Delaware prosperity partnership CEO Kurt Foreman appointed president of Ithaca Area Economic Development

Following an extensive national search led by Jorgenson Pace and guided by a search committee chaired by former board member Greg Hartz, Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) announced today that Kurt Foreman will join the organization as President in January 2026. Foreman brings more than three decades of economic development experience across the United States and a proven track record of attracting business investment to his new leadership role in the Finger Lakes region.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kurt to Ithaca , Tompkins County, and IAED,” said Jodi Lee Denman, Chair of the IAED Board of Directors. “His proven experience and leadership ability will help guide our organization as we continue to evolve and bolster the local economy.”

Since 2018, Foreman has led the Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP) as President and CEO, helping position the state as a premier business destination. Under his leadership, DPP attracted more than $3.5 billion in capital investment and supported the creation or retention of 11,000 jobs while strengthening Delaware’s business community and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

His extensive experience includes economic development leadership roles in Oklahoma, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and the Washington D.C. metro area. Foreman is also a proficient site selector, well versed in supporting companies with their location and expansion decisions. He was also formerly an executive recruiter with a leading global search firm supporting senior-level placements across industries.

A graduate of Franklin & Marshall College, Foreman earned his master’s degree in business from Wake Forest University.

Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) is a public-private partnership dedicated to fostering economic growth and prosperity in Tompkins County and the Southern Tier region. Through business attraction, retention, and expansion initiatives, IAED works to create quality jobs, support entrepreneurship, and enhance the region’s competitive position as a premier location for business investment and innovation.

Greg Hartz, who led the presidential search committee, said, “After a comprehensive search process, Foreman emerged as the ideal candidate to lead IAED into its next chapter. His strategic vision, collaborative approach, and proven ability to deliver results make him perfectly suited to advance economic development in Tompkins County and regionally.”

Foreman shared, “I’m excited to relocate to Tompkins County and join the highly competent IAED team. I look forward to supporting this vibrant community by helping businesses grow, thrive, and create quality employment through smart partnerships and innovative solutions. There’s so much energy here, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Foreman and his wife, Julie, have been married for over 35 years. They have four adult children and three grandchildren living across the country.