Business Survey Sees Growing Optimism in Clay County
Results from EDC's Annual Indepth Dialogue with Area Business Executive

The Executive Summary in PDF format (you will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader or a similar program to open this document)


In spite of the nation's economic challenge, Clay County businesses continued to expand in 2010 and are positioning themselves for future growth.

That was one of several surprises in results from the 2010 Business Retention Survey recently released recently by the Clay County Economic Development Council. Based on confidential discussions with 78 Clay County company leaders, the in-depth interview with area executives found growth throughout the county.

W. Christian Sizemore, EDC director of business development, noted the Business Synchronist Information System is used in 39 states. “We do this to help businesses in Clay County and help them expand,” he said. “It provides national data to benchmark our progress in Clay County.”

Among the most notable findings was a significant expansion of investment in new technology among companies of all sizes. Some 80 percent of the businesses reported an increase in their investments in technology from 2009 and said the county’s technology infrastructure helps them meet their needs. Areas of emerging technology included everything from robotics to nanotechnology and telemedicine.

Another trend involved increases in both local and national market shares. International business shares by local firms did show a slight decrease, though the previous two years had seen increases.

Business executives continue to give Clay County high marks as a place to do business.  A diverse economy, location, workforce, educational system, population growth, quality of life, and community pride continue to be identified as primary strengths, followed closely by stability of business ownership and management, low cost of living, cooperation, and a low crime rate.

The quality of public services rated high among existing industries. One hundred percent of the ratings for police and fire protection were above average to excellent. Areas of concern centered on public transportation and property tax assessment, with a continued request for coordinated county/city planning. Schools and the entire educational system continue to receive very high evaluations.