Community Spotlight: Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Aerial view of a small city with a historic courthouse featuring a white dome, surrounded by trees, low-rise buildings, and a tall office building in the background on a sunny day.

Murfreesboro is a city on the rise. Located just 35 miles southeast of Nashville, this dynamic Middle Tennessee hub blends a rich history with modern energy and rapid growth. Once the capital of Tennessee (1818-1826) and now one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, Murfreesboro has become a destination for families, students, entrepreneurs and […]

Community Spotlight: Columbia, Tennessee

A woman riding a brown horse waves during a parade on a sunny day. Other riders and spectators line the street, and a white building with a clock tower is visible in the background.

Located just 45 miles south of Nashville, Columbia, Tennessee, is a community on the rise, where history meets innovation and small-town charm blends seamlessly with big-city potential. With a population of nearly 48,000, Columbia boasts a vibrant town square that serves as the heart of the community, featuring beloved local favorites like Muletown Coffee and […]

7 Scariest Places in Tennessee

A large, beige prison building with barred windows stands in front of a parking lot. An American flag flies on a pole, and misty, tree-covered hills rise in the background.

Tennessee is known for its whiskey, bustling music scene and beautiful scenery, but did you know it’s also known for being one of the most haunted states in the country? In the spirit of Halloween, take a look at seven of the scariest places in Tennessee.   Tennessee State Prison Nashville, TN Video Credit: TNECD […]

TNECD Celebrates National Black Business Month with Nine Regional Visits

Uncle Nearest

TNECD Commissioner McWhorter to make nine stops statewide recognizing and celebrating Black-owned businesses across Tennessee  NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) announced today that during the month of August, which is National Black Business month, TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter will be making stops across the state to recognize […]

Community Spotlight: Jonesborough, Tennessee

A small-town main street lined with brick buildings, American flags, parked cars, trees, and a white clock tower in the background under a clear sky.

Founded in 1779, Jonesborough proudly claims the title of the oldest town in Tennessee, which predates Tennessee’s statehood. It is infused with a sense of heritage that resonates through its well-preserved architecture and storied streets. Originally a vital hub for pioneers and settlers, Jonesborough played a pivotal role in the westward expansion, witnessing firsthand the […]

Celebrate Women’s History Month in Tennessee

Exhibit display showing a large sepia photo of women suffragists in hats and dresses, with text panels titled “Tennessee” and “Suffragists Statewide,” and historical artifacts displayed in a glass case.

Women’s History Month in March is a great opportunity to reflect on the contributions of women throughout history and to celebrate their achievements, resilience and ongoing impact. In Tennessee, there are countless ways to honor and commemorate the accomplishments of women past and present. Join us as we explore some meaningful ways to celebrate Women’s […]

TNECD Celebrates Tennessee’s Skilled Workforce with Release of “Born to Make”

A group of people stand around a table with industrial automation equipment, working together in a lab setting. One man explains something while others observe and participate, all focused on the machinery.

TNECD’s newest anthem video showcases the state’s workforce, people and brands Video released in tandem with National Career and Technical Education Month NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) released its newest anthem video, “Born to Make,” in conjunction with February serving as National Career and Technical Education (CTE) […]

The Heart of Knoxville: The Love Kitchen Story

Two elderly women wearing glasses and sweaters smile warmly, forming a heart shape with their hands together. The background is plain and softly lit.

In the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee, there exists a place where no one goes hungry, a place where love knows no bounds, a place that has become a haven of warmth, generosity and compassion for so many people, a place called The Love Kitchen. Founded by twin sisters Helen Ashe and Ellen Turner on Valentine’s […]

100-Year-Old Companies: West Tennessee

Four people sit in an old-fashioned, open-top car on a dirt road. Two women are in the back seat, while a man in a hat and another woman sit in front. Trees and a fence are visible in the background.

West Tennessee is a region rich in history, tradition and resilience. It’s also home to some incredible companies that have been thriving for over a century. These legacy businesses have stood the test of time and contributed diligently to the growth and prosperity of their local communities. TNECD is paying tribute to the Volunteer State’s […]