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Economic Development
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Business, economic and workforce development are important priorities for the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and the governments of Bristol Tennessee and Virginia. Local government is continually forming initiatives regarding the area’s growth. New industrial parks are bringing large manufacturers to this area and small business is seeing increased growth in the region. Also, downtown Bristol is in the process of growing and utilizing buildings for more developed retail, office space and loft living.

The Bristol Business Resource Center is a one-stop center comprised of seventeen service providers. Each of these partners work together to assist business owners and to enhance industrial and business opportunities in the area.

The Business and Industry Council is another initiative of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce. The program provides training opportunities for local businesses and industries. Workshops and seminars are designed to address current training needs.

Utility providers in Bristol TN/VA help drive economic growth and sustain the quality of life in the region with outstanding track records. A strong emphasis is places on safety, efficiency and convenience in providing important wastewater and electricity services to residents.

Numerous products that are used around the world are manufactured in Bristol. These include compressors, pharmaceuticals, coated fabrics, packaging and bottle lids. International and domestic companies that compete globally in various market segments have not only chosen to locate in Bristol because of the quality of life in the region, but also because of the quality of the workforce. The MountainStates World Trade Center provides industries the ability to export their goods around the world.

Manufacturing and industrial growth are vital to the life of any community and Bristol possesses a diverse industrial base. Bristol’s infrastructure enables existing companies to continue to grow and offers new companies opportunities for relocation or expansion.

Bristol is not only the home of many large corporations, but it is also the home to numerous small businesses. More than 80% of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce’s membership is made up of small businesses. The growth of the entrepreneurial spirit of small business in Bristol is a testament to the viability of the community and the growth potential in the region.

Small business owners are seeing their dreams manifested in Bristol while simultaneously providing the area with a diverse selection of products and services.

Financial institutions also provide the necessary financial tools to continue business growth and to support a thriving community. Several local banks are headquartered in the region, and numerous national and regional banks also offer both traditional and extended banking services for individuals, businesses and industries. National investment firms are also located in Bristol. 

Other businesses with a strong presence in the area include cellular phone companies, computer technology & software service companies, insurance agents and providers, attorneys, and national and local real estate firms

Bristol Tennessee and Bristol Virginia Schools Systems offer outstanding educational programs that prepare students for post-secondary training and the workforce. Numerous Technical Programs, Community, and four year Colleges in the University are located within thirty miles of the Bristol area. Each institution focuses on developing a workforce ready to meet the needs of businesses and industries in our region.

Economy - Bristol, Tennessee

Economy - Bristol, Virginia

Unemployment Rate 5.3%

 Unemployment Rate 5.2%

Recent Job Growth -1.55%

Recent Job Growth 2.15%

Future Job Growth 0.07%

Future Job Growth -2.80%

Household Income $33,854

Household Income $29,750

Income per Cap. $19,747

Income per Cap. $18,825

LABOR FORCE

 

 

 

Sullivan County, TN
 (2005 Average)

 

Washington County, VA
 (2005 Average)

 

 

Labor Force 71,550

 

 

Labor Force 26,163

 

 

Employment 67,780

 

 

Employment 24,983

 

 

Unemployment 3,770

 

 

Unemployment 1,150

 

 

Percent Unemployment 5.3

 

 

Percent Unemployment 4.4