The Obion County Joint Economic Development Corporation is investing in the small business community by providing training and coaching resources to small business owners through a new partnership with Retail Strategies. Made possible by the Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development’s (TNECD) TN Placemakers grant, the partnership will fulfill the Placemakers vision of supporting and training small businesses by providing access to education, resources, and tools directly to future and existing small businesses and entrepreneurs.
“One of the goals for the Obion County Joint Economic Development Corporation is to become the economic center of Northwest Tennessee,” said Lindsay Frilling, CEcD, chief executive officer at Obion County Joint Economic Development Corporation. “Having access to the Small Business Support program from Retail Strategies allows us to provide crucial training, business coaching, and tools that will allow our local entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and build on the economic engine in the County.”
“The Obion County Joint Economic Development Corporation understands the importance of focusing on both national retailers and local retailers,” said Lacy Beasley, president at Retail Strateiges. “Local retail brings the heart, soul, and character to the community. Entrepreneurs working in their business can be strapped for time and cash investment in technical assistance programs that help them maximize operations and sales. The Obion County JEDC and TNECD are committed to investing back into local business through the TN Placemaker Grant.”
This custom partnership provides live technical assistance, tutorials, deliverables, data, and 1:1 coaching directly to the owners and operators of local businesses and property owners on topics such as digital marketing strategies, restaurant resiliency, retail readiness for property owners, and preparing for special shopping seasons like the holidays.
“Experienced professionals will deliver training and resources focused on online sales, maximizing the holiday season, real estate, research and inventory, and more to the small business owners. We are honored to support the individuals who commit their life to owning and operating small businesses. Their sustainability is vital to the fiber that makes Obion County unique,” finished Beasley.
Photo: Lindsay Frilling, CEO, Obion County Joint Economic Development Corp.