American South Advantage Newsletter

Business Retention

& Expansion

at the Foundation of Growth

The goal of Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) programs is to create a favorable environment for growth.

Ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of our region hinges on our ability to retain and nurture existing businesses. At SEDC, we understand that fostering strong partnerships between enterprises and economic developers is key to sustaining and accelerating the impressive economic momentum of the American South.

In this edition of the SEDC Newsletter, we shine a spotlight on the immense value of Business Retention & Expansion. We will showcase best practices and celebrate success stories that solidify the American South's reputation as the world's premier destination for investment and economic development.

Join us at SEDC in our mission to drive economic excellence in the American South!

BR&E Insights & Spotlights

3 Tips for Business Retention & Expansion

The majority of new jobs are a result of existing business growth, thus capitalizing on the potential of your local economic base is critical to the success of your community.

Record-Breaking News

Member BR&E Success Stories

Great news comes from around

the region about Business

Retention & Expansion (BR&E).

Read spotlights of success stories within our SEDC network.

Leveraging Social Media for Business Retention and Expansion

Social media is a cost-effective

and readily accessible tool to bolster your BR&E marketing strategy.

SEDC States Recognized as Best-in-class by Area Development Magazine

The states considered the best

locations for doing business

according to an expert panel of

location consultants are the highest performers in more than a dozen categories upon which companies make their site selection decisions.

SEDC States Recognized for Workforce Development Programs

Having a workforce with the right skills is an integral part of being a Top State for Doing Business - that's why training programs are so important.

Young Professionals

are the future of economic development

SEDC’s Young Professionals bring passion and energy to everything they do to grow business and industry in their communities.

Tyler Chaffee, Marketing Specialist for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), is the chair of the dynamic group. “Most young professionals are willing and able to take on new responsibilities,” Tyler said. “They are looking for opportunities to take on larger roles within their organizations.” When it comes to business retention and expansion, these pros, often in their 20s, are eager to help find and retain new business for their regions. Young professionals are committed to all aspects of economic development.

The group met for a #YPCon at the 2023 SEDC Annual Conference to convene with site selectors, discuss economic development and career advancement, and strategize on how SEDC can best serve young professionals. The 2024 Young Professionals Conference will be in conjunction with the SEDC Annual Conference in Savannah, July 28-30. Register for the conference. Stay tuned for more exciting YP opportunities and events, as well!