Small Business Loan Expo spotlights Memphis entrepreneurs and launches “Entrepreneurship City”

July 1, 2025 | News

Memphis is a city built on grit, and nowhere was that spirit more alive than at EDGE’s Small Business Loan Expo, held last Thursday at the Renasant Convention Center in Downtown Memphis. Entrepreneurs, community partners, and city leaders came together for a day...

City of Memphis, EDGE Launch Entrepreneurship City Initiative

June 26, 2025 | News

The City of Memphis and the Economic Development Growth Engine for Memphis and Shelby County (EDGE) today launched a bold new marketing campaign and initiative to support and elevate entrepreneurs across the city. The announcement was made during the third annual...

How Dream Academy Learning Center is empowering Memphis’ next generation

June 13, 2025 | News

In the heart of Memphis, where community meets opportunity, Dream Academy Learning Center is planting the seeds for lifelong success. Founded by veteran educator Alexandria Boddie in 2020, Dream Academy is a preschool with a vision rooted in excellence, equity, and...

Spotlighting Memphis: EDGE co-hosts AEI American Dream Initiative Solutions Summit

June 5, 2025 | News

Memphis made its mark this week as leaders from across the region and country gathered downtown for the American Dream Initiative Solutions Summit, hosted by the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) in partnership with EDGE, the City of Memphis, Start Co., and the...

EDGE honored with national CiCi Award for Community Impact

May 12, 2025 | News

When AAON, Inc. announced in 2024 that it was bringing a $238 million manufacturing facility, and more than 800 jobs, to Memphis, it was a sign of what’s possible when the right project meets the right partners at the right time. For its role in helping bring AAON to...

EDGE Board Approves PILOT Request, Awards Two ICED Loans

April 16, 2025 | News

The Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) Board on Wednesday approved a Fast Track PILOT request, and the EDGE Economic Development Finance Committee also approved two Inner City Economic Development (ICED) Loans to small business owners. These items advance...

ICED Loan recipient Café Noir brings books, coffee, and community to the Edge District

April 14, 2025 | News

Economic development thrives when small businesses have the support they need to grow and succeed. EDGE’s Inner City Economic Development (ICED) Loan program is designed to help entrepreneurs revitalize spaces, create jobs, and contribute to the vibrancy of Memphis...

ICED Loan recipient Hard Times Deli brings big flavor to the Edge District

April 10, 2025 | News

Memphis’ culinary scene just got a major upgrade with the grand opening of Hard Times Deli, the city’s newest sandwich shop that’s already making waves in the Edge District. Located at 655 Marshall Avenue, this new venture from Harrison Downing, Cole Jeanes, and...

Leadership Memphis Executive Program explores economic growth and innovation

March 12, 2025 | News

In February, the Leadership Memphis Executive Program held its economic development session to discuss strategies for driving sustainable economic growth. The class, hosted by International Paper, featured insightful presentations from Dr. Joann Massey and Ernest...

EDGE Board Approves Amendments to PILOT Agreements, Awards Three ICED Loans

March 3, 2025 | News

The Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) Board on Monday approved amendments to two payment-in-lieu-of-tax (PILOT) agreements, supporting continued investment in Memphis. The EDGE Economic Development Finance Committee also approved three Inner City Economic...