The EDGE Board approved an amendment to the lease held by Enterprise Products Partners, L.P. at the Port of Memphis. This reinforces the Port’s role as a critical economic asset and supports continued industrial activity and investment along the Mississippi River.

A Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resiliency (C-PACER) financing request was also approved for McLean Partners LLC for up to $11.02 million. This will support the development of senior living communities at 34 McLean Boulevard and 35 and 51 South Barksdale Street in Memphis. C-PACER financing provides access to long-term, fixed-rate capital for energy efficiency, resiliency, and sustainability improvements in commercial properties.

“EDGE is committed to strengthening Shelby County’s economic foundation through strategic, community-centered investments,” said EDGE President and CEO Dr. Joann Massey. “Each incentive approved in today’s EDFC and EDGE board meetings builds a stronger, more competitive Shelby County economy. We are focused on providing resources that help businesses grow, create jobs, and improve quality of life across our region.”

The Economic Development Finance Committee also met and approved Small Business Loans for Destination Education Academy of Memphis, Inc. and Brilliant Minds Childhood Education Center. Through small forgivable loans, the program has invested more than $9 million in Memphis neighborhoods.

Jacolbie Hardy, owner of Destination Education Academy, was awarded a $25,000 Small Business Loan to go toward $60,000 worth of work that includes structural repairs, interior reconfiguration, painting, lighting upgrades, a new emergency entrance, and updated signage. These enhancements will improve the facility’s safety, functionality, and appearance at 4064 St. Elmo.

As the founder of Brilliant Minds Childcare Development Center, Dr. Irma Davis will use an $18,000 Small Business Loan toward work at 1019 Berclair Road that includes new signage, upgraded fencing and lighting, installation of gutters and downspouts, and refreshed landscaping. These funds allow the center to improve and upgrade its exterior while maintaining a safe, welcoming environment and keeping childcare affordable for families. It also supports hiring three additional local, part-time employees.

The post EDGE Board Approves Port Lease Extension and C-PACER Financing, Two Small Business Loans first appeared on Economic Development Growth Engine.

Hosted in partnership with EDGE, Start Co., the City of Memphis, and numerous regional organizations, ACE brought together delegates representing countries throughout North, Central, and South America to explore how regions build economic momentum through infrastructure, innovation, entrepreneurship, workforce development, and strategic partnerships. Throughout the week, Memphis had the opportunity to showcase its global connectivity and the partnerships and strategies helping translate growth into opportunity.

Showcasing Memphis as a global hub
The week began with opening remarks led by City of Memphis Mayor Paul A. Young, U.S. Ambassador Leandro Rizzuto, and OAS Officer in Charge Barbara Kotschwar, and an economic development discussion featuring EDGE President and CEO Dr. Joann Massey, Greater Memphis Chamber Chief Economic Development Officer Gwyn Fisher, and MLGW President and CEO Doug McGowen. Conversations centered on Memphis’ position as a global logistics hub, the importance of infrastructure and utilities in supporting growth, and how partnerships continue driving long-term economic competitiveness.

Throughout the week, delegates experienced firsthand what makes Memphis uniquely positioned at the crossroads of global commerce, innovation, and culture.

A visit to FedEx Headquarters highlighted Memphis’ role in global distribution and supply chain connectivity. Delegates learned more about the Memphis World Hub – the company’s largest global sort facility – and explored how data, logistics, and innovation continue shaping the future of commerce from Memphis to markets around the world.

The group also visited the FedEx Institute of Technology at the University of Memphis, where discussions focused on applied research, emerging technologies, and other efforts helping strengthen the region’s innovation economy.

Innovation, entrepreneurship, and community impact
ACE programming also highlighted Memphis’ broader innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. At Epicenter, delegates explored how Memphis is helping founders build and scale businesses through mentorship, strategic support, and ecosystem partnerships. Conversations focused on emerging industries, including logistics and medical devices, while emphasizing the role entrepreneurship plays in strengthening long-term economic growth. The Innovation Exchange Coalition Showcase further connected global leaders with founders and innovation ecosystem partners working to drive collaboration across borders.

Healthcare and community impact were also central themes throughout the week. Delegates visited St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to hear from hospital leadership about global pediatric research, innovation, and long-term strategic growth. At the National Civil Rights Museum, conversations explored the lasting connection between civil rights, social justice, and economic mobility, reinforcing how opportunity and economic development are deeply interconnected.

Place-based investment in action
In addition to Memphis’ major institutions and industries, ACE highlighted how place-based investment strategies are shaping neighborhoods and commercial corridors across the region.

Delegates explored the Memphis Medical District, Downtown Memphis, and Crosstown Concourse to better understand how infrastructure, healthcare, housing, entrepreneurship, arts, and public investment can work together to create connected communities. Visits also included The Works’ neighborhood development initiatives and Northside Square, demonstrating how community-led investment strategies can support housing, workforce pathways, and long-term neighborhood revitalization.

The week also expanded beyond Memphis through visits focused on agriculture innovation and rural economic development, including Rose Creek Farms and Somerville, Tennessee, where delegates learned more about food systems, local entrepreneurship, and rural economic opportunity. Additional programming highlighted workforce development and STEM education through Code Crew and retail innovation through the Orgill Innovation Center.

Powering progress through partnerships
Throughout the week, Memphis shared its collaborative spirit.

For EDGE, ACE represented an opportunity to demonstrate how we are #poweringprogressthroughpartnerships – bringing together public, private, nonprofit, educational, and community partners around a shared vision for growth.

As delegates departed Memphis, they left with a firsthand look at a city where logistics, entrepreneurship, innovation, and neighborhood investment are interconnected parts of a broader strategy to create long-term opportunity.

The post Memphis welcomes global leaders through the Americas Competitiveness Exchange first appeared on Economic Development Growth Engine.

Hosted at Memphis City Hall, the inaugural event brought together business leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders for a morning of discussion centered on policy, infrastructure, innovation, and civic engagement. Through curated sessions and conversations with city leadership, attendees gained insight into how Memphis is addressing key priorities while strengthening connections across sectors.

The event featured sessions on topics including doing business with the City of Memphis, innovation and artificial intelligence in government, and infrastructure and city operations. Leaders from across city government shared updates and perspectives on how Memphis is approaching operational efficiency, technology, and long-term planning to better serve residents and businesses.

The morning concluded with remarks from Memphis City Council Chairwoman Jana Swearengen-Washington and a keynote conversation with Memphis Police Department Chief C.J. Davis focused on public safety, leadership, and engagement with the business community.

For EDGE, the event reinforced that meaningful progress depends on strong relationships across business, government, and community leadership. That perspective made Dr. Massey’s recognition especially meaningful.

As president and CEO of EDGE, Dr. Massey leads efforts to strengthen economic opportunity through business attraction and expansion, entrepreneurship support, strategic infrastructure, neighborhood reinvestment, and cross-sector collaboration. Under her leadership, EDGE continues advancing initiatives that help create jobs, strengthen commercial corridors, support entrepreneurs, and position Memphis and Shelby County for long-term competitiveness.

The Public Service Leadership Award recognized Dr. Massey’s “outstanding civic leadership and enduring commitment to advancing both community and commerce in Greater Memphis,” a reflection of the community-centered approach that defines both her leadership and EDGE’s mission.

In accepting the award, Dr. Massey reflected on the many forms public service can take and the importance of bringing people together around the shared work of creating opportunity for Memphis. That perspective closely reflects what she has coined as “powering progress through partnerships,” a phrase that has become central to EDGE’s approach to economic development and long-term growth.

The Greater Memphis Chamber’s Chamber Day at City Hall highlighted the value of strong civic leadership and continued dialogue between the public and private sectors as Memphis works to build long-term momentum.

EDGE is proud to celebrate Dr. Massey on this well-deserved recognition and grateful for the many organizations and leaders across Memphis and Shelby County helping create opportunity, strengthen communities, and move the region forward.

The post Dr. Joann Massey recognized with Public Service Leadership Award first appeared on Economic Development Growth Engine.

The event brought together senior executives from across the region for a peer-driven conversation centered on how organizations can strengthen workplace culture, support employee wellness, and build stronger outcomes for both individuals and communities. Through storytelling and discussion, leaders explored the growing connection between organizational health, workforce resilience, and long-term community impact.

Dr. Massey joined a panel alongside leaders from healthcare and industry, including Michael Crystal of Kroger and Monica Wharton of Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, with Sam Coates serving as moderator. Together, the panel explored the importance of partnerships in improving both individual and community well-being and discussed how organizations across sectors can work together to create healthier, more connected communities.

For Dr. Massey, the conversation aligned closely with the work EDGE supports every day across Memphis and Shelby County. Economic development is often associated with jobs, investment, and infrastructure, but strong communities also depend on healthy people and workplaces. Access to opportunity, stable employment, strong neighborhood assets, and community partnerships all contribute to broader quality of life and long-term economic vitality.

Throughout the discussion, panelists emphasized that workforce health is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration across business, healthcare, nonprofit, and civic sectors. That idea reflects how thriving communities are built through partnerships.

At EDGE, this means helping create the conditions where businesses, employees, and neighborhoods can grow together. Through supporting employers, strengthening commercial corridors, encouraging entrepreneurship, or helping attract investment that creates quality jobs, economic growth and community well-being are deeply connected.

The breakfast also reinforced the importance of cross-sector dialogue in addressing some of the region’s most pressing challenges. By bringing together leaders with different perspectives and expertise, the American Heart Association created space for meaningful conversations around workforce health, culture, and community impact.

EDGE is proud to have Dr. Massey represent the organization in conversations that strengthen Memphis and Shelby County. The inaugural Executive Breakfast served as an important reminder that when organizations work together around shared priorities, they can create healthier workplaces, stronger communities, and greater opportunity for all.

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The honor reflects Trey’s ongoing commitment to entrepreneurship, relationship-building, and creating meaningful opportunities for others across our city. Through his work at EDGE, Trey helps support small business owners and entrepreneurs navigating growth, access to capital, and long-term development — particularly within the neighborhoods and commercial corridors that are helping shape Memphis’ future.

Trey works directly with local founders and business owners to connect them with resources, strategic guidance, and programs that help strengthen their businesses and communities. His work reflects the broader mission of EDGE: Creating opportunity through partnerships, investment, and economic growth that is visible and accessible across our region.

Beyond his professional role, Trey is widely recognized for his ability to bring people together, and he consistently leads with authenticity, collaboration, and a strong belief in the potential of others. The Gentlemen’s League recognized Trey for those same qualities, noting his commitment to connecting entrepreneurs, building community, and investing in the next generation. The organization’s focus on leadership, fellowship, and empowerment aligns closely with the work Trey advances every day through his service.

At a time when entrepreneurship continues to play an important role in neighborhood revitalization and economic growth, people like Trey help ensure that business development remains rooted in relationships and community impact. His ability to connect strategy with service has made him a trusted resource to entrepreneurs and a valued member of Memphis’ broader economic development ecosystem.

Congratulations to Trey on this achievement! We are proud of the continued impact he is making through leadership, mentorship, and service.

The post Trey Moore recognized as Gentlemen’s League beta inductee first appeared on Economic Development Growth Engine.

Across Memphis and Shelby County, rebuilding is one of the most direct ways economic development becomes visible in everyday life through reopenings, expanded hours, adding seating, or upgrading equipment to meet growing demand. These improvements often create ripple effects that strengthen the local economy from within.

This is the kind of place-based progress EDGE is designed to support: Helping entrepreneurs reinvest where they are and turning physical improvements into long-term neighborhood momentum.

Creating pathways for job growth
For many small business owners, the need is not a full-scale relocation or major expansion. It’s the practical improvements that unlock the next phase of growth, such as repairing a roof, updating HVAC systems, refreshing interiors, improving accessibility, adding signage, or expanding production space. When those improvements are made, businesses are better positioned to serve customers, extend hours, increase efficiency, and hire additional staff.

That job growth matters because local businesses are powerful engines of neighborhood employment. Small businesses create jobs close to where people live, helping strengthen local labor markets and contributing to more vibrant, walkable commercial districts. When neighborhood businesses thrive, nearby shops and services often benefit as well, creating a reinforcing cycle of economic activity.

Why local ownership matters
When local entrepreneurs are able to improve and expand their businesses, the benefits stay rooted in the community. Revenue circulates locally through payroll, nearby vendors, taxes, and reinvestment in surrounding properties. This multiplier effect strengthens neighborhood economies in ways that outside investment alone can’t always achieve.

This is what makes place-based reinvestment so powerful. The success of a locally owned business creates momentum that extends beyond the individual storefront, encouraging neighboring investment, stabilizing corridors, and strengthening the identity of the neighborhood itself.

How targeted investment accelerates momentum
Programs that support building improvements, equipment upgrades, and site enhancements help lower barriers that often prevent entrepreneurs from moving forward. For neighborhood-serving businesses, access to flexible capital can be the difference between staying in place and scaling up.

At EDGE, this is one of the ways rebuilding translates into measurable community impact. Through our Small Business Loan Program, businesses can access forgivable funding to support improvements that make their spaces safer, more visible, and better equipped for growth. Those investments strengthen the business itself, but they also improve the corridor around it, bringing renewed activity, stronger perception, and additional customer traffic.

A great example is Hard Times Deli in the Edge District. With support, a long-vacant building was transformed into a vibrant, chef-driven destination. The small business loan aided in the launch of a successful business and helped reactivate a corridor, increase foot traffic, and contribute to the energy of the surrounding neighborhood.

Rebuilding signals confidence in place
Rebuilding communicates confidence in the corridor, business owner, and the neighborhood’s future, which encourages additional investment from nearby property owners, neighboring businesses, and community partners. Over time, that momentum helps stabilize commercial districts and makes long-term ownership more sustainable.

The most effective strategies recognize that physical improvements and economic opportunity go hand in hand. When local entrepreneurs have the resources to reinvest where they are, rebuilding becomes a pathway to stronger ownership, neighborhoods, and economic opportunity.

This is why EDGE’s approach extends beyond funding individual projects. By investing in neighborhood-serving businesses across Memphis, the goal is to help strengthen confidence in entire corridors and create momentum that encourages nearby reinvestment.

The post How rebuilding supports jobs and local ownership first appeared on Economic Development Growth Engine.

The EDGE Board of Directors authorized two expansions of existing PILOT agreements and approved a new jobs PILOT to support a growing local manufacturer, reinforcing Memphis’ position as a competitive hub for advanced manufacturing and logistics.

Among the approved items, Mimeo.com, Inc. received an amendment to its existing Expansion PILOT, increasing its total capital investment from approximately $13.5 million to $44.8 million. In addition, Richardson Oilseed Products US Limited received approval to amend its existing Expansion PILOT, increasing its capital investment from $220 million to $340 million at its facility on Williams Avenue. The increased investment reflects additional modernization and infrastructure needs identified during the rehabilitation of the historic site, including significant upgrades to automation, environmental systems, and production capacity. 

The Board also approved an eight-year Jobs PILOT for Morgan Steel, LLC to support the expansion of its Memphis operations at 2315 Pier Street. The project includes a total capital investment of approximately $11.7 million and will create at least 119 new jobs with an average annual salary of $57,973.

“Today’s approvals reflect the continued momentum we’re seeing across Memphis and Shelby County. From supporting small businesses to advancing larger-scale investment through PILOTs, we are collectively working to build a more dynamic and competitive economic landscape,” said EDGE President and CEO Dr. Joann Massey. “Each of these projects represents new opportunities for job creation, entrepreneurship, and long-term growth. Memphis is moving in the right direction, and we’re committed to ensuring that growth is both strategic and impactful for our community.”

The Economic Development Finance Committee also met and approved a $75,000 in forgivable Small Business Loans. To date, the program has invested more than $9 million in Memphis neighborhoods. 

Rhonda Rooks, the founder and owner of Icon Salon Suites, was approved to receive a $25,000 Small Business Loan for improvements to the salon space at 2185 Young Avenue. Funds will be used for build-out and renovation of the building originally constructed in 1957.

Derrick Abdul-Wakil, owner of Wakil Solutions, LLC, will use $25,000 to help with a variety of interior and exterior building interior improvements at 269 South Parkway West. The business is a Memphis–based marketing company dedicated to helping businesses grow through strategic branding, creative content, and targeted digital solutions.

Additionally, Ladarius Lee, founder of Peace Park Memphis, received a $25,000 Small Business Loan to help complete $68,000 of qualified improvements at 275 North Dunlap Street. Peace Park is a restaurant that aims to promote community, love, peace, and respect through food, relationships, charitable events, and donations.

The post EDGE Board Approves Major Investments Supporting Manufacturing Growth and Modernization first appeared on Economic Development Growth Engine.

The evening also served as a powerful reminder that transformational growth is built over time through strategic partnerships.

The momentum that was visible on the St. Jude campus is deeply connected to infrastructure investments made possible through the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, the City of Memphis, TVA, and EDGE. In 2015, a TNECD FastTrack grant administered by EDGE helped fund critical utility and infrastructure improvements in and around the Pinch District adjacent to campus. Those upgrades, including electric, sewer, gas, telecommunications, and stormwater improvements, helped create the conditions for one of the most ambitious expansion periods in St. Jude’s history.

Over the past decade, St. Jude has invested more than $11 billion into its campus, exceeding its original commitment of 1,800 new jobs by creating 2,473 positions from 2015 to 2024. Looking ahead, the recently announced Advanced Research Center II will continue that momentum, with infrastructure upgrades already helping ensure the project can move forward on schedule.

For EDGE, this progress reflects the long-term value of powering progress through partnerships. When public resources, infrastructure planning, and institutional vision align, the result is job creation, neighborhood revitalization, and a stronger future for Memphis.

Discover St. Jude was a meaningful opportunity to see that progress firsthand and celebrate the partnerships that continue to move our city forward.

The post Discover St. Jude highlights the power of long-term partnership first appeared on Economic Development Growth Engine.

Logistics and distribution

Memphis’ logistics ecosystem is one of its defining advantages. With access to major interstate corridors, five Class I railroads, the Mississippi River, and Memphis International Airport, home to FedEx’s global hub, the region serves as a critical distribution node for North America.

The International Port of Memphis, powered by EDGE, plays a central role in this system. Fostering thousands of direct and indirect jobs, the Port anchors industrial development along Presidents Island and surrounding areas. Recent approvals to expand barge and transloading operations along McKellar Lake demonstrate continued demand for multimodal infrastructure and highlight the importance of thoughtful asset stewardship.

Logistics supports manufacturing, retail, energy, and agriculture. In Memphis, it is the connective tissue of the regional economy.

Advanced manufacturing

Manufacturing remains one of the most significant pillars of Memphis’ economy. Companies here produce everything from HVAC systems and medical devices to power transformers and consumer goods. These operations provide quality jobs, strong wages, and stable career pathways.

Through strategic public-private partnerships led by EDGE and regional partners, Hyosung HICO has continued expanding its U.S. manufacturing headquarters in Memphis, investing more than $300 million since 2019 and significantly increasing production capacity. 

Similarly, AAON, Inc. committed to a $238.5 million expansion that will create hundreds of jobs over the coming years, reinforcing Memphis’ role as a hub for advanced HVAC manufacturing. The company’s decision was underpinned by a 15-year Jobs PILOT authorized by EDGE, illustrating how strategic incentive tools can help secure long-term private investment.

These investments strengthen supplier networks, workforce pipelines, and long-term competitiveness.

Healthcare and biosciences

Healthcare is both a major employer and an innovation engine in Memphis. Anchored by world-class institutions and research organizations, the sector supports clinical care, medical device development, and life sciences research.

The presence of global healthcare institutions, combined with medical manufacturing and distribution operations, creates a powerful intersection between health and industry. This ecosystem provides jobs and fosters innovation, attracting researchers, entrepreneurs, and investment to the region.

As healthcare evolves, particularly in areas like biotechnology and medical technology, Memphis is positioned to expand its influence through strategic partnerships and workforce development.

Energy and emerging technology

Energy infrastructure and emerging technologies are adding a new dimension to Memphis’ industrial base. Investments tied to energy storage, advanced power infrastructure, and technology-driven operations reflect a broader shift toward grid resilience and next-generation capacity.

Recent land leases approved by EDGE at the Port of Memphis further illustrate how the region’s industrial assets are evolving to meet emerging economic demands. The Port leased more than 500 acres in Pidgeon Industrial Park to CTC Property to support energy infrastructure connected to a nearby high-performance computing facility. In addition, a lease with Cardinal Energy Storage established a battery storage site adjacent to the development, designed to connect to TVA’s 500kV transmission line and supply power to the grid during peak demand periods. 

Through strategic partnerships, EDGE and the Port Commission are positioning Memphis as a leader in data-intensive industries and enhancing the region’s energy reliability and competitiveness.

A diverse foundation for growth

What sets Memphis apart is not reliance on a single industry but the strength of a diversified portfolio. Manufacturing facilitates logistics, logistics enables healthcare and retail distribution, and energy infrastructure underpins them all.

This diversification creates resilience, allowing Memphis to adapt to changing economic conditions while maintaining momentum across sectors.

As Memphis and Shelby County continue to invest in infrastructure, workforce alignment, and coordinated partnerships, these key sectors will remain central to the region’s growth story. Together, they power an economy rooted in place, driven by people, and positioned for long-term opportunity.

The post Key industries powering Memphis’ economy first appeared on Economic Development Growth Engine.

The board approved the administration of an expanded Port Commission jurisdictional area, subject to final approval by joint resolution of the mayors and legislative bodies of the City of Memphis and Shelby County. The proposed expansion would extend the Port Commission’s territorial limits to include unincorporated Shelby County while excluding areas within the incorporated municipalities of Arlington, Bartlett, Collierville, Germantown and Millington, as well as portions of the City of Memphis along the Mississippi River waterfront.

In a separate action, the EDGE Board approved a request from the City of Memphis to sublease property located in Pidgeon Industrial Park to WeCare Denali, LLC. Under the terms of the sublease, the City of Memphis will remain the primary tenant.

“These approvals reflect how EDGE and the Port Commission are continuing to adapt to the realities of a regional economy,” said EDGE President and CEO Dr. Joann Massey. “By supporting operational efficiencies at port facilities, we are better positioned to drive long-term economic growth and create opportunity across Memphis and Shelby County.”

The board also passed a resolution to adjust Commercial Property Development PILOT Program policies and procedures. These updates clarify and strengthen EDGE’s Community Property Development PILOT Program by aligning eligibility with New Markets Tax Credit guidelines, refining location criteria, and sharpening the program’s focus on owner-occupied, community-serving projects.

The Economic Development Finance Committee also met and approved a $25,000 Small Business Loan. Through small forgivable loans, the program has invested more than $9 million in Memphis neighborhoods. Nicholas Riley, owner of Bad Timing LLC, will use the funds to help with a variety of interior and exterior building interior improvements at 626 Minor Street. The business is a buy, sell, and trade clothing store for vintage and designer finds, and building adjustments will also allow Bad Timing to hire additional employees.

The post EDGE Board Approves Port Jurisdiction Expansion Request and Sublease, One Small Business Loan first appeared on Economic Development Growth Engine.