Economic Development

The Sevier County Economic Development Department works to improve the local economy through community and economic development projects. The department is funded through partnerships between UA Cossatot and the City of De Queen, Sevier County, and the FRIENDS Foundation.

For more information, contact Economic Development of Sevier County, at 870-584-1184.

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The FRIENDS foundation was established in 2020 to accomplish economic and community development goals for Sevier County, Arkansas. This organization is intended to provide an outlet for community partners to participate in economic growth initiatives and projects managed by the Sevier County Director of Economic Development. Funding provided to this organization will be used for salary and benefits paid to the Director of Economic Development, site selection initiatives, training and networking opportunities, community outreach, business retention and expansion, and various projects that relate to economic growth for Sevier County.

This foundation was established to provide opportunities for community partners to make tax-deductible donations to support community and economic development projects in Sevier County. Donations will be used to create a sustainable budget that will allow the department to achieve goals and continue to support the growth of Sevier County.

FRIENDS Summary & Successes

FRIENDS Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

Approved minutes from monthly board meetings and annual member meetings are posted below.

SBA Community Navigator Pilot Program

Through the Community Navigator Pilot Program, SBA engages with states, local governments, SBA resource partners, and other organizations in targeted outreach for small businesses in underserved communities.

The program offered funding to nonprofits, state and local governments, universities, and tribal entities to partner with SBA at a hub and spoke network center. These hubs then support said organizations -- trusted, culturally knowledgeable local groups and individuals -- who will connect to specific sectors of the entrepreneurial community to assist in an economic recovery, including:

• Financial assistance and access to capital
• Contracting and procurement
• Marketing, operations, business development, and exporting
• Industry-specific training

See the services and events the Sevier County Community Navigator Network is providing at our website:

Community Navigator Network Spoke Partners