A New Chapter in National Leadership

We’re thrilled to share that David Ponraj, CEO and Founder of Economic Impact Catalyst (EIC), has been appointed to the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Board of Directors for a two-year term beginning January 1, 2026. His nomination was approved at the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit, Michigan.

This appointment recognizes David’s national leadership in helping economic development organizations strengthen their support for small businesses and entrepreneurs. As both a founder and practitioner, David brings a deep understanding of how data, technology, and community partnerships can drive inclusive economic growth.

A Vision for Modern Economic Development

“I am honored to join the International Economic Development Council Board of Directors at such a pivotal moment for our profession,” said Ponraj. “Economic development is evolving, and we have an opportunity to reimagine what’s possible—fueling innovation, entrepreneurship, and shared prosperity in communities around the world.”

In his role at IEDC, David will help shape strategy for the profession’s leading organization, supporting 5,000 members globally. His focus will reflect his long-standing commitment to entrepreneurship as a pathway to opportunity—especially for underrepresented founders and small business owners.

Entrepreneur. Strategist. Catalyst.

Under David’s leadership, Economic Impact Catalyst has grown into a national platform supporting 100+ ecosystem partners across 35 states, helping governments and organizations use technology to expand opportunity for small businesses.

Through EIC’s purpose-built software for small business program management, organizations are streamlining operations, coordinating referrals, and tracking outcomes—all with the goal of helping entrepreneurs succeed.

As a first-generation immigrant and entrepreneur, David’s journey fuels his belief in the power of opportunity and his drive to ensure that every community has the infrastructure to support its small business owners.

“We are thrilled to welcome David Ponraj to IEDC’s 2026 Board of Directors,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “David’s experience and commitment to the economic development profession have prepared him well for this new leadership role.”

Recognized Leadership and Impact

David’s contributions have been recognized nationally through Titan 100 CEO (2024), Business Observer's 40 Under 40 (2021), and as host of Breaking Down Barriers, a podcast highlighting changemakers advancing entrepreneurship and community development

These experiences continue to inform EIC’s mission and products—helping cities, regions, and ecosystem builders create measurable, equitable impact.

We’re proud to see David’s leadership recognized at the national level and look forward to continuing our mission of helping communities harness entrepreneurship as a catalyst for economic growth.

About IEDC

The International Economic Development Council is the world’s largest association for economic developers, representing members in government, non-profit, education, and private-sector organizations worldwide. For more information, visit www.iedconline.org.

This appointment reflects David’s leadership in advancing entrepreneurship-led economic development and his commitment to creating more inclusive, data-driven ecosystems that empower small businesses to thrive.

“Economic development is evolving, and we have an opportunity to reimagine what’s possible—fueling innovation, entrepreneurship, and shared prosperity in communities around the world,” said Ponraj. “I’m honored to join the IEDC Board at such a pivotal moment for our profession.”

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