IEDC recognizes Jim Fram for exceptional leadership and transformative contributions to economic development.
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is proud to announce that Jim Fram has been awarded the esteemed status of Honorary Life Member (HLM) in recognition of his unwavering commitment to excellence and enduring impact on the field of economic development.
To be considered for this honor, a candidate must meet rigorous criteria, including earning Fellow Member (FM) status, maintaining at least 10 years of continuous IEDC membership, and possessing at least 20 years of experience in economic development. Additionally, the candidate must have demonstrated exceptional achievements that have advanced the industry and served as a mentor, guiding others toward success.
"Earning this status is a testament to Jim Fram’s lifelong dedication to furthering economic development and supporting others in the field," said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. "Jim Fram exemplifies these qualities through his groundbreaking work and leadership, consistently pushing boundaries to create opportunities for economic growth, investment, and long-term prosperity. His guidance has left an indelible mark on the profession, inspiring others to make a lasting difference where they live and work."
Jim Fram shared, "I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from IEDC. Economic development has been a passion of mine for most of my adult life, and I’ve been privileged to work alongside numerous talented professionals who share that commitment. Together, we’ve strengthened communities, and I look forward to continuing this work and shaping what’s next for the profession."
IEDC will formally celebrate Jim Fram at the 2025 Leadership Summit, taking place February 23-25 in Washington, DC. This premier gathering provides economic development professionals with a space to explore cutting-edge strategies and boost leadership skills for today’s rapidly changing landscape. With dedicated tracks for every career stage, the event empowers attendees to make positive impacts—just as Jim Fram has throughout his career.
About Jim Fram
Jim Fram is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and a Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) through the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) with 30+ years of successful economic development and senior-level chamber of commerce management experience in Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Missouri.
Jim led the teams of two economic development organizations to accreditation by the International Economic Development Council (Tulsa, OK, and Hot Springs, AR). He also assisted in leading three Chambers of Commerce to Five Star Accreditation by the U. S. Chamber of Commerce (Lincoln, NE, Tulsa, OK, Hot Springs, AR).
He has served on the faculty at the Heartland Basic Economic Development Course and the Mid-South Basic Economic Development Course. He is a past Chair of the Oklahoma Governor’s Economic Development Team. He is an Honorary Life Member of the Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC) and a Fellow Member (FM) of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). He is also a frequent instructor, moderator, and guest speaker at numerous economic development and Chamber of Commerce organizations, conferences, and events across the country.
In January of 2018, he fulfilled a longtime dream and founded Community Growth Strategies, LLC., a consulting firm that focuses on assisting communities as well as regional economic development efforts and chambers of commerce. He works from his home base of Columbia, MO, where his wife, Kelli, is a faculty member for the Trulaske College of Business
at the University of Missouri as well as an independent travel advisor.
About IEDC
IEDC is the largest nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization for economic developers, bringing together nearly 4,500 professionals. Members work across cities, counties, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, and more to create jobs, drive growth, and build vibrant, resilient communities. IEDC offers education, resources, and connections that empower professionals to drive meaningful change in communities and regions.
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