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Business Retention & Expansion
A majority of job growth occurring in Holmes County is generated from existing business. Possessing the greatest potential for future growth, the Economic Development Council has developed a Business Retention & Expansion (R&E) Program aimed at retaining, protecting and nurturing the local business community and their collective interests. The R&E Program is composed of several elements designed to provide a thorough understanding of the issues confronting the local industry mix. An annual onsite interview conducted by EDC staff, board and volunteers forms the nucleus of the program, allowing executive officers and upper management to explain the state of their business, share future plans, air concerns/needs, and make suggestions for improvement. The result of these personal conversations often prompts action and follow up by EDC personnel. Less exhaustive, but equally important R&E activities include surveys and focus group exercises, administered on an as needed basis. Annually R&E data is collected and analyzed with the findings distributed to participating business constituents, local and regional government agencies, and other public and private entities. These results are used to identify, guide and direct strategic initiatives, including those of the Council. The Council utilizes the R&E results to:
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