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The Imperial Valley Economic Development Corporation (IVEDC) hosted its annual dinner on January 29 at the Elks Lodge in Brawley, bringing together investors, business leaders, and community members. The event provided an opportunity to reflect on IVEDC’s accomplishments over the past year and discuss plans for continued economic growth in the region. Attendees also engaged in networking and shared perspectives on opportunities for investment and development in the Imperial Valley.
Efrain Silva, chair of the Imperial Valley Economic Development Corporation (IVEDC), expressed optimism about the region’s economic prospects, including new lithium development projects. “I’m very happy to serve my second year as chairman of the IVEDC. The mission of our organization, to bring prosperity, economic development, and jobs, is working,” Silva said. “The opportunities coming to the Imperial Valley, from energy projects to lithium development, will be very gratifying, and we intend to keep moving forward next year.”
Silva acknowledged challenges, including trade uncertainties and regulatory hurdles. “Life is never easy. There are always challenges, and our job is to overcome them,” he said. He noted that several major projects, including lithium extraction and energy facilities, are moving forward, though sometimes slower than anticipated. Silva also emphasized cross-border collaboration, particularly in education. “Working on MOUs with universities in Mexicali will benefit both sides and help nurture a workforce we sometimes lack, like engineering programs. Proximity to quality education across the border ultimately benefits everyone,” he said.
Tim Kelley highlighted the growth and success of Imperial County’s industry clusters, noting that efforts to attract companies through trade shows, conferences, and direct outreach are paying off. This year, IVEDC is managing 37 projects, conducting over 26 site visits, and submitting 18 job creation applications. The Jobs First Initiative alone could generate more than $42 billion in local impact, while Imperial County’s broader potential reaches nearly $100 billion. Kelley emphasized workforce development programs, including paid internships for students, partnerships with local colleges, and state-subsidized training for more than 70 employers, as key to preparing residents for emerging jobs in data centers, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Kelley also outlined IVEDC’s community impact efforts, from revolving loans totaling over $650,000 to brownfield remediation grants and expanding broadband access in underserved areas. The organization has distributed laptops and provided digital training to students, seniors, and foster youth, helping bridge the digital divide. Kelley highlighted upcoming economic events, trade shows, and international delegations to further promote Imperial County, including the California Economic Summit and a delegation led by the French ambassador. IVEDC continues to support local businesses through grants, technical assistance, and project development in clean energy, lithium recycling, agriculture, and 3D printing, positioning the region for long-term economic growth.
Kelley recognized Beyond Borders Gazette for being an important media partner and for the 10th anniversary celebration.
The evening’s awards celebrated individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact in the Imperial Valley. Investor of the Year, sponsored by BHE Renewables, was awarded to AT&T’s John Heffernan, presented by Timothy E. Kelley and Alma Silva. Partner of the Year, sponsored by RICK Engineering, went to California Jobs First–SDSU Foundation’s John McMillan, presented by Kelley. Project of the Year, sponsored by the Employment Training Panel, recognized Earthrise Nutritionals’ Takaaki Ono, presented by Sean Wilcock. The Chairperson’s Award, sponsored by Procopio, honored the Mexican Consulate’s Rocío Vázquez Álvarez, presented by Efrain Silva. Finally, the Legacy of Service Award, sponsored by SoCalGas, was presented to Buz Schott, presented by Tom DuBose and Laura McDonald.
