Press release from the Economic Development Coalition of Asheville-Buncombe County:
WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 29, 2016) – The Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County received a 2016 Silver Excellence in Economic Development Award for its “Asheville Creates” video project in the category of Video/Multimedia Promotion from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
The honor was presented at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 27, during the IEDC Annual Conference, which was held Sept. 25-28, in Cleveland, Ohio.
“On behalf of the IEDC board of directors and Excellence in Economic Development Awards Advisory Committee, congratulations to the EDC for Asheville-Buncombe County. Not only did they work to provide a service to their community; but also, their participation in the awards program sheds light on their stellar projects which other communities can now use as a benchmark,” commented Barry Matherly, CEcD, FM, IEDC 2016 Board Chair, President & CEO of the Greater Richmond Partnership.
The “Asheville Creates” video was a 100% local collaborative effort to elevate awareness of artisans, creative makers, entrepreneurship, and innovation in the region through the lens of economic development.
“Asheville Creates” received over 10,000 online views in the first few weeks of its debut this past spring. It features an original song and live performance by local band The Broadcast, whose latest album was produced by seven-time Grammy-winner Jim Scott, producer for musicians like Tom Petty and Rolling Stones. Amplified Media filmed and produced the video.
The project highlights time-honored arts and artisan culture that is representative of the Asheville brand, a brand that attracts talent, business, and visitors to the area. It makes connections to local artists’ activities in a variety of ways, explores process-to-product, the connection of arts and commerce, and the ways a creative culture can drive an economy of innovation.
“We are thrilled to have the project recognized by IEDC. The video would not have been successful without the contributions of so many talented local artists, businesses and EDC partners. They truly brought this collaboration to life,” said Heidi Reiber, Research Director at the EDC and Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce.
“The awards process is a thorough, non-biased and multi-layered process,” added Matherly. “These are extraordinary accomplishments for all winners, and an overall great effort by all participants.”
Asheville Creates from EDC Asheville on Vimeo.
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