2026 Annual Meeting of the
Greater Columbus Economic Development Corporation

Join us on February 27 for the Annual Meeting of the Greater Columbus Economic Development Corporation as we celebrate the organization’s 50th Anniversary. This annual luncheon brings together business, civic, and community leaders to reflect on the people, partnerships, and decisions that have shaped economic development in Columbus and Bartholomew County over the past five decades.

The program will feature a moderated conversation led by EDC President Phil Wagner, who began his role in January 2026. The panel will include:

• Harold Force, EDC Board Chair in 1985 and 2008

• Julie Del Genio, EDC Board Chair in 2016 and 2017

• Fred Armstrong, former Mayor of Columbus from 1996 to 2011

Together, these longtime leaders will share reflections on pivotal moments in the organization’s history, lessons learned through periods of growth and change, and how those experiences continue to shape the EDC’s work today.

The Friday, February 27, 11:30 a.m. luncheon is open to the public; however, advance registration and tickets are required. Individual tickets are $85 and reserved tables of eight are available for $680.

Registration may be completed online through close of business on Monday, February 16, or until sold out. Find answers to frequently asked questions by clicking here.  

We hope you will join us for this special milestone as we reflect on 50 years of leadership, collaboration, and investment in our community’s future.

Media Contact: 
Kristen Goecker,
Director of Projects & Marketing, Greater Columbus EDC
kristen@columbusin.org | 513-515-4397

Event Contact:
Beth Bailey
info@columbusin.org | 812-378-7300 (Office)