COVINGTON, KY — The City of Covington is proud to announce the introduction of the inaugural COV-laborator Award, a new addition to the City’s Authenti-CITY Awards, recognizing the power of collaboration in driving economic development across the region. 

The new COV-laborator Award builds on the Covington Economic Development Department’s tradition of honoring the collective efforts that fuel the City’s continued growth and success. 

Economic development is a team sport. Covington collaborates with 32 nonprofit partners throughout the region on a wide range of initiatives, including business attraction and retention, workforce development, placemaking, and community engagement. As part of the inaugural recognition, each partner organization received a COV-laborator certificate signed by Mayor Ron Washington, along with a plant symbolizing growth and a shared commitment to the future, adorned with the message: “Let’s grow together.” 

The City also named its first-ever COV-laborator of the Year: Will Weber, CEO of Southbank Partners. 

Southbank Partners was selected for its impactful contributions to several transformative regional initiatives, including Riverfront Commons—often referred to as “the front porch of the south”—a 20-mile trail connecting eight Northern Kentucky riverfront cities; Covington Plaza, home to the iconic “Love the Cov” sculpture; the Madison Mile kiosks; and the Latonia Corridor study. 

The City extends its gratitude to all of its nonprofit partners for their ongoing dedication and partnership.