The Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC), the largest regional economic development association in North America, representing the world’s best economy builders across a 17-state region, has honored Jefferson Davis County for its outstanding achievements in economic development in the American South.

Each year, SEDC reviews economic development projects submitted by organizations from across its footprint, evaluating them for innovation, collaboration and overall impact.

This year, during a ceremony at the 2024 SEDC Annual Conference in Savannah, Georgia, Jefferson Davis County was celebrated for economic development program excellence among communities with populations under 5,000.

“Every year, SEDC recognizes Southern communities that drive economic development excellence. In 2024, we proudly continued this tradition by selecting the CEDA Award Winners,” said Brian Gwin, SEDC Chairman. “Congratulations to all who participated and were ultimately recognized for this significant achievement. The American South remains strong in attracting and retaining jobs due to your unwavering efforts,” he said.

Jefferson Davis County’s “Light Up the Trace” event is the first of its kind, illuminating the Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile Rails to Trails corridor from Hattiesburg to Prentiss, with luminarias on the winter solstice.

This regional event spans five key locations: Prentiss Gateway Park, Prentiss Institute HBCU, Carson Station, Bassfield Station and Sumrall Station, serving four communities across three towns and two counties.

The event’s unique approach not only raises funds but also enhances safety and security along the trail and exemplifies how communities can unite to create meaningful, impactful events.

“SEDC members are relentlessly and innovatively accelerating economic development across the American South. Collaboratively, our membership operates within a network that has built the equivalent of the 3rd largest economy on the planet and has positioned us for continued progress,” said SEDC President Matt Tackett. “Our members compete successfully in a global marketplace and set the worldwide standard for economic development strategy, as demonstrated by our CEDA Award winners.

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SEDC evaluated submissions across categories including business retention and expansion, business development, community development and community involvement. The CEDA Awards are presented annually at the SEDC Annual Conference, the Council’s largest event.

The 2024 conference brought together 620 professionals over three days to celebrate and promote new economic development throughout the American South.