Forward Sumner Economic Partnership’s 2024 Summer Meeting

Forward Sumner Economic Partnership (FSEP) recently held its highly anticipated 2024 Summer Meeting at Foxland Event Center in Gallatin, bringing together key stakeholders, investors, and community leaders to celebrate the county’s economic progress and outline strategic initiatives for the future.

The event, which took place on August 7, was highlighted by the presence of Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and State Commissioner for Economic and Community Development Stuart McWhorter, underscoring the significance of Sumner County’s economic development efforts.

Economic Growth Highlights

FSEP President & CEO Chris Taylor presented impressive economic growth figures for Sumner County:

  • Job Growth: From 66,100 jobs in 2019 to 71,992 in 2023.
  • Capital Investments: Increased from $95.2 million in 2019 to $177.5 million in 2023.
  • Gross Regional Product (GRP): Grew from $6.3 billion in 2019 to $8.7 billion in 2023.
  • Sales Tax Revenues: Rose from $202.7 million in 2019 to $321.7 million in 2023.

These figures underscore the county’s robust economic development and the effectiveness of FSEP’s strategies.

Strategic Initiatives

FSEP unveiled several key initiatives aimed at further enhancing Sumner County’s economic landscape:

  • Community Development Infrastructure (CDI): Leveraging data-driven insights and partnerships to improve county infrastructure and community development.
  • Financial Literacy Resource Center: A collaboration with Wilson Bank & Trust and Banzai to provide comprehensive financial education resources to county residents.
  • Advanced Community Analytics: Partnering with Volunteer State Community College to develop interactive dashboards for labor market data visualization and career exploration.
  • Sumner CTE Insight SharePoint: A tool developed with Sumner County Schools to advance career and technical education, aligning programs with industry needs.
  • Workforce Development: Focusing on collaboration, skill development, and work-based learning opportunities to create a skilled and ready workforce.

Governor Lee praised Sumner County’s economic performance, stating, “Tennessee has the number one economy in the nation,” and applauded the county for creating “a place that is so attractive that people and businesses want to continue to relocate here.”

As Forward Sumner continues to spearhead economic development in the county, the organization remains focused on attracting new businesses, supporting existing ones, and fostering entrepreneurship. With a data-driven approach and strong community partnerships, Sumner County is well-positioned for continued growth and prosperity.

For more details on Forward Sumner’s event, visit Main Street Publications article.