Clear skies. Low 46F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..
Clear skies. Low 46F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Updated: December 30, 2024 @ 5:07 pm
The last few weeks of the year are often a time for reflection. This year has been an exciting one of growth and business development within this city of Palestine and it is largely thanks to Palestine Economic Development Corporation.
PEDC is a Type B Texas economic development corporation established under the Development Corporation Act of 1979. This department, within the city of Palestine, oversees economic development, business recruitment, retention and expansion. The PEDC Board, established by state law and appointed by the mayor and city council, provides governance and policy direction for the economic development of Palestine.
“Our mission is to have a positive impact on the community,” said Christophe Trahan, Economic Development Director for PEDC. “We really feel like that impact is coming to the surface more than ever and what’s truly exciting is seeing the community buying in and benefiting as stakeholders of our broader strategic plan. At its core, economic development is really a larger, team effort with our friends and neighbors.”
The Palestine Economic Development Corporation manages several programs throughout the year to support investment in the region. The staff, board of directors, and community partners bring in new businesses while helping local entrepreneurs and leaders grow. Here are a few highlights from 2024 that were made possible by PEDC’s partners, city leaders, the Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce, business owners and countless others who are proud to call Palestine home.
New businesses
PEDC works with franchise owners and large companies to bring new businesses to the region. These stores and restaurants create jobs and improve the quality of life for residents. Here are a few businesses that opened in 2024:
– LS Tractor
– Aldi
– Marshalls
– Ross
– 7 Brew Coffee
– Ulta Beauty
– Smoothie King
“PEDC loves local business owners and is excited that Palestine is receiving national attention from major brands,” Trahan said. “This is a desirable and profitable place to be. The PEDC would like to extend a special acknowledgment to LS Tractor, Texas Futura and Callizo Aromas, businesses we were proud to directly assist in establishing their presence here in Palestine. The staff at PEDC is happy to help any business move to the region and establish its headquarters in Palestine.”
Businesses under construction
This year was a great year for new businesses to open in Palestine, and there’s no indication that this momentum will slow in 2025, Trahan said. There are several new businesses currently under construction in the region, many of which will be significant job creators when they open. A few notable companies we are looking forward to celebrating in 2025 include:
– CHRISTUS Emergency Hospital Campus
– Aspen Dental
– Urgent Care
– Parachute Plasma Donation Center
– Thorough Foods Company
“Our population is growing and the workforce is changing,” Trahan said. “New residents are attracted to the high quality of life in Palestine and they’re bringing their skills and experience with them, and residents have more opportunities than ever to learn new skills and trades in order to land their dream jobs. Skilled labor is an appealing factor to any business looking to expand.”
PEDC continues to invest in the community
“External investment is exciting, but one of PEDC’s core tenets is to help existing local businesses grow,” Trahan said. “One key resource to do this is our grant programs, which support downtown revitalization and community development.”
For Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-2024, PEDC awarded $250,000 to various downtown businesses and organizations for improvements. A few businesses that benefitted include:
– Dogwood Embroidery
– Home Grill Steakhouse
– Palestine Theatre
– The Historic Palestine Event Center
– Thorough Foods Company
For FY24-25, Trahan said PEDC has already committed to distribute $180,000 in grants. Keep an eye out for improvements at these local businesses:
– Kim’s Convenience Stores – Corporate Office
– Pint and Barrel
– Redlands Hotel
– Warren’s Barber Shop
– Palestine Resource Center
“PEDC can’t wait to showcase these businesses and the improvements they make, Trahan said. “Not only do these upgrades and renovations make the customer experience more enjoyable, but they also make Palestine more appealing to visitors and potential businesses that decide to move here.” Additionally, the Community Development Grant contributed to improving the Upper Lake Trail and supported the Parks Department in funding the new concrete walking path at Reagan Park. These improvements directly support the quality of life of residents.
PEDC supports entrepreneurs through education
Small business owners and entrepreneurs need diverse skill sets to succeed. Along with industry and operational knowledge, they have to develop marketing skills, accounting know-how, and even a basic legal foundation to run their organizations. PEDC supports the continued education of local business owners through free and affordable seminars hosted year-round. A few of the classes held this year included:
– Social Media Marketing
– Business Ready Set Go
– How the SBA Can Help You Start & Grow Your Business
– Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
– SBA Federal HUBZone and TXDOT Overview
– Streamline Your Strategy: Creating Engaging Content in Minutes with AI
“PEDC often promotes these seminars ahead of time to help entrepreneurs decide if the training opportunity is a good fit.,” Trahan said. “Along with these educational seminars, PEDC also held a lender’s roundtable with local banks to discuss funding for small businesses and also sponsored the Express Management Essentials training program. No matter how long you have been in business, there is always something to learn.”
PEDC made strong through board involvement
According to Trahan, PEDC is supported and led by a diverse board consisting of active community members and business leaders.
“The PEDC would like to offer a special thank you to Linda Dickens, an outgoing board member who has brought her vital perspective as a longtime downtown business owner to the board for many years. We appreciate your service and all of your contributions,” Trahan said. “Ernie Williams is stepping in as our newest board member. Ernie is a local businessman who owns and operates a local insurance agency and is an active philanthropist in the Palestine and Anderson County communities. We can’t wait to work alongside you in 2025.”
Get involved with PEDC in 2025
“This year-end review highlights just how involved PEDC is with the local business community,” Trahan said. “Potential employers, existing businesses, and new entrepreneurs all receive support from this team. Whether you run a national chain that is considering an expansion to the area or want to turn your home business into a storefront, the PEDC team is here to support you.
“Follow PEDC into 2025 and beyond. Stay up to date with classes, networking opportunities, and grant windows that can help you succeed. As a community, the City of Palestine can keep growing and make this part of Texas a great place to live.”
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