Dallas, TX – May 5, 2026 – Dallas Economic Development Corporation (Dallas EDC), an independent nonprofit focused on driving business investment, job creation, and inclusive growth, announced the appointments of Emily Stoehr as Business Growth Director and Jacob vanWorkum as Business Retention Specialist.
Business retention and business growth are essential drivers of economic prosperity for the City of Dallas. Historically, approximately eighty percent of all local economic growth originates from existing businesses. In recognition of this, Dallas EDC is committed to ensuring that every business in Dallas maintains a meaningful connection with the City. As part of their dedicated focus on Dallas-based businesses, they will provide access to a Rapid Response Team composed of city officials who can promptly address challenges any business may encounter. Additionally, they aim to support businesses as they expand by offering assistance in workforce development and training, access to relevant data, and strategic connections.
“These additions strengthen our ability to execute our data-driven, relationship-focused approach to economic development,” said Linda McMahon, CEO of Dallas EDC. “Emily brings deep experience building strategic partnerships with major companies, and Jacob’s analytical expertise will enhance how we support and retain businesses across Dallas.”
Emily Stoehr is an accomplished enterprise growth leader with two decades of experience across the technology and commercial aviation sectors. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Commercial, North America at Accelya, where she led strategic partnerships with major airline clients.
Jacob vanWorkum is an economic development professional with experience advancing business retention and expansion through data-driven strategy and cross-sector collaboration. His background also includes experience with Dallas College and Boeing
About Dallas Economic Development Corporation
Dallas Economic Development Corporation (Dallas EDC) is a nonprofit organization established by the City of Dallas to drive economic growth and long-term prosperity. Its mission is to promote Dallas as a globally competitive business destination that fosters economic opportunities for all members of the city. Through strategic leadership, Dallas EDC accelerates investment and economic development by fostering job creation, supporting business expansion, and advancing high-impact real estate projects. The organization champions initiatives that expand access to opportunity, ensuring sustainable growth across the city. As the epicenter of growth for the North Texas economy, Dallas stands as a beacon of innovation and enterprise. The Dallas EDC actively promotes the city’s unparalleled strengths, reinforcing its status as an ideal environment for businesses to thrive and communities to prosper. Learn more at www.dallasedc.com.
Submitted by Paul Von Wupperfeld, Communications Director, Dallas EDC
