The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is pleased to announce that Kreg Haney, senior manager of Economic Development, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Future Leader Award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and dedication to economic development.
Kreg Haney, senior manager of Economic Development, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
Kreg Haney has been a driving force behind initiatives that foster business expansion, attract investment, and create opportunities for long-term prosperity and quality of life. Through his vision and dedication, communities have not only grown but are at the cutting edge of the field and better positioned for the future.
“Strong economies are built by leaders like Kreg Haney who understand that lasting progress requires vision, trust, and a deep commitment to the places and people they serve,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC president and CEO. “We are thrilled to recognize Kreg Haney with the Future Leader Award. This honor highlights the impact of his work and provides an example for economic developers everywhere.”
As part of IEDC’s annual Industry Leaders program, the Future Leader Award recognizes individuals who push the boundaries of economic development and champion transformative solutions that create lasting prosperity. Honorees deliver forward-thinking strategies that not only address present economic challenges but also lay the groundwork for sustained success. Kreg Haney’s leadership serves as a model for professionals across the industry, demonstrating the power of innovation and strategic vision in shaping stronger, more vibrant communities.
“I’m deeply honored to receive this award from IEDC. Economic development has always been about making a real difference in people’s lives. One of the most fulfilling initiatives I’ve led was reframing retail attraction as a foundational economic development strategy in our rural region. By prioritizing retail growth, we strengthened local sales tax revenues, giving communities the financial capacity to reinvest in infrastructure, improve site readiness, and pursue long-term industrial recruitment,” said Haney. “Seeing rural towns gain the stability and confidence to compete for larger opportunities has been incredibly rewarding, and I remain committed to creating innovative strategies that strengthen our communities and economies for years to come.”
IEDC will formally celebrate Kreg Haney at the 2026 Leadership Summit, March 1-3 in Washington, D.C.
About The Choctaw Nation
The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States with more than 230,000 tribal members and 13,000-plus associates. This ancient people has an oral tradition dating back over 14,000 years. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, its historic reservation boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma, covering 10,923 square miles. The Choctaw Nation’s vision, “Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture,” is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity. For more information about the Choctaw Nation, its culture, heritage and traditions, please go to www.choctawnation.com.
