2010 Annual Report
Message from WTIA’S Executive Director
Are we there yet? This question easily pertains to the question of: have we finally come out of the recession? I know everyone wants to be through with the recession, but wishing and being are definitely two different things. We are experiencing an upward shift in activity, but still have a lot of work to do to restore economic stability in the region. The number of RFPs (requests for proposals) from companies has been on the increase since last summer. A large number of these inquiries are from foreign companies, and are interested in experiencing the pro-business climate that we have in Tennessee. Our goal is to have West Tennessee communities ready to compete in the global market.
The staff and Executive Committee members have been diligently evaluating all our programs and efforts to better serve the members of the Association. We are asking our partners and allies to continue to give us their ideas and observations regarding our efforts, as we continue to focus on the core competencies and mission of our Association. With renewed attention being given to the identification of potential prospects that are best suited for our region, the staff and I will strive to enhance economic development opportunities for West Tennessee communities. Without a doubt, a niche for WTIA has been working with the smaller capitalized projects, and we will continue to work with our allies and existing companies to identify and foster these prospects.
We are committed to assisting our allies in all aspects of community preparedness. Constant review of marketing materials, websites and other economic development tools will be conducted by the WTIA staff. When we aren’t talking with site selection consultants and company officials, we intend to be working with your community leaders. We want to make sure everyone understands the process of economic development and has full access to all the resources needed to be successful in growing their communities.
In recent meetings with economic development groups it is apparent that there are many challenges ahead for 2011. A new state administration, new state legislators, changes in federal funding and programs all mean that we must continue to work together as a cohesive region. We must leverage the assets of West Tennessee like never before. I’m confident that we will rise to the challenges and true opportunities that are before us. Declining inventories, idle corporate cash, and growing demand for manufactured products will present us with many options. We will commit to you that your communities will be ready and able to respond to the opportunities that we can introduce to them.
This is a time for cooperation, innovation and focus. Thank you for investing in West Tennessee by being an active participant in your Association. Remember, together we all prosper.