Value Propositions Attracting Businesses to Johnson City, TN
Johnson City is attracting attention from companies nationwide thanks to its dynamic business climate. USA Today even ranked it as the Best Place to Live in Tennessee.
“We’ve been discovered,” says Bob Cantler, president and CEO of the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. “Individuals and companies are moving here for our strong health care, diverse dining scene, comfortable cost of living, lack of state income tax and much more.”
Here are some facts about Johnson City’s business climate that those considering investing in the area should know.
In This Article
Young Professional Paradise
Cantler says Johnson City is becoming a hot spot for young professionals. Why? Picture this: working amidst the stunning scenery of the Appalachian Mountains, with live music venues, trendy restaurants and craft beverage spots nearby. Pro tip: Go to the Windsor Speakeasy, where a vending machine just might transport you somewhere else.
For remote workers, places like Spark Plaza and Sync Space provide coworking spaces and community networking opportunities.
“We have great broadband here, too,” Cantler says.
Magnet for Talent
ETSU and Milligan University provide the region with a rich pool of diverse talent. Milligan offers a strong liberal arts education, emphasizing scholarship, community and faith. Meanwhile, ETSU boasts a comprehensive range of programs, including in health care, computer science, business, education and the arts.
“A great company headquartered in Johnson City is ActionVFX, which is involved with film and TV special effects, and it grew out of the ETSU Digital Media Department,” Cantler says.
Support for Entrepreneurs
More innovative startups are finding success in Johnson City. In fact, the local entrepreneur scene consisted of about eight startups 10 years ago, and more than 70 have found success since then – mostly in the last two to three years. The Johnson City Chamber offers support for entrepreneurs, and so does a local nonprofit called FoundersForge, which provides free business coaching along with connections to local, state and national entrepreneur support organizations.
Downtown Development
Downtown Johnson City is a revitalized gem. Stroll down Main Street and you’ll find everything from trendy boutiques and art galleries to cozy coffee shops and craft breweries. “Our downtown has focused on historic preservation, walkability, cultural events and upper floor living, all of which have served as a catalyst for economic success,” Cantler says. “With emerging development, we have gone from just one brewery and five restaurants, and now we have five breweries and 30 restaurants.”
Growing Industrial Park
Washington County Industrial Park offers compelling advantages for companies seeking a strategic location. Situated within both an Opportunity Zone and an Enhanced Enterprise Zone, the park provides significant financial incentives. With shovel-ready sites available, businesses can expedite development and join a thriving ecosystem that includes global manufacturers like Ebm-papst, Koyo/JTEKT and Sungwoo Hitech.
Get to Know Johnson City, TN
Want to learn more about living and working in Johnson City, TN? Check out the latest edition of Livability Johnson City, Jonesborough-Washington County, TN.