- TNECD to offer retraining and retainment grants following damage from Hurricane Helene
- Three companies in Unicoi County to receive funding
ERWIN, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter announced today the three companies in Unicoi County that will each receive a retainment and retraining grant following the devastation and destruction of Hurricane Helene last September 2024.
In total, the grants represent more than $4 million in funding, with each company receiving at least $1 million that will directly aid in retaining or retraining employees who were previously terminated due to destruction of the company’s facilities.
“Hurricane Helene was an unprecedented disaster for our state, and one year later, many Tennesseans remain forever changed by the loss of life and severe flood damage,” said Gov. Lee. “I’m proud to announce recovery grants for three Unicoi County companies, which will not only help businesses rebuild and restore operations but also provide job security and strengthen the local economy. I’m confident these grants will create lasting relief and renewed opportunity for families and business in the region.”
The affected companies receiving funding are located along the Nolichucky River in the Erwin Riverview Industrial Park and have either not yet restarted their operations or are in the preliminary stages of operating.
“This is the first time TNECD has provided retraining or retention funding after a natural disaster, and I’m grateful to our partners who supported our efforts in making today’s announcement possible,” said Commissioner McWhorter. “I’m incredibly proud of the strength Northeast Tennessee has shown over the past 11 months, and I want to reiterate on behalf of TNECD that we remain committed to supporting our communities, our businesses and Tennesseans however we can.”
The three companies receiving grant funding are:
Foam Products
- No. of retained positions: 47
- Capital investment: $4.4 million
Foam Products Corporation is a leading fabricator and distributor of commercial and industrial foam insulation and packaging products. The company estimates that Hurricane Helene caused approximately $20 million in damages if a total rebuild is needed.
“This grant is an investment in our most valuable asset: our people. It gives us a chance to keep our talented team together and provide the training and stability needed to build their skills. We are grateful to the state for giving us an opportunity to serve our community for years to come.” – Perry Muse, vice president of manufacturing/GM, Foam Products
PlastiExports
- No. of retained positions: 53
- Capital investment: $7.4 million
PlastiExports is a leading plastics company headquartered in Mexico with several locations across North America. After reviewing the damage from Hurricane Helene, the company has realized over $14 million and counting in damages and loss.
“This retraining and retainment grant represents more than just funding – it’s an investment in restoring jobs and revitalizing our community. Every job that we can provide means stability for a household and hope for the future. I am deeply grateful to our local and state economic development teams for making this possible.” – JP Metcalf, Tennessee business leader/partner, PlastiExports
PolyPipe
- No. of retained positions: 66
- Capital investment: $27.1 million
PolyPipe manufactures polyethylene pipe that is used by utilities throughout North America to deliver natural gas to its customers. The company’s Erwin building was completely destroyed by Hurricane Helene.
“The devastation from Hurricane Helene was unlike anything we’ve faced in our company’s history. This grant is not just funding — it’s a lifeline for our employees, our customers and our future here in Erwin. We are deeply grateful for TNECD’s support, which enables us to rebuild with greater strength, speed and innovation. Together, we’re turning a difficult setback into a new opportunity for renewed growth and resilience.” – Mark Brenon, CEO, PolyPipe
This grant represents the first of its kind from TNECD, and the department is currently reviewing other opportunities for financial assistance following Helene’s destruction.
ADDITIONAL QUOTES
“On behalf of Unicoi County, I want to sincerely thank TNECD for standing with our businesses and community during this critical time. Their support not only helps our industrial park recover but also sends a powerful message that when our community faces challenges, we do not face them alone.” – Unicoi County Mayor Garland “Bubba” Evely
“When I ran for mayor, I promised to do my best to bring more jobs and opportunities to our town. Today, seeing our industrial park rebuild stronger than ever proves that promise isn’t just words, it’s happening thanks to the dedication of the business owners, our local economic development team, and the support of the State of Tennessee.” – Erwin Mayor Glenn White
“Rebuilding our industrial park after Hurricane Helene was never guaranteed, and a critical part of this recovery was getting our businesses back to work quickly. Our team made it a priority to restore utilities and essential services, providing businesses with the foundation they needed to restart operations and begin moving forward. Reaching this major milestone is only possible thanks to the resilience of our community and the support of the great State of Tennessee.” – Lee Brown, Chair, and Austin Finch, Executive Director, Unicoi County Economic and Community Development
“These recovery grants are a vital step in helping Unicoi County rebuild stronger after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. I’m proud to stand with our community and support the efforts that will restore homes, businesses and critical infrastructure. This funding is not just about recovery, it’s about ensuring a more resilient future for the people of Unicoi County.” – Sen. Steve Southerland (R-Morristown)
“Our community has shown incredible strength and resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. This first-of-its-kind funding in Tennessee will help 166 employees stay on the job, continue supporting their families and provide these businesses the stability they need to move forward. We’re very grateful to TNECD for their continued support of our region.” – Rep. Renea Jones (R-Unicoi)
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD)
TNECD is the state’s primary agency committed to fostering economic growth through job creation and community development. By attracting new corporate investment and facilitating the growth of existing businesses, the department works to strengthen Tennessee’s competitive landscape. Additionally, TNECD strives to increase the economic prosperity for all Tennesseans by providing grants to communities statewide, helping them to become vibrant, business-friendly environments where companies can flourish. For more information, visit us at tnecd.com. Join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.
TNECD Media Contact
Chris O’Brien
Public Information Officer
(615) 934-5879
[email protected]
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