Kirchhoff Earns Economic Development Council Honorary Life Membership

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) has announced that Mike Kirchhoff of Altamont has been awarded the 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 previously having earned 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. There are currently fewer than 100 HLMs worldwide.

"Earning this status is a testament to Mike's lifelong dedication to furthering economic development and supporting others in the field," said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. "Mike 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."

Kirchhoff shared, "I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from IEDC. Economic development has been a passion of mine for more than 35 years, 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 Kirchhoff 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 Kirchhoff has throughout his career.

About Mike Kirchhoff, CEcD, FM, HLM
Since 1989, Mike has led economic development efforts in metro, rural, utility, regional, and state government settings in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Iowa. His background includes substantial experience in business retention and expansion, marketing, downtown redevelopment, tourism, and entrepreneurship. During his career, Mike has led the response for more than 120 successful site location projects representing more than $2 billion in corporate investment and the creation or retention of nearly 20,000 jobs.

In his current role as a Key Account Executive with Ameren, he works with the company’s largest customers to address challenges and opportunities with an objective to increase jobs, investment, and consumption of utilities.

Mike completed three terms as a board member of the International Economic Development Council, twice serving as chair of the board’s Performance Oversight and Monitoring Committee and as a member of the Governance Committee. His background also includes leadership positions in several states’ economic development associations and local downtown redevelopment, regional marketing, tourism, chambers, and industrial development groups.

Mike has authored or edited multiple publications, articles, and guides for economic development, including the business retention manual for the International Economic Development Council and articles for Economic Development Review, the Economic Development Journal, PDI Developer, SIOR Report, and other publications and is a frequent speaker at conferences and workshops.

Since 2003, Mike has also worked to enhance economic development efforts in multiple states through his work as an economic development consultant in both metro and rural locations on diverse projects such as industrial base analysis, real estate development and reuse, urban economic development streamlining, and other topics.  With an expertise in organizational development, Mike has led three corporate mergers and led the accreditation process for several economic development organizations.