FAQ: BDC's 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Awards from IEDC

What awards did the Baltimore Development Corporation receive?

BDC received two 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Awards from the International Economic Development Council: a Gold award in Innovative Financing for Harbor Point and a Silver award in Real Estate Development & Reuse for 4MLK.

Who presented these awards and what do they recognize?

The awards were presented by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and recognize transformative economic development projects that have profoundly impacted communities, regions, and nations, driving community revitalization and advancing the practice of economic development.

What is Harbor Point and why did it win a Gold award?

Harbor Point is an economic development project that won the Gold award in Innovative Financing for retaining major employers like T. Rowe Price, Morgan Stanley, and Exelon while adding a new five-acre public waterfront park for the community.

What is the 4MLK project and what recognition did it receive?

4MLK is a real estate development project that received a Silver award in Real Estate Development & Reuse for serving as a new gateway connecting the University of Maryland BioPark, University of Maryland, Baltimore, and University of Maryland Medical Center, delivering life sciences expansion space and public amenities.

When and where were these awards presented?

BDC was acknowledged and honored at the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit, MI, which took place on September 15-16.

Who are the key partners involved in these award-winning projects?

BDC shares this recognition with Beatty Development, Wexford Science & Technology, and the University of Maryland BioPark, along with their outstanding design and development teams.

What community benefits do these projects provide?

Harbor Point provides a new five-acre public waterfront park, while 4MLK offers an open public plaza, publicly accessible community space, new retail opportunities, and life sciences expansion space, creating sources of opportunity for Baltimore residents.

Why are these awards significant for Baltimore?

These awards demonstrate Baltimore’s ability to deliver transformative projects at scale and reflect the city’s commitment to creating lasting, positive change through inclusive and sustainable economic growth, recognized on an international stage.

Who provided statements about these awards?

Nathan Ohle, IEDC president and CEO, praised BDC’s leadership and innovation, while Mayor Brandon M. Scott highlighted how these projects are driving Baltimore’s Renaissance forward and creating opportunities for residents.

Where can I find more information about these awards and projects?

For more information about the IEDC’s awards and this year’s winners, visit the IEDC Excellence Awards page, or learn more about the projects at Harbor Point and 4MLK.