by fostering a business-friendly culture that advances bold ideas, drives innovation, and honors Buda’s rich heritage. Dedicated to sustainable economic growth and enhanced quality of life, Buda EDC works through strategic partnerships, targeted industry development, and comprehensive business support services to attract new investment and retain and expand local businesses. With a focus on advanced manufacturing, knowledge-intensive business services, entrepreneurism, and arts and entertainment, the organization empowers businesses at every stage to thrive while preserving the character that makes Buda unique. With a commitment to collaboration, community engagement, and preserving Buda’s unique culture, Buda EDC serves as a catalyst for opportunity, ensuring a thriving economy for residents, businesses, and future generations. Learn more at www.budaedc.com. 

Media Contact:  John Costilla | john.costilla@budaedc.com | 512-295-6525