How Economic Development Benefits Everyone in McMinn County

Every resident, business owner, and entrepreneur is affected by the efforts of the McMinn County Economic Development Agency (EDA). This organization manages several programs to help local companies grow while attracting new ones.

“While the EDA is business-focused, everyone benefits from economic growth,” says Lindsey Ferguson, Executive Director of the McMinn County EDA. “Our efforts bring new job opportunities, a larger tax base, and greater stability to the region through diverse investments.”

Learn more about what the EDA does and the ripple effects it sends through the community. Discover how this organization benefits residents and builds a bright future for Tennessee’s Overhill region. 

Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) Preserves Jobs 

BR&E is a core aspect of the EDA. Team members meet regularly with local companies to learn about their future plans and offer assistance where they can. These meetings range from check-ins with major employers to small businesses. Business retention efforts can prevent companies from leaving McMinn County or closing unexpectedly.

“Economic development involves a lot of problem-solving,” says Ferguson. “We constantly look for opportunities and solutions to help local businesses, allowing them to overcome hurdles. We are a partner that works alongside companies through every season.”

The EDA also supports expansion efforts. It helps existing companies learn about financing options and explore available properties, enabling them to grow. Expansion creates additional jobs for residents while fostering growth among businesses that have already chosen McMinn. 

Business Attraction Creates New Opportunities 

While the EDA is committed to supporting existing businesses, it also seeks new opportunities for McMinn County. Businesses looking to expand into Tennessee (or move within the state) can learn about the location advantages of the region. New businesses also create jobs for residents, diversifying the economy. Instead of relying on a handful of local employers, residents have a larger pool of companies to work for.

New businesses also bring in different industries, further stabilizing employment and the economy. If one industry suffers or one employer closes its doors, it won't affect all of McMinn County.

Workforce Development Helps Residents Build Careers

Several factors attract businesses to McMinn County, but the workforce is one of the best reasons for companies to move here. Not only does McMinn County have an ample workforce seeking new opportunities, but the EDA also continues to invest in training and development.

MCWorks is a new workforce development initiative by the EDA, which is paired with its annual Workforce Summit. The goal of these programs is to look ahead to future employment trends and ensure McMinn County residents have the skills they need to succeed.

“When a business considers McMinn County, we show off our workforce,” says Ferguson. “We highlight the existing skillsets of residents and demonstrate how local colleges develop training programs to prepare residents to enter new industries.”  

New industries can create career paths for McMinn County residents, allowing them to grow their skills and potential annual earnings. 

Greater Investment Leads to Higher Tax Revenue 

Every resident of McMinn County benefits from new and expanding businesses because they contribute to the tax base. Companies pay business taxes and property taxes, allowing McMinn County to fund local schools, improve infrastructure, and offer other services (like park facilities, libraries, and events). New career opportunities that offer higher-paying jobs also increase the tax base because McMinn County residents earn higher wages.

“McMinn County is a great place to live, with bike paths, boat ramps to the Hiwassee River, and festivals throughout the year,” says Ferguson. “This is possible because of the businesses that operate here. Economic development leads to more amenities and services for residents.”  

This is why everyone benefits from the EDA’s efforts. Kids running around during recess can enjoy tax-funded playground equipment, while retired residents can rest on public park benches.

Tourism Marketing Brings New People and Opportunities

In 2025, the EDA launched Discover McMinn, the tourism division of McMinn County. This program is designed to attract visitors to the region, bringing in new customers to downtown businesses. Tourism can also become a significant industry in McMinn County, with visitors driving the growth of new businesses that offer tours, experiences, and lodging.

In 2024, 147 million visitors spent $31.7 billion on tourism in Tennessee, leading to $3.3 billion in state and local tax revenue. In McMinn County, tourism spending reached $76.6 million in 2024, generating $3.3 million in local taxes.

Tourism also supports population growth. According to Destinations International, 14% of people choose to move to a place after visiting it. Today’s tourists exploring the Scoop Loop and visiting the Niota Depot could be your neighbors and coworkers in the future. 

Join the EDA to Learn About Its Programs

Every resident of McMinn County is affected by economic development, so it’s important to stay informed about the programs, services, and efforts aimed at growing business investment in the region. Keep up with the latest news to see what we’re working on and consider becoming a member. Your contribution can support growth in the region, bringing new companies and opportunities to your door.

Explore our membership tiers, which start at $250 annually for small business owners. Reap the benefits of economic development and watch your community grow.