Commerce Assistant Secretary to Serve on IEDC Board of Directors

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that Commerce Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The two-year term will begin January 1, 2026.

“Assistant Secretary Godinez’s election to the IEDC board truly is a win for Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “His strong leadership and expertise will ensure our state is at the forefront of national economic development conversations, positioning us to attract investments, create jobs and strengthen communities across the state.”

Godinez was confirmed by the IEDC board during the organization’s annual conference in Detroit on Sunday.

As a member of the board of directors, Godinez will help shape national and global strategies for economic growth, while bringing Kansas’ priorities and perspectives to the table. His role will give Kansas a stronger voice in national discussions on community development, workforce readiness, rural prosperity and infrastructure investment. The position will open doors for Kansas communities to access best practices, strategic partnerships and funding opportunities that will accelerate local projects.

Godinez brings deep experience leading statewide initiatives that drive both economic vitality and quality of life. In his role at the Department of Commerce, he oversees programs such as Kansas Main Street, Community Development Block Grants, the Office of Rural Prosperity and the Office of Broadband Development — initiatives that have revitalized downtowns, expanded high-speed internet access, improved housing and strengthened community resilience.

“I am honored by the confidence the IEDC board has placed in me,” Assistant Secretary Matt Godinez said. “This appointment is not just a professional milestone — it’s an opportunity to amplify Kansas’ success stories, connect our communities with national expertise, and bring home strategies that will help us compete and thrive in a rapidly changing economy.”

The IEDC is the largest nonprofit membership organization for economic developers, connecting leaders from the public, private, academic and nonprofit sectors to advance equitable and sustainable growth.

For more information about IEDC and its board of directors, visit www.iedconline.org.