Arkansas Economic Development Commission

AEDC's "Why Arkansas?" video showcases executives from Stephens, Dillard's Inc., Walmart, Apptegy, SIG SAUER, Inc., and Fiocchi of America discussing why operating in Arkansas is good for business.? Watch here:?https://lnkd.in/g9m235m7

Our foot is firmly on the gas pedal in Arkansas. ? We have record high employment and record high civilian labor force totals in Arkansas. Our economy is growing, and we have companies that are expanding operations or planting new operations around the state. ? Under the leadership of Governor Sanders, we’re focusing on the three Ps: Product, People, and Power. We’ve made great strides in these, and I look forward to the continued success of these efforts. ? Today was a great opportunity to highlight the successes we’ve had during the Arkansas Economic Development Foundation Luncheon. ? I had the honor of introducing Governor Sanders during the luncheon and participating in the signing of her signature Arkansas ACCESS legislation. ? It was also a privilege to interview Albemarle Corporation CEO and Chairman Kent Masters about the lithium industry and his company’s operations in south Arkansas. It was an enlightening talk, and I appreciate Kent for taking the time to talk with a room of our state leaders. ? The Arkansas Economic Development Foundation is an important part of our economic development success in the Natural State. Thanks to Gus Vratsinas and the AEDF Board for their leadership, as well as the leadership of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission Council. ? Thank you to everyone who attended the Arkansas Economic Development Foundation Luncheon and for supporting its important work.

Company executives, economic developers, and state leaders gathered today to celebrate Arkansas’ economic momentum at the Arkansas Economic Development Foundation Luncheon. The Arkansas Economic Development Foundation plays a significant role in our state’s economic development success. We’re able to be more competitive and win projects because of the funding and support provided by the foundation. Thanks to Gus Vratsinas, Chairman of the Arkansas Economic Development Foundation, for his leadership of the foundation and for organizing another great luncheon. We’re fortunate to have great leaders, like Governor Sarah Sanders, who recognize the importance of investing in our state – from infrastructure to education and more – to propel Arkansas into a brighter future. Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald is helping Arkansas “keep its foot on the gas” by being a champion for business in our state. Today, Secretary McDonald held a fireside chat with Albemarle Corporation CEO and Chairman Kent Masters, discussing the future of the lithium industry in Arkansas. It was great hearing from Mr. Masters and learning more about this important resource. Thank you to everyone who attended today’s luncheon and has supported the foundation – we couldn’t do what we do without you!

Arkansas-based company AdFury.ai publicly launched today at the Adobe Summit in Las Vegas. Headquartered in Northwest Arkansas, the company "makes it simpler to create and deploy image and video ads in retail media networks, using AI-powered software to help major retailers, brands and agencies drive sales with more relevant ads." “Congratulations to the leadership team of AdFury.ai on the launch of their company at the Adobe Summit,” said Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “Arkansas is a launching pad for successful entrepreneurs, as the AdFury.ai’s founders have proven before. We look forward to their continued success in building their company and creating new opportunities for Arkansans.” AdFury.ai | Eric Howerton | JS (John Scott) Bull | Chris Bahn

Congratulations to AEDC Grants Manager Matthew S. on earning his Professional Community and Economic Developers (PCED) certification. Matthew is one of four Arkansas economic developers to recently earn the PCED certification. "The PCED is a national certification that signals to peers and employers that you have the knowledge, skills, and expertise that meets or exceeds standards in the field of community and economic development," according to the Community Development Institute. Community Development Institute (CDI) Central

Companies – from aviation leaders like Dassault to defense firms like Lockheed Martin – chose Arkansas because they know all the elements for business success can be found here.

Companies – from aviation leaders like Dassault to defense firms like Lockheed Martin – chose Arkansas because they know all the elements for business success can be found here.

The Arkansas Rural Development Commission recently received four new members: Andrea Allen, Jonathan Baugh, Wendell Grubb and Dondie Guess. Jonathan Baugh and Mike Smith were sworn in to the Arkansas Rural Development Commission by Deputy Secretary of State Mat Pitsch. All other Commissioners have been sworn in on their own. Becca Caldwell, Director of AEDC’s Division of Rural Services, assisted with the ceremony. The Division of Rural Services strives to assist citizens of rural Arkansas through in-house grant programs, funding opportunity research, information-sharing and educational opportunities through regional forums and the annual Arkansas Rural Development Conference. The

Check out the new edition of the Timber Trends newsletter to see the latest news and developments in Arkansas' timber industry.

The Little Rock Regional Chamber and Entergy Arkansas announced the completion of its Select Site certification for a new 875-acre industrial megasite located on the southeastern portion of the Port of Little Rock. Officials, including Danny Games, Jay Chesshir, Congressman French Hill, Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, Jr., Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde, and leadership from the Little Rock Port Authority were on hand to celebrate this achievement. “In Arkansas, we are prioritizing the development of shovel-ready sites to attract top-tier companies to our state,” said Clint O'Neal, CEcD, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “The Little Rock Port Megasite will be a significant asset for the State of Arkansas as we pursue economic development prospects, and Entergy’s ‘Select Site’ certification positions it as a location that meets the qualifications that site selectors and companies look for in an industrial site.” Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eqWrfpEQ