The Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) has earned two international awards from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), spotlighting Tallahassee-Leon County as a leader in inclusive and innovative economic growth.
“These awards are a testament to the power of intentional collaboration, creativity, and community-driven economic development,” said Keith Bowers, Director of the Office of Economic Vitality. “We are proud to see our efforts to foster equity, entrepreneurship, and place-making recognized on an international stage.”
OEV was honored with a Gold Award in Real Estate Reuse & Development for SoMo Walls, a transformative redevelopment project located in the South Monroe corridor. SoMo Walls reimagined an underutilized property into a vibrant, mixed-use destination for art, business, and community gatherings, spurring economic growth, attracting private investment, and enhancing the cultural fabric of the area.
OEV provided over $1.75 million in gap funding to complete the project and worked closely with the project team to reach economic impact objectives. As a result, the project exceeded the anticipated goals with 47 permanent jobs, nearly $1.8 million in annual income and $6 million in ongoing economic benefits and a 35% inclusion goal for Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprises (MWSBE).
“We would not have been able to fully realize our vision for SoMo Walls without the support of OEV. Their assistance came at a crucial time, when inflation and rising construction costs threatened the project’s future. From the start, this has been a community project, and it is an honor to accept this award on behalf of the entire community.,” said Bugra Demirel, owner of the SoMo Walls Project. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who believed in and supported our vision along the way. This recognition affirms that the public investment in our project was not only vital, but also a wise policy choice—one that continues to deliver lasting value for Tallahassee.”
In addition to this honor from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), SoMo Walls has earned widespread recognition, including the 2024 Urban Land Institute Award of Excellence, the 2022 Merit Award from the Tallahassee branch of the American Institute of Architects, and a feature in Florida/Caribbean Architect magazine.
“Across all of our small-business ecosystem and beyond, these recognitions prove that strategic public investment paired with private leadership delivers tangible results—jobs, opportunity, and momentum for our community,” said Leon County Commission Chairman and Blueprint IA Chair Brian Welch. “I am proud of OEV for their lasting work to grow and support local businesses.”
OEV also received a Bronze Award for Economic Equity & Inclusion for the Black Business Expo Tallahassee (BBET), which in 2025 saw a 22 percent increase in attendance, drawing 279 participants, 72 local businesses, 12 agencies, and 23 sponsors. The event generated 88 on-site vendor registrations with the City of Tallahassee and Leon County Procurement, awarded $16,000 in grants to fuel small business growth, and hosted the inaugural Direct-Connect networking event linking OEV-certified Minority Business Enterprises with prime contractors in the construction industry.
Office of Economic Vitality Internationally Recognized for SoMo Walls Project added by Staff on
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When are we going to stop putting Gen Z folks (below age 28) into decision making positions in our City Government?
This taxpayer will patronize SoMo as many times as the Griffin Heights food store – zero
Self congratulations for mediocrity. An establishment tradition.
How many Businesses are located there, what is the average Rent and how many Businesses need Government Assistance to keep the doors open?
“…35% inclusion goal for Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprises (MWSBE)”
So, a quota was met and international socialists are overjoyed at our government involvement with managing private enterprise. Oh, joy.