Gun Barrel City EDC Celebrates Economic Development Week: Progress and Prosperity in Our Community

Located in Texas and just one hour from the DFW Metroplex, Gun Barrel City is the commercial, retail, and entertainment hub of Cedar Creek Lake. Gun Barrel City Economic Development Corporation is proud to celebrate Economic Development Week (EDW) from May 6th - May 10th.  EDW, established by the International Economic Development Council, highlights the importance of economic development in our region and across the globe.

Economic development is crucial to Gun Barrel City’s growth and prosperity. It encompasses various initiatives, from attracting new businesses to supporting existing ones, creating new job opportunities, and enhancing our community's overall quality of life.

"At GBCEDC, we believe economic development is crucial for nurturing vibrant and sustainable communities," said Angela Smith, City Manager/Economic Development Director, Gun Barrel City EDC. "Our work focuses on creating a supportive ecosystem for businesses to flourish, driving economic growth and prosperity across the region."

Understanding the Role of GBCEDC

Economic development is crucial in enhancing Gun Barrel City’s economic well-being, wealth, and overall quality of life. At its core, economic development involves various activities to attract, create, and retain jobs to foster a resilient and growing economy. This collaborative effort requires close coordination between businesses, government entities, and various community stakeholders to achieve sustainable success.

GBCEDC supports businesses in Gun Barrel City. Our services include:

• Business Retention & Expansion (BRE): Support existing businesses to thrive and expand, creating jobs through infrastructure improvements and resource access.
• Marketing & Attraction: Develop and execute campaigns to attract businesses and talent, showcasing community strengths to internal and external audiences.
• Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development: Support small businesses and entrepreneurs with access to capital, space, and technical assistance.
• Real Estate Development: Engage in projects like industrial parks and incubators to stimulate economic growth.
• Incentives: Help businesses access financial services and incentive programs for growth and expansion.
• Workforce Development: Collaborate with agencies to ensure a skilled talent pool, understanding and addressing company workforce needs.

The Role of GBCEDC: What We Do

The Gun Barrel City EDC is dedicated to enhancing residents' quality of life by attracting new investments, supporting the expansion of existing businesses, and offering assistance to eligible companies. We assess incentives for businesses looking to establish or grow in the Gun Barrel City area, considering factors such as sales tax contributions, job creation or retention, wages paid, local procurement, employment growth, and alignment with the EDC's mission.
Particular attention is given to businesses in high-demand sectors such as medical and health, hospitality, retail, food and dining, and distribution. Available funds can be used for land or building leases and purchases, renovations, construction, capital equipment, infrastructure improvements, or employee training. However, funds cannot be allocated for venture or equity capital, working capital or inventory, or personal loans.
Business assistance is provided in various forms, including grants, loans, loan guarantees, and real estate.

GBCEDC: Your Partner in Business Growth and Development

During Economic Development Week and beyond, the Gun Barrel City Economic Development Corporation remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a thriving future for our community. We are excited to continue our work with local leaders and residents to build a strong and resilient economy that benefits everyone. Together, we can achieve great things and ensure a brighter tomorrow for Gun Barrel City. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in making our community a wonderful place to live, work, and grow.