GARNER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
PLANS FOR FUTURE INDUSTRY
Over the past few years , Garner has seen a significant increase in industrial development and demand , leading to several of the Town ’ s business parks being built out . With its eye to the future , the Garner Economic Development Corporation ( GEDC ) has sought ways to help the community ensure there will be areas for industry to locate in Garner .
Jeff Swain , Chairman of the GEDC . “ We want to ensure that our community remains attractive to companies looking to locate in the area by having a mix of options that can suit a wide variety of uses .”
The GEDC hired O ’ Brien Atkins Associates ( OBA ) to identify suitable areas for future business park development . The OBA study was presented to the Town Council and in partnership with the Town of Garner Planning Department , GEDC began working with local property owners to position their real estate for future commercial development .
“ The need for sites is clear . We are seeing our business parks developed out , leaving fewer options for companies to come to Garner ,” said
GARNER ENTREPRENEURS OF TOMORROW
PITCH ANOTHER ROUND OF BUSINESS IDEAS
The second annual Garner Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow Pitch Night was held in May . Before the event , students from Garner high schools spent three months identifying a business idea , crafting a business plan , and preparing a pitch for a panel of three judges from local businesses . The top six students received laptops for their outstanding business ideas .
“ This is just the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey ,” said Garner Economic Development Director Joe Stallings . “ These students represent the future of our town and its small business community .”
This youth entrepreneurship program is made possible by the generous support of the GEDC . “ This program continues to grow and be a driving force in sparking the entrepreneurial spirit in our young adults ,” GEDC Chair Jeff Swain said . “ It was the GEDC ’ s pleasure to support this program and continue to fuel entrepreneurship in our community .”