Senator recognized for work on business growth, housing and transportation
CRIPPLE CREEK, Colo. — September 24, 2026 — The Economic Development Council of Colorado (EDCC) named Senator Matt Ball a 2026 Legislator of the Year at the EDIE Awards during the Drive|Lead|Succeed Conference in Cripple Creek. Senator Cleave Simpson also received the 2026 Legislator of the Year award. 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.
Ball was recognized for work on policies that affect Colorado’s business climate and growing communities. He co-sponsored legislation to extend the Colorado Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit and advanced a measure addressing local entertainment districts and retail activity.
As vice chair of the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee and a member of the Local Government and Housing Committee, Ball works on housing supply and regional connectivity. His earlier service as Denver’s director of policy, where he established the Roads to Recovery program, informs his approach to state and local challenges.
A fifth-generation Coloradan, Ball served four overseas deployments with the Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment, earned two Bronze Stars and continues to serve in the Army Reserve. He earned a law degree from Stanford Law School on the GI Bill.
“Senator Ball brings a practical understanding of how state policy affects employers and local communities,” said Kim Woodworth, EDCC Executive Director. “His attention to business tools, housing and transportation speaks to the needs economic developers see across Colorado.”
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.