Cool in Clark County
SWARIA member Hempstead County chosen for initiative
NATIONAL HARBOR, MARYLAND – SWARIA member Hempstead County, AR was represented at the 2026 SelectUSA Investment Summit recently.
Hempstead County Economic Development Corporation was chosen to participate in SelectUSA’s “Invest in Rural America” initiative, one of three Southwest Arkansas communities connected through the Southwest Arkansas Development Alliance, on one of the nation’s largest stages for international investment and economic development.
Hosted by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the SelectUSA Investment Summit brings together investors, business leaders and economic developers from across the globe to discuss opportunities for growth in the United States.
Anna Powell of Hempstead County Economic Development Corporation said the event gave Southwest Arkansas an opportunity to challenge outdated assumptions about rural communities. “People are often surprised by the level of activity and momentum happening across Southwest Arkansas,” Powell said. “There is innovation happening here. There are partnerships happening here. There are communities investing in themselves and preparing for growth. Events like SelectUSA give us a chance to make sure those conversations are happening on a national and international level.” Anna serves as the
current President of the Southwest Arkansas Development Alliance.
Regional leaders say the summit continues building momentum for Southwest Arkansas as communities work together through partnerships like the Southwest Arkansas Development Alliance to strengthen workforce development, infrastructure, housing and regional marketing efforts.
Westerman completes Mid-South Basic Economic Development Course
LITTLE ROCK, AR – Arkadelphia Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce Director of Workforce Development, Donald Westerman, recently completed the Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s Mid-South Basic Economic Development Course (MSBEDC) in Little Rock!
