Athens Economic Development Corporation
Athens Economic Development Corporation
Contact: Donna Meredith
201 West Corsicana Street, Ste. 3
Athens, TX 75751
Phone: 903-675-4617
www.athenstexasedc.com
ABOUT THE ATHENS EDC
The Athens EDC is dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment in Athens, Texas. By leveraging the city’s strategic location, affordable living, and skilled workforce, the EDC aims to attract new businesses and support existing ones.
With a focus on community well-being and economic growth, the Athens EDC works collaboratively with local partners to enhance the quality of life for residents while driving job creation and sustainable development.
THE ATHENS ADVANTAGE
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
Athens seamlessly blends small-town charm with economic opportunity. Known as the black-eyed pea capital of the world and the birthplace of the hamburger, Athens boasts a vibrant community with a rich history. Family-friendly attractions, including the East Texas Arboretum, the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, and the Cain Center enhance quality of life, making Athens an appealing destination for new residents and businesses alike.
With a Cost of Living Index of 81.5, living in Athens is more economical than in many larger cities. Trinity Valley Community College and the Athens Independent School District provides quality education, while UT Health East Texas and CHRISTUS Health offer advanced healthcare services.
Over 75 percent of residents own homes, and the local housing market caters to various preferences. Athens boasts a friendly, community-oriented culture with numerous recreational opportunities, making it an ideal place to live and work.
STRATEGIC LOCATION
Athens, Texas, offers a competitive edge for businesses with its prime location and excellent access to major transportation routes. Situated one hour southeast of Dallas on U.S. Highway 175, the city is well-connected to key highways, including Interstate 45 and Interstate 20. Athens features a convenient loop for quick access to the Industrial Park, enhancing operational efficiency.
With proximity to major cities like Tyler (35 miles) and the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex (72 miles), Athens is ideally situated for business growth. The Port of Houston and the Dallas Logistics Hub are also within a manageable distance, while Athens’s own airport accommodates business jet services, ensuring comprehensive connectivity.
THE WORKFORCE
Athens boasts a diverse and talented workforce supported by local colleges and universities that produce skilled graduates committed to excellence. Institutions like Trinity Valley Community College (TVCC) and the University of Texas at Tyler provide a steady pipeline of well-educated professionals across various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.
Additionally, the Workforce Solutions East Texas Center offers valuable training programs and resources for both employers and job seekers, ensuring businesses can access the skilled talent necessary for growth.
ECONOMIC GROWTH INCENTIVES
The Athens Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) offers a variety of economic growth incentives to foster development and support local businesses. Key programs include the AEDC Startup Grant, designed to encourage new businesses in brick-and-mortar locations, and the Business Assistance Grant, which provides matching funds for property improvements. Chapter 380 Economic Development Agreements enable the city to offer loans and grants for commercial and residential projects.
Other incentives include a Freeport Tax Exemption for goods held in the state for a short period, property tax rebates, and access to Small Business Administration loans. The expansion of Athens’ Foreign Trade Zone allows businesses to defer duties on goods traded internationally, further enhancing the city’s appeal as a business destination.
