DHC Plans to Pursue CCI Designation

Last week, Arkansas Economic Development Commission Director Matt Twyford, along with South Arkansas Regional Manager Dana Poindexter, presented information on the Competitive Communities Initiative (CCI).

Currently, 11 cities across Arkansas have been designated as CCI communities. The program’s goal is to ensure communities are competitive and prepared when new economic opportunities arise. Through the CCI process, participating communities receive third-party evaluations and guidance to help identify strengths, address gaps, and enhance long-term economic success.

Twyford outlined four key pillars of community development: a strong economic development organization, access to funding, a clear workforce narrative, and product readiness. Poindexter noted that Howard County is already highly competitive within the state and would primarily need to complete the CCI process to earn the designation.

In other updates, Executive Director Vanessa Weeks reported that the SADA – State of the Southwest conference is officially sold out. The event is scheduled for April 10 at 11 a.m. at Midtown Social in Nashville.

Weeks also announced that the Ox Body site has been selected as a Top 2 finalist location for a new corporation. Additionally, the Tyson property successfully passed its Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment with no issues.

Property owner Karter Castleberry attended last week’s meeting and shared that several potential retail and restaurant businesses have expressed interest in locating in Nashville. He added that he looks forward to working with the DHC to support continued growth in Nashville and Howard County.