What We Do

Purpose of the AEDC

The purpose of the Athens Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) is to promote, assist, and enhance economic development in compliance with legal provisions. The AEDC focuses on business retention, expansion, and attraction to create, expand, or retain primary jobs. It also works on the development, improvement, and maintenance of a positive business environment. Additionally, the AEDC supports community development initiatives that directly benefit business objectives.

Drive Growth

Founded in 1989 after being approved by voters, the AEDC was created to promote the city’s growth. AEDC funds support various business needs, including infrastructure improvements, to help drive long-term economic success in Athens.

Assist Business

The AEDC was instrumental in helping HVAC manufacturing, Inc., move from California to Athens, alleviating the company's heavy tax burden and reducing higher operating costs. Biomerics FMI has been able to expand more than once at its facility in the Athens Industrial park thanks to the efforts of the Athens EDC. Argon Medical has been growing since it moved to Athens in 1981 and the AEDC has helped them by twice providing funds tied to hiring incentives because at the AEDC we believe in helping our existing businesses as well as attracting new ones.

Support the Workforce

The AEDC is committed to supporting the local workforce by addressing critical gaps and providing innovative solutions. A prime example is the Athens Cares: Childcare Workforce Initiative, which was developed to solve a pressing childcare shortage impacting local businesses and families. By partnering with the City of Athens and the Texas Workforce Commission to recruit and train new childcare educators, as well as offering professional development for existing staff, the EDC helped ensure childcare centers can operate at full capacity. This initiative not only helps local businesses retain employees but also strengthens the overall economic stability of the community.