(Richardson, TX) – The Richardson Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Richardson, the Richardson Rotary Club, and the Richardson East Rotary Club, held its annual Economic Development Growth and Entrepreneurship (EDGE) awards on Nov. 7. The event celebrated cutting-edge Richardson businesses, initiatives, and individuals who drive economic impact and foster community engagement.

"The EDGE Awards are a meaningful way for us to celebrate the innovative spirit and dedication of our local business community," said Richardson Mayor Bob Dubey. "They honor not only the outstanding businesses and individuals shaping our local economy, but also the community commitment that drives their success. These winners exemplify the collaboration, resilience, and vision that keep Richardson on the cutting edge, and we are proud to recognize their achievements."

Among the awards given during the evening was the Legacy Award, presented to Fujitsu. This company has played a pivotal role in shaping Richardson’s business landscape. In the 1990s, the company developed an expansive 845,000-square-foot campus, establishing a key presence in the city. In 2008, it further demonstrated its commitment by relocating its North American headquarters to Richardson. In addition, Fujitsu has served as a long-time corporate partner to the community with contributions that have bolstered local economic growth, created jobs, and strengthened Richardson’s reputation as a thriving tech hub.

“Fujitsu’s legacy of innovation and collaboration continues to have a lasting impact on Richardson, and we are proud to recognize its Richardson team as an integral part of our community,” said Richardson City Manager Don Magner. “Fujitsu has been a vital contributor to community leadership programs, economic development efforts, and remains one of our most valued corporate citizens. It embodies the qualities we honor and uphold with our annual Legacy Award.”

Other awards presented during the evening include:

Communiuty Favorite Award
Lone Chimney Mercantile was given the Community Favorite Award for its unique charm, locally inspired gifts and vibrant exterior. The business is a favorite among visitors and has enhanced The CORE District’s Downtown neighborhood.

Economic Catalyst Award
State Farm received the Economic Catalyst Award. The company has contributed more than $2 million in Good Neighbor Citizenship grants and sponsorship events like the Richardson Corporate Challenge.

The Marketplace Leadership Award
The Marketplace Leadership Award was given to Fast Photonics for its role as a leading Richardson-based manufacturer of high-speed optical transceivers. Fast Photonics helps position the city as a hub for optical and photonic innovation.

Entrepreneurial Spirit Award
Nexrage Studios garnered the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award for its groundbreaking work in financial technology and artificial intelligence. Nexrage is particularly known for its patented fraud solutions and its support for early stage startups via the Nexus Initiative.

Technology Innovation Award
Dr. David Lary of UT Dallas received the Technology Innovation Award for his pioneering work in holistic sensing and for founding the Center of Multi-Scale Integrated Intelligent Interactive Sensing (MINTS) at The IQ®HQ.

The Revitalization Excellence Award
The Revitalization Excellence Award was given to Catalyst Urban Development’s Belt & Main project. This project is credited with revitalizing The CORE District’s Downtown neighborhood by transforming an underutilized property into a vibrant, mixed-use destination.

The Commercial Development Achievement Award
The Commercial Development Achievement Award was awarded to Collins Crossing owner Goldenrod Companies, for achieving 92,000 square feet in new leases since January and raising the occupancy to 93 percent. The investment will also included $2 million in capital improvements.

About the City of Richardson

Located just north of Dallas, Richardson is a culturally diverse community offering a blend of urban amenities with exceptional suburban service. Richardson benefits from being home to The University of Texas at Dallas, a research powerhouse. UT Dallas’ influence is felt in the presence of dynamic businesses in sectors such as advanced additive manufacturing, biotechnology, finance, software development, and R&D, as well as hosting incubators for entrepreneurial start-ups. Richardson’s thriving, innovation-focused economy creates numerous opportunities while also supporting a historically stable local government capable of delivering high quality-of-life and exemplary services for a diverse array of neighborhoods and multi-modal transportation options, enabling easy access to the entire DFW Metroplex. The community is regularly recognized in third-party rankings as one of the best places in the nation to live, raise a family, start a career, go to school, buy a home, and retire.

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