Megan Delgado, Senior Project Manager at the North Louisiana Economic Partnership (NLEP), has been announced as a recipient of the 2025 Economic Development 40 Under 40 Award, the biennial award recognizing rising stars under 40 years old in the economic development industry.
The awards program is hosted by Development Counsellors International (DCI), a New York-based integrated marketing firm that works with economic development and travel organizations around the globe, and Jorgenson Pace, Inc, a leading national executive search firm serving organizations in non-profit, economic and community development industries. An independent selection committee of six economic development leaders and site selection consultants evaluated nominations based on the demonstration of strong leadership, commitment and innovation every day in the workplace.
“Economic development is a purpose-driven field that shapes communities worldwide, and young professionals are at the heart of that impact,” said Julie Curtin, president of DCI’s economic development practice. “These 40 rising stars are driving change through their innovation, commitment, and leadership. Their contributions are already making a difference, and I’m excited to see how they continue to shape the industry in the years to come.”
“Megan is one of the most talented and detailed oriented project managers I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Her tenacity and work ethic are second to none,” says Justyn Dixon, President and CEO of North Louisiana Economic Partnership. “This combination makes her an invaluable asset to not only NLEP, but our entire region. Congratulations Megan, we are very proud of you!”
Megan Delgado is a Senior Project Manager for NLEP’s Business Development Program, where she oversees the timely completion and successful submission of responses to requests for proposals. She also plays a key role in strengthening NLEP’s project management support for potential prospects.
With a strong background in quality control, process improvement, and project development, Megan brings a detail-oriented and results-driven approach to every project. She holds certifications as a Six Sigma Green Belt and Lean Practitioner, using her expertise to enhance efficiency and streamline operations within NLEP.
Megan earned her MBA in Project Management from Louisiana State University Shreveport and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Midwestern State University. She is currently working toward earning her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and will begin the International Economic Development Council’s (IEDC) Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) certification program in Fall 2025.
As the economic development industry continues to evolve, these emerging leaders are rising to meet new challenges with expertise and innovation,” said Todd Jorgenson, managing director and principal of Jorgenson Pace, Inc. “Congratulations to this year’s 40 honorees—your leadership is making a lasting impact on both your communities and the industry at large.”
Award winners were announced Sunday at a reception hosted by DCI and Jorgenson at the Capital Hilton in Washington, D.C. The ceremony was held in conjunction with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) 2025 Leadership Summit, the only conference held exclusively for Certified Economic Developers and senior managers in the profession.
For more information on the 40 Under 40 awards program and this year’s winners, visit https://aboutdci.com/insights/40-under-40/.