Productivity & Creativity: Our Members Support Innovation in the Business World

Can you believe we’re this far into spring already? Productivity and creativity are in full swing all over Tennessee, and I recently got to witness how our members facilitate those things.

The TNBA marketing committee held its quarterly meeting at the WK&T campus in Mayfield, Kentucky, where the operations facility has become an important business hub. It was a fitting meeting location for an agenda focusing on small businesses, as WK&T bought the campus to put its separate operating facilities under one roof and to create a small-business incubator. 

Graves County Economic Development President Jason Lemle spoke to our group about the MakeMyMove program, which encourages people to move to Mayfield and Graves County with incentives such as tickets to cultural and sporting events, community memberships, locally sourced eggs and $5,000 cash.

The day continued with a visit to Whippoorwill Manor, a new event venue outside of Mayfield. The beautifully decorated greenhouse has become an event location, and a flower shop, Petals & Posies, fills the renovated barn. In the Whippoorwill marketing toolbox is the WK&T broadband connection, which allows for social media engagement and new leads.

Samatha Wiggins, owner of a food truck and the Jones Farms Dessert Market, served lunch. She uses her broadband connection to get feedback and test new food products on social media. She recently advertised a new sandwich and sold out in 30 minutes.

Throughout the day, TNBA’s marketing committee heard about the small-business spirit. As we celebrate and recognize Small Business Day on May 10, our visit highlighted that spirit. WK&T’s facility proved our community strength when it became a lifeline for the 14 businesses that relocated to the campus after a tornado in late 2021, allowing more than 200 jobs to stay local.

I appreciate WK&T hosting the TNBA marketing committee, and I thank all our members who provide connectivity as a driving force of small business.

Also, don’t forget: We’re in the homestretch for the June 3-5 TNBA Annual Convention and Showcase at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs. Register today!