The Development Corporation of Abilene has been named a 2026 Economic Development Award winner by Business Facilities. According to a release from DCOA, the recognition places Abilene among the top-performing economic development organizations in the nation.
Business Facilities is an industry publication that tracks the “latest trends and insights on site selection, economic development, and investment opportunities.”
In their citation, the magazine recognized DCOA’s efforts in ensuring the industries it attracts to the region will have a workforce developed and ready for the future.
“To continue developing a reliable talent pipeline, the DCOA funds the NextU Program,” the award reads. “Developed in partnership with Abilene Independent School District, Wylie Independent School District, and the Big Country Society for Human Resource Management, NextU prepares students with industry-recognized certifications and real-world experience.”
The program connects classroom instruction to career opportunities with the collaboration of educators, employers and economic developers.
“NextU content is aligned with the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). In 2025, NextU celebrated the largest graduating class in its history, with 53 seniors completing industry-aligned programs,” they wrote. “The program also provides DCOA-funded scholarships.”
In their release, DCOA said the national recognition is a reflection of their commitment to supporting local companies and diversifying the Abilene economy.
“The DCOA partners with local companies to create jobs, expand the local tax base and drive new company investment,” they wrote.
This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: DCOA earns national honor partnering with ISDs to prep student careers
Reporting by Ronald W. Erdrich, Abilene Reporter-News / Abilene Reporter-News
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