That was the resounding message at Hempstead Hall on Thursday as community leaders, elected officials, and investors gathered to celebrate a major milestone for the region. During a special luncheon, the Hempstead County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC) announced that Hope and Hempstead County have officially received the Competitive Community Initiative (CCI) Designation from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC).
This prestigious recognition places Hope and Hempstead County on a very short list, making it one of only ten communities in the entire state of Arkansas to hold this status.
HCEDC President Anna Powell opened the ceremony by recognizing the large crowd of stakeholders, noting that the designation validates years of intentional work and collaboration.
"This recognition affirms that our community is not just planning for growth, but we are actively pursuing it," Powell said. "Being named as a Competitive Community tells industry, site developers, investors, and consultants that Hempstead County is ready. We are ready to compete, ready to grow, and ready to support creation and private investment."
Powell also gave special recognition to her predecessor, Steve Harris, who initiated the rigorous application process, and to HCEDC Program Coordinator Brandi Tuttle, who worked diligently to help the county cross the finish line.
Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald took the podium to commend the area’s leadership. McDonald highlighted the vital importance of rural Arkansas, calling small towns the "backbone of this country" and the "foundation of our culture."
"Every community we serve in Arkansas is really special," McDonald said. "But when we get to help an existing company be a part of a community... it’s extra special for us."
McDonald noted the region's recent economic momentum, citing $200 million in capital investment since 2022. He also reflected on Hope’s unique legacy of producing national leaders and innovators, from President Bill Clinton to audio pioneer Paul Klipsch.
Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of AEDC, followed McDonald to explain the mechanics and significance of the CCI designation. He emphasized that "economic advancement doesn't happen by accident," but requires a strategic focus on four pillars: product readiness, workforce development, economic development organization, and economic development funding.
"When a company wants to look around the country for a best site to do business, they care about de-risking the evaluation process," O’Neal explained.
By completing the CCI process, Hope and Hempstead County have effectively "de-risked" the area for potential industries. It signals to site selectors that the necessary infrastructure is in place, the workforce pipeline is established, and the local leadership is united.
Mayor Don Still welcomed the crowd earlier in the event, thanking the state officials for their continued attention to Southwest Arkansas and the partnerships that made the day possible.
The presentation included a video showcasing the county’s industrial assets, highlighting 78 acres of prime industrial land ready for immediate development and over 1,500 acres of developable land total, along with the area's superior logistical advantages through rail and highway connectivity.
With the CCI designation now official, Hope and Hempstead County have solidified their reputation as a top-tier location for future economic opportunities.
