Front Range leader honored for decades of employer growth, entrepreneurship and mentorship
CRIPPLE CREEK, Colo. — September 24, 2026 — The Economic Development Council of Colorado (EDCC) presented its 2026 Economic Development Achievement Award to Clif Harald at the EDIE Awards during the Drive|Lead|Succeed Conference in Cripple Creek. This year’s awards hold special significance as EDCC celebrates its 50th anniversary, honoring major milestones and spotlighting the visionary programs that keep Colorado’s economy thriving and resilient for the future.
Across more than two decades leading economic development organizations in Boulder, Broomfield and Longmont, Harald has helped strengthen the Front Range economy. A co-founder and former leader of the Boulder Economic Council, he supported major corporate campus developments and expansions involving employers including Google, Trimble, Emerson/Micro Motion, Ball Aerospace, Pfizer and AGC Biologics.
Harald also advised hundreds of startups and growing companies across aerospace, bioscience, technology and natural products. His work helped build connections and resources for ventures including Justin’s, SomaLogic, Zayo, LogRhythm, SolidFire and Meati.
His service to the profession includes leading the Metro Denver EDC Professionals group, presenting at EDCC and IEDC conferences, supporting professional certification and mentoring emerging leaders through EDCC. In 2021, he developed and taught a graduate-level economic development course for CU Boulder’s Outdoor Recreation Economy program.
“Clif’s influence can be seen in the companies he helped grow and the professionals he has helped guide,” said Kim Woodworth, EDCC Executive Director. “His commitment to employers, entrepreneurs and mentorship has made a lasting contribution to Colorado economic development.”
About the EDIE Awards & EDCC
Hosted by the Economic Development Council of Colorado (EDCC), the EDIE Awards recognize the people, businesses, communities, and partnerships that drive economic development across Colorado. Marking EDCC’s 50th anniversary, this year’s awards celebrate five decades of impact while highlighting the essential programs that keep our state’s economy strong. Looking ahead, EDCC and its members remain committed to driving Colorado’s economic growth—one built on innovation, shared prosperity, and collaboration.