FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Max Khudiakov, CEcD
Director of Economic Development & Tourism
(575) 754-1708 - office
(575) 779-5715 – cell
mkhudiakov [at] redriver.org (mkhudiakov[at]redriver[dot]org)
Town of Red River Receives 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold & Silver Awards from the International Economic Development Council
IEDC’s annual Excellence Awards honor the economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives, and programs that demonstrate consistent, exemplary performance in the profession
August 21, 2025 – Red River, NM – Town of Red River received a 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold & Silver Awards from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The gold award was bestowed for the organization’s work in the Special Purpose Website category that impacted rural residents. Additionally, the Town of Red River received the Silver Awards in the Multimedia Promotion and Special Event categories. Town of Red River’s Director of Economic Development & Tourism, Max Khudiakov, CEcD, will be honored at the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit, Michigan, September 14–17.
"Town of Red River is leading the field of excellence in economic development with its tourism industry promotion efforts and small business development program. These awards shine a spotlight on the Town of Red River’s commitment to its community and showcase the significant impact of economic development,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “IEDC is honored to present these awards to the Town of Red River to celebrate both their leadership and innovation in the field."
Each year, IEDC honors economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives, and programs that consistently demonstrate excellence in the field. The honorees lead transformational projects that revitalize communities and advance the practice of economic development.
"We are honored to be recognized by IEDC for our work to strengthen Red River’s economy through innovative marketing, special events, and strategic small business support,” said Max Khudiakov, CEcD, Director of Economic Development & Tourism for the Town of Red River. “These projects reflect the dedication of our community partners, businesses, and staff, and highlight the importance of collaboration in building a resilient, thriving local economy.”
About the Town of Red River
Located in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Town of Red River is a year-round destination known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and vibrant tourism economy. The Town’s Office of Economic Development & Tourism works to promote sustainable growth, support small businesses, enhance visitor experiences, and strengthen Red River’s position as a premier mountain destination. Through strategic marketing, community development projects, and regional collaboration, the Town continues to invest in its long-term economic vitality.
About the International Economic Development Council
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers. With thousands of members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth, and provide a stable tax base. From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, IEDC’s members engage in a full range of economic development practices. Given the breadth of economic development work, our members are employed in various settings, including local, state, provincial, and federal governments, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, universities, and a variety of other institutions. When we succeed, our members create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions. Learn more at https://www.iedconline.org/.
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