Greater Memphis Chamber Engages in Productive Dialogue with Tennessee Leadership
The Greater Memphis Chamber recently undertook a momentous trip to the state capital, Nashville, demonstrating the strengthening of relationships and fostering of understanding between the state’s prominent cities. During the annual Mem2Nash conference held on Feb. 21, Memphis leaders and business luminaries assembled with state representatives and cabinet members to discuss a spectrum of pressing subjects.
Public Safety Front and Center
One of the focal points during the conference was the wholistic approach to public safety. Memphis Chamber president and CEO, Ted Townsend, recognising the complexity of the challenge, accentuated that viable resolutions would require a tapestry of multilayered initiatives, intertwining both local and state support.
Public safety is not just a trending topic; it holds significant sway over the business community. The chamber along with members of its Chairman’s Circle had proactively approached Governor Bill Lee on safety matters and their impact on Memphis’s business landscape. Anticipating a variegated roadmap of solutions, Young, Townsend, and other community leaders will continue their interactions with Gov. Lee.
Tangible Returns from the Conference
Townsend noted a discernible change in conversations and interest towards Memphis and its potential. The region’s cost of living, diversity of workforce, and strategic location as a logistics hub have markedly increased queries from corporations keen to expand or establish their base in the vicinity.
Simultaneously, some other regions are observing a certain ‘fatigue’ in prospective expansion, which is strengthening Memphis’s appeal to investors. Memphis’s narrative, both its strengths and challenges, was effectively communicated, engendering concrete expectations from both ends — Memphis envisions ongoing state-led safety initiatives, while the city continues to position itself as a chief contributor to the state’s economy.
Boosted Economic Development Funding in Shelby County
Stuart McWhorter, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) Commissioner, remarked that Shelby County has seen unprecedented investment projects since Gov. Bill Lee took office in 2019. McWhorter further stressed the importance of a two-way dialogue to improve cognition of the ground reality and enable programs that propel Shelby County towards its goals.
The TNECD is particularly focused on programs that provide funds for mobility research and development – a strategic move especially considering the BlueOval City investment in Haywood County. This investment should create significant opportunities and avenues for other counties, and McWhorter believes that more initiatives like these can help propel the state towards new economic highs.
Pivoting Towards Childcare and Workforce Development
Another noteworthy component of the conference was the discourse on childcare and workforce development. Department of Human Services Commissioner Clarence Carter shared his department’s ongoing mission to provide greater pathways for Tennessee’s workforce, reducing dependence on public assistance. Carter also stressed the need for improved systems that harmonize work-family balance and retain family cohesiveness. His vision is to test out new models, such as an onsite childcare facility at workplaces, to bridge the work-family gap.
To summarize, it was clear that this year’s Mem2Nash conference allowed the Greater Memphis Chamber and its members to articulate their visions, challenges, and propositions effectively. The ongoing dialogue fosters a better understanding and holds promise for significant changes in the future that may well transform the city and region into an attractive hub for businesses.
