August 21, 2025 – Lansing, Mich. – We are pleased to announce that Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) received two 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Silver Awards from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The award was bestowed for the organization’s work in the categories Recovery, Resiliency & Mitigation as well as Economic Equity & Inclusion both of which impacted nearly half a million residents in the Lansing–East Lansing Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). Bob Trezise, LEAP’s president and CEO, will be honored at the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit, Michigan, September 14-17.
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.
“LEAP is leading the field of excellence in economic development with its Ingham County Sunrise Program. This award shines a spotlight on LEAP’s commitment to its community and showcases the significant impact of economic development,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC president and CEO. “IEDC is honored to present this award to LEAP to celebrate both their leadership and innovation in the field.”
The Ingham County Sunrise Business Relief Program provided $9.75 million in grants and business support to 630 small businesses and nonprofits in sectors hardest hit by economic disruption. The program strengthened the local economy through training, accelerators, and infrastructure investment, helping businesses recover and grow for long-term success.
“This recognition is a great example of Ingham County’s leadership and commitment to supporting local businesses through trying times and beyond,” said Ryan Sebolt, Ingham County Board of Commissioners.
This effort was made possible through the leadership of Ingham County, which selected LEAP to design and administer the program, ensuring both immediate relief and long-term economic resilience for the community. LEAP’s programming was specifically designed to fill gaps and support businesses and organizations that were often missed by previous pandemic relief grant programs, such as newly formed businesses, sole proprietors, childcare providers, nonprofits and business incubators.
“Receiving these awards is a testament to the hard work and innovative approach that LEAP’s staff and our partners took during a worldwide crisis,” said Bob Trezise, president and CEO of LEAP. “We stepped up and saved hundreds of businesses at the onset, but we also gave the grants program lasting legs, ensuring the funding had sustained positive impact on community and people well beyond the pandemic’s most acute first year or two. It’s been a gift that keeps on giving throughout our small business community.”
