REDMOND, WA – The City of Redmond, Experience Redmond, and OneRedmond received an Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for their Geek Out Gold, You Stay We Pay program.
"We are honored to receive this award," said Redmond Mayor Angela Birney. "The success of the Geek Out Gold program during the pandemic is a testament to the strength and resilience of our community. It demonstrates that by working together we can create positive impacts.”
The program received the award in the Innovation Programs and Initiatives category for utilizing $50,000 of lodging tax funds to distribute $100 business vouchers for guests staying two nights or more in Redmond hotels. The two-month return on investment in the program’s first year amounted to 1,550 new hotel room stays with a cumulative economic impact for the hotels and hospitality industry of $268,750.
CEO of OneRedmond Kristina Hudson echoed Mayor Birney and said, “The success of the Geek Out Gold program exemplifies the power of partnerships and collaborations. By working together to support our hotels and small businesses, we were able to achieve an impact that truly made a difference during the darkest days of the pandemic.”
The You Stay We Pay program earned regional and national news spotlights for the unique efforts used to generate support for local businesses during the pandemic. OneRedmond also received a bronze award for the extensive pandemic recovery work they completed through OneEastside SPARK, focused on providing tailored small business recovery support throughout the 23 cities and towns in East King County.
“The Experience Redmond program is pleased to promote our city’s incredible attractions and activities, which includes our local restaurants, hotels, and many small businesses,” said Tourism Manager for Experience Redmond Peter Klauser. “It was amazing to see how Redmond residents and visitors came together to support our local community by participating in the Geek Out Gold promotion.”
About Redmond, WA - Located 15 miles east of Seattle, Redmond is situated in the picturesque Sammamish Valley at the north end of Lake Sammamish. It is home to Microsoft and Nintendo of America and is world-renowned as the region's hub for technological innovations. It is also home to expansive parks, endless trails, and access to outdoor activities and Redmond Town Center with more than 100 shops, restaurants, and entertainment experiences to explore. For more information on Redmond’s economic development efforts and partners, visit redmond.gov/ED.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jill E. Smith, Communications Manager
jesmith@redmond.gov, 425-556-2448
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