When the Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) for Memphis and Shelby County handed out its 2025 awards Oct. 9, it was more than a celebration of capital investment and job creation. It was also a tribute to the visionaries, risk-takers and community builders whose work is reshaping the economic narrative of Memphis from the ground up.
Held at the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms, the third annual EDGE Economic Development & Community Recognition Awards Breakfast brought together regional officials, corporate executives and small business owners to celebrate partnerships that drive growth across Memphis and Shelby County.
“Our honorees are investing in today and building a foundation for long-term prosperity,” said EDGE President and CEO Joann Massey. “Their vision, leadership and commitment show how working together fuels economic progress for all.”
Among the 16 awards presented were names familiar to TSD readers — grassroots entrepreneurs, cultural curators and local champions whose impact radiates far beyond boardrooms and spreadsheets.
Trap Fusion’s Jason Gardner: Feeding the soul of the city
When Jason Gardner, co-owner of Trap Fusion, stepped to the podium to accept the Small Business Impact Award, the room was still digesting breakfast. But what followed was a stirring sermon on what it really means to be a small business owner in Memphis.
With visible emotion, Gardner detailed how a $20,000 EDGE loan became a launchpad for more than $2.3 million in sales at the Whitehaven eatery. It’s provided more than 70 jobs and has launched a mission far deeper than just food.
“We wanted to provide healthy food options in the inner city,” Gardner told the crowd. “We don’t cook with pork. We don’t cook with salt. We’re in a food desert, and we wanted to make a difference.”
But Trap Fusion is also a place for second chances. As Gardner accepted the award, at his side was his colleague and business partner, Julian.
“Julian did 10 years in prison. He came to me from a halfway house. Now he’s my right-hand man, my kitchen manager, my business partner,” Gardner said. “This is what boots on the ground looks like.”
Mariah’s Sugar Rush: Sweet hustle, straight from the heart
At just 10 years old, Mariah Shield is already learning what it takes to build a brand and, more importantly, how to dream big.
The founder of Mariah’s Sugar Rush received EDGE’s Kidpreneur of the Year Award, earning a standing ovation as she stepped shyly to the mic.
“It feels really good,” she said, clutching the award. “I just want to say thank you for your love and support. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for me.”
Mariah’s idea came out of a simple request and a “no.”
“I always wanted ice cream after school,” she told TSD. “But my mom said we didn’t have the money to get ice cream every day. So I said, ‘I’ll make my own.’”
That spark led to lemonade nachos, Kool-Aid pickles, hot dogs and a rolling dessert truck that serves local schools and events. Her mother, Kristina Shields, helps with logistics, but the ideas? Those are all Mariah.
“We work together,” Kristina said. “She dreams it up. I help do the research. And now we’re showing other kids that dreams really can come true.”
Cynthia Daniels & Co.: Building culture, platform by platform
Ever since choosing Memphis to build her empire 16 years ago, Cynthia Daniels has become synonymous with some of the most talked about events in Memphis: Black Restaurant Week. Elixir. Top 40 Under 40.
This year, EDGE honored Daniels with a Culture Maker Award, recognizing her impact as a connector of Black businesses, creators and customers.
“I’m a Memphian by choice,” Daniels said. “I moved here from Atlanta in 2009 and only planned to stay two years. But Memphis transformed my life. It gave me space to start something.”
Now, through curated events, vendor expos and brand activations, Daniels’ company has funneled millions in revenue toward local Black-owned businesses while uplifting voices that too often go unheard.
“Economic development also thrives through culture and connection,” she said. “I’m just thankful to be doing the work and to be doing it here.”
Darrell Cobbins: Honored for opening doors
If there’s a quiet architect of opportunity in Memphis’ business landscape, Darrell Cobbins may well be it.
Honored with the Chairman’s Award for his longtime leadership in commercial real estate and economic development, Cobbins took the moment to reflect on the journey and on how opening doors for others can shape generations.
Twenty-four years ago, he became the first Black professional in Memphis hired into commercial brokerage at what is now Cushman & Wakefield. That chance, he said, changed his life and shaped his calling.
“When you have that opportunity, open the door,” Cobbins said. “Let that person show what they can do. Maybe 25 years from now, they’ll be the one up here receiving this award.”
A nod to a giant: Fred Smith’s enduring legacy
Though much of the morning celebrated small businesses and community advocates, the Lifetime Achievement Award belonged posthumously to Fred Smith, founder of FedEx and one of the city’s most transformative figures.
Richard Smith, who succeeded his father as president and CEO of FedEx, was traveling out of the country but delivered remarks via video.
“FedEx and our family have invested heavily in this community because we love it,” Richard Smith said. “And because we believe in it.”
Massey put it plainly: “He didn’t just build a company. He built a movement.”
Honoring a region in motion
In total, EDGE presented 16 awards recognizing achievements across industries from manufacturing and real estate to journalism and civic leadership. Among them:
- Economic Impact Project of the Year: AAON Inc., for bringing quality jobs and advanced manufacturing to the region.
- Leadership Award: Richard W. Smith, CEO of FedEx, and William B. Dunavant III, honored for decades of visionary leadership.
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Frederick W. Smith, founder of FedEx.
- Small Business Impact Awards: Trap Fusion and Hard Times Deli, both recipients of EDGE’s Small Business Loan Program and now community anchors.
- Culture Maker Awards: Joanna Crangle and the staff of Memphis Business Journal, alongside Cynthia Daniels, for elevating Memphis’ identity through storytelling and entrepreneurship.
- Kidpreneur of the Year: Mariah Shield, founder of Mariah’s Sugar Rush.
- Economic Development Collaborator Award: Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development, for its work in supporting regional projects.
- Regional Economic Development Agency of the Year: Cushman & Wakefield, honored for advancing site development and regional growth.
- Marketing Campaign Champion: Bartlett Chamber of Commerce, led by John Threadgill.
- Awards of Appreciation: Wepfer Marine, Hyosung HICO, and KTG USA, for their ongoing contributions to local job growth and economic vitality.
- Chairman’s Award: Darrell Cobbins, for decades of leadership, mentorship, and impact in Memphis commercial real estate and community development.
In closing remarks, EDGE Chair Al Bright Jr. reminded attendees that the work of building economic strength is a shared responsibility.
“Economic development isn’t abstract,” Bright said. “It’s new jobs, new investments and new opportunities that improve lives and build stronger communities.”
